A paper mill in Wisconsin Rapids is selected for one of four small-scale biorefinery demonstration project grants from the U.S. Department of Energy.

That means up to $30 million in federal funds will be available to help Newpage and its partners construct and operate a thermal gasification and gas-to-liquids plant at the Wisconsin Rapids mill.

The goal is to convert wood wastes to renewable diesel fuel.

Democratic Congressman Dave Obey of Wausau praised the selection. He says developing renewable energy alternatives to reduce reliance on foreign oil is of critical importance for the future.