FRANKFORT, Ky.  – Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary Len Peters today announced the appointment of Tim Hughes as the director for the Division of Biofuels in the cabinet’s Department for Energy Development and Independence.

Hughes previously served as the senior policy analyst in the Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy where he also held various other roles since 2004.  He and his wife Lori own TLC Farms in Simpson County.  Hughes has been an active agricultural leader in both Logan and Simpson counties.

In his new role, Hughes will lead on-going efforts to encourage the growth of Kentucky’s biofuels and biomass industries through research, development and commercialization. In 2009, the division worked with Gov. Steve Beshear’s Task Force on Biomass and Biofuels to create a working plan that outlines the economic and environmental advantages of using biomass and biofuels in conjunction with existing energy resources.

Hughes is a graduate of Western Kentucky University where he also served as farm manager in 2002 and 2003.  He has served as the state chairman of two young farmer groups and has played leadership roles in various national farm organizations.  Hughes was recognized recently by the Bowling Green Daily News as “one of 20 people under 40” who are making a difference in their communities. 

More information on the Division for Biofuels may be found by clicking here.