Grassley: $984,000 released to the University of Northern Iowa from U.S. Department of Energy

            WASHINGTON — Senator Chuck Grassley today announced that the U.S. Department of Energy will release $984,000 to the University of Northern Iowa’s Agriculture Based Industrial Lubricants Program in Waverly. The funds were requested and secured by Grassley through the fiscal 2008 appropriations process.

 

            “With oil prices sky-high, it is increasingly important to lower our dependence on foreign oil,” Grassley said. “This program has developed a strong reputation as a national leader in research, development, technical service and demonstration of biobased lubricants.”

 

            The funds will be used to help develop and stimulate the commercialization of environmentally friendly soybean-based industrial lubricants and greases. The University of Northern Iowa’s Agriculture Based Industrial Lubricants Program’s contribution to the nation’s bio-lubricant industry through the expansion of bio-based research and test capabilities is expected reduce America’s reliance on petroleum imports and to decrease the impact petroleum lubricants have on our nation’s environment.