Updated: Thu Jul. 03 2008 11:33:19 AM

The Canadian Press

TORONTO — Two projects in Ontario seeking fuel alternatives are getting a $7.5-million boost from the provincial government.

Both projects are trying to develop biofuels made agricultural byproducts, such as corn husks and manure, instead of from crops.

Most of the funding, $5 million, is going to a research centre at the University of Western Ontario's experimental field station.

The second project will take place at a London, Ont.,- area farm and focuses on generating green energy from manure and waste water.

Ontario produces close to 50 million tons of biomass a year, which has the potential to produce enough energy to power seven million homes.

Since 2003, the Ontario government has invested more than $600 million in research devoted to green technologies and initiatives.