Illinois biofuel projects get federal cash

WASHINGTON -- Three Illinois biofuels projects have been awarded more than $50 million in federal stimulus funds.

The U.S. Department of Energy said Friday that $24.8 million is going to Archer Daniels Midland Co. in Decatur for a project using acid to break down biomass for fuel.

Haldor Topsoe Inc. will receive $25 million for a project in Des Plaines to convert wood to so-called green gasoline. And the Gas Technology Institute in Des Plaines is getting $2.5 million for another project designed to turn woody material into gasoline and diesel.

The money is part of $564 million headed to 19 projects around the country.

Energy Secretary Steven Chu says the money is intended to help establish an American biorefinery industry.