BioEcoTek-Hawaii (BET) was formed in early 2008 for the express purpose of growing algae and ultimately producing biofuels.  Hawaii was selected for the following reasons:

• - Abundant sunshine - Photosynthesis to grow microalgae
• - Large selection of indigenous algal species.  No gene alteration
• - Supportive political climate.  Hawaii has agressive Renewable Portfolio Standard
• - Highest energy costs in U.S. and National Security concerns
• - Very generous tax credits (Act 221)to develop new technologies
• - Local expertise - Hawaii Natural Energy Institute (HNEI), University of Hawaii
  
  

BET assembled a first class team supported by the largest engineering company (AECOM Pacific) in Hawaii and an established local firm, HSI Mechanical.  It secured an ideal five acre former greenhouse site located on the west end of Oahu (Waianae) for the planned pilot facility.  In addition, we entered into a research agreement with HNEI.  The fall 2008 market collapse allowed us to take a step back and reevaluate the bioreactor system we intended to deploy and how to make a serious, long term business out of algae.  It became clear that it was necessary to look beyond the hype and come up with a reasonable road map that could survive the technology "valley of death" and reward it's investors and backers while setting the stage for the ultimate holy grail in fuel - competitive biofuels.

After significant outreach to experts, DOE and independent analysis BET concluded that it must bridge this obvious technology gap by addressing and utilizing other waste streams in the growing process to justify further downstream development.  Waste water from sewage treatment plants and affluent from certain agricultural operations provide ideal nutrients and conditions to grow algae while cleaning our dwindling water supplies.  Also, CO2 is required to grow algae.  By sequestering CO2 one can generate significant carbon credits providing cash flow which will increase significantly if Congress passes a Cap and Trade Bill.  As a result of the above, BET has developed a logical phased plan to move forward
more info