Accra — Caltech Ventures Ghana Limited could begin the production of ethanol from cassava at Hodzo near Ho next year when its 6.5 million dollars production plant would be ready.

Managing Director, Mr. Chris Quarshie, told newsmen on Saturday that the company's total investment in the venture is 10 million U.S. dollars. The company has put 400 acres under cassava cultivation with plans to expand to 1,200 acres next year. He said 60 percent of the 6 million litres of ethanol to be produced yearly would be exported.

Mr. Quarshie said the company, which has an out-growers' scheme, has the potential to provide 600 jobs up from the current 140 when in full production.

He described the relationship between the company and the people of Hodzo as excellent and has donated five computers with accessories to five junior high schools in the area for computer training.