Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen signed a proclamation Wednesday to officially kick off May as Renewable Fuels Month in the state.

The proclamation was made during a ceremony at the State Capitol underscoring the pivotal role that renewable fuels play in the state’s economy, environment and energy security. The governor was joined by representatives from Renewable Fuels Nebraska, the Nebraska Soybean, Corn and Ethanol Boards alongside their respective grower associations.

“Renewable fuels like ethanol, biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel represent the best of our state,” said Tony Leiding, President of Trenton Agri Products and Renewable Fuels Nebraska. “Nebraskans are finding new and exciting ways to meet demand while reducing the impact on the environment with products grown right here at home.”

According to the Nebraska Ethanol Board, the month of May marks the beginning of the summer driving season, making it an ideal time for Renewable Fuels Month to highlight the importance of ethanol, renewable diesel, and biodiesel to the state.

Nebraska is the second-largest producer of ethanol in the country, and legislation passed by the 2024 Nebraska Legislature provides a tax credit for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) produced in Nebraska. Ethanol and oils from corn and soybean processing serve as low-carbon, low-cost feedstocks for the production of SAF, which can reduce emissions by more than 50% compared to conventional jet fuel.