Switchgrass: This hardy native grass is gaining ground as a biofuel feedstock — here’s why.
Tough by Nature
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is a perennial warm-season grass native to North America. It thrives on marginal land, tolerates drought and heat, and requires minimal fertilizer or irrigation — making it a strong candidate for sustainable biomass production.
High Energy Return
It produces six times more energy than is required to grow and harvest it. That energy ratio, combined with its ability to grow in regions unsuitable for food crops, gives it an edge in the bioenergy landscape.
Not Just Ethanol
Switchgrass isn’t just a source of traditional ethanol. It’s being considered for advanced biofuels like isobutanol and even sustainable aviation fuel via alcohol-to-jet pathways.
Drought Dilemma
When grown in drought conditions, switchgrass produces higher levels of compounds like saponins, which inhibit fermentation. That’s why researchers like Trey Sato are digging into how stress conditions affect downstream conversion.
Feedstock of the Future?
As climate change intensifies and the aviation sector looks to decarbonize, switchgrass may become a key player in next-generation fuel production — but only if its biological bottlenecks can be understood and addressed.
“Not all switchgrass is created equal. Drought can change its chemistry — and its value as a biofuel feedstock.” Trey Sato says in When Drought Strikes, Switchgrass Chemistry Shifts
