Energy Balance of Ethanol

Ethanol yields more energy than it takes to produce it, which means it has a positive energy balance. Not only is ethanol an efficient fuel, but it is made through an efficient process; it requires less than 35,000 BTUs of energy to turn corn into ethanol, while the ethanol offers at least 77,000 BTUs of energy. Studies show that ethanol has a positive net energy balance. The most recent study, conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, shows that ethanol provides an average net energy gain of at least 77%.