The Merrimack Biodiesel Crew Grows Algae for Fuel
The Merrimack Biodiesel Crew has also been experimenting with algae, growing different types in flasks on a science lab windowsill.
Now, the crew hopes to expand its operation – and host other environmentally friendly initiatives – by building a greenhouse in the Merrimack High School courtyard. The crew has been named a finalist in a nationwide competition that could net it $15,000 if it gets1 enough online votes.
During the last few years, the Biodiesel Crew – a club at the school that promotes alternative energy awareness – has collected fry oil from local restaurants and converted it to clean fuel, which has run a bus for extracurricular activities, among other things.
This year, the team has switched its focus to the growing trend: algae.
“This is a new way to try and do it because we can grow our own oil,” said junior Nick Deraney, 16.
Although it would take far more algae growth to power anything significant, growing algae eliminates having to pick up fry oil at places in town, said junior Bryce Fischer, 17.
