Originally Posted by AzTeK

The net energy gain of Ethanol from corn is essentially negative, and yet huge sums have been invested. Sure, the government subsidies have helped, but that's not going to change just because we turn to another fuel source. We need an alternative for oil that is economically, environmentally and ethically sound, and if the free market is not capable of making the switch on its own I don't see why the government shouldn't give it a little tap if it makes sense. Corn from ethanol however does not, unfortunately, so every cent the government invests here is in essence money thrown out of the window.