The leading maker of the enzymes used to produce biofuels says the declining political support for ethanol hasn't diminished the long-term prospects for the industry making fuel from plants.

Novozymes plans to open a major new enzyme plant in eastern Nebraska next year to better serve the ethanol industry.

The plant near Blair cost nearly $200 million to build and will employ about 100 people.

Adam Monroe, who is president of Novozymes' North American unit, says there is huge potential for the U.S. biofuel industry even though a key tax credit will end next year.

The design of the Blair plant reflects the Danish firm's optimism about the industry.

The plant has room to be expanded fivefold, and some of the infrastructure for expansion is being built now.