The development of algae as a biofuel feedstock got a boost today (6th November) with the announcement of an expansion for the National Algae Association. The expansion will see the opening of three regional chapters, two in the USA, in California and Tennessee, and one overseas in the UK.

Commenting on the expansion Barry Cohen, NAA Executive Director said; "We are witnessing accelerated progress in the path towards the commercialization of algae in the next couple of years and this view is tremendously exciting".

NAA Chairman of R&D, Will Thurmond, agreed; "Our research and development efforts clearly illustrate advancement in the algae industry with investments, projects and initiatives and participation from investment majors such as Gates, The Rockefellers, DOE, BP and Chevron," he said.

The inaugural meetings for the three chapters are as follows;

The California Chapter, headed up by Amy Montoya, at California State University-Fullerton Campus; the Mid-South Chapter, headed by Tamra Fakhoorian, at Scarritt Bennett Center in Nashville, Tennessee; and the UK Chapter, headed up by Eric Pierce, at Cranfield University, Barton Rd, Silsoe, Bedford, MK45 4DT England.