Lake Charles firm producing algae for food and fuel

A Lake Charles-based biotechnology company has developed a new way to grow algae to produce both food and fuel, The American Press reports. Brothers David and Nathan Johnston, owners of Aquatic Energy, came to Louisiana from Maryland seeking the state’s ideal climate and clay-based soil to grow and harvest algae. Refineries are the company’s main customer for the algae-based oil—converted to renewable diesel fuel—which made Lake Charles an ideal location for the business. Aquatic Energy is also working with major food companies like Land O’Lakes-Purina to use the algae for poultry, swine and dairy applications and animal feed for livestock. Aquatic Energy moved to Lake Charles in 2007 and began testing the harvesting of algae in southwest Louisiana, which led to the opening of their Roanoke facility nearly 30 miles to the east. The Roanoke facility is the company’s largest integrated facility, spanning 30 acres with algae growing “ponds” up to 400 feet long. For the rest of 10/12 Corridor Weekly, click here.