Homeland and Energy Solutions has joined the one billion gallons of ethanol club. The ethanol plant produced its one billionth gallon on August 31, 2016. The biorefinery went in to production in April 2009 and today has a nameplate capacity of 150 million gallons of ethanol each year. It’s one of the largest dry grind plants in operation today and employs 49 people.

“Homeland Energy Solutions is proud to achieve this important milestone,” said James Broghammer, Homeland Energy Solutions CEO. “Since the beginning, we have focused on expanding first through optimization followed by capital investments. We strive to get the most out of what we have while using a team approach with vendors, employees and suppliers.

In the years since going into operation Homeland Energy has purchased more than 340 million bushels of corn, equaling nearly $1.7 billion dollars. The ethanol plant has also produced more than 162 million pounds of corn and 2.6 million tons of distillers grains. The one billion gallons has also filled 34,722 loads of rail tanker cars.

“Congratulations to Homeland Energy Solutions for achieving one billion gallons,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. “Their commitment to cleaner-burning, homegrown ethanol has resulted in more local jobs, a cleaner environment and decreased dependence on foreign oil. The one billion gallons we celebrate today has not only had a big impact on the local economy, but its positive ripple effects extend across our nation.”

Homeland Energy Solutions Plant Manager, Kevin Howes, added of the achievement, “While we were not the first plant to reach one billion gallons, we reached this milestone as quickly as any other plant in the country. This would not have been possible without a very proactive Board of Directors and an outstanding group of employees. It is an honor and a privilege to be a part of and lead one of the best teams in the industry. I am looking forward to producing the next billion gallons.”