Rockwell Automation has announced that it has launched a Biofuels Customer Advisory Council (CAC) to provide customers with a forum to discuss their needs, challenges, and industry opportunities. Rockwell Automation will use the customer feedback to guide and validate future strategies and product roadmaps for its Pavilion8 model predictive control and plant wide optimisation solutions.

The 2011-2012 CAC is composed of representatives from a diverse group of industry-leading companies, including Cardinal Ethanol, LLC, Golden Grain Energy, LLC, Kansas Ethanol, LLC, Marquis Energy, LLC, Trenton Agri Products, LLC, Western Plains Energy, LLC, Western Wisconsin Energy, LLC, White Energy, LLC and Zilor Enterprises. As part of their participation, members will have the opportunity to preview new products and take advantage of beta-testing opportunities.

"I am pleased that Rockwell Automation recognises the importance of obtaining customer input to create solutions that address my industry's primary needs and goals," said Mr Jeff Painter, CEO, Cardinal Ethanol, LLC. "As a member of the customer advisory council, I feel honoured and appreciate the opportunity to assist in guiding solutions that will benefit not only my company, but the biofuels industry as a whole."

"Our council is an integral part of our commitment at Rockwell Automation, to deliver the highest possible value to our customers," said Mr John Genovesi, vice president and general manager, Information Solutions and Process Business, Rockwell Automation. "We are honoured to host this team of respected companies and leaders for this year's council."

(http://www.rockwellautomation.com/rockwellsoftware/biofuels/)