In keynote remarks today at the International Fuel Ethanol Workshop and Expo in Omaha, Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper stressed the need to “unleash” American ethanol for energy independence and the rural farm economy.
“If there was ever an energy sector that needs to be let off the leash and allowed to run free, it is today’s ethanol industry,” Cooper said. “For far too long, bureaucratic barriers, regulatory indecision, and policy uncertainty have been holding the U.S. ethanol industry back and preventing us from reaching our full potential. The industry could be doing so much more: More to deliver lower-cost, cleaner-burning fuel to consumers around the world. More to expand into new markets like aviation and maritime and other heavy-duty uses. And more to stimulate demand for America’s farmers.”
Cooper says RFA has a five-point plan for unleashing American ethanol:
Secure strong Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2026 and beyond
Pass year-round E15 legislation and remove regulatory burdens
Remove trade barriers and secure expanded market access for ethanol exports
Establish a level playing field for clean liquid-fueled vehicles, not only EVs
Provide certainty and clarity regarding the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit
Geoff Cooper, President Trump, and SIRE CEO Mike Jerke – June 11, 2019
“A lot has changed since President Trump visited SIRE six years ago. But what hasn’t changed is the power of ethanol to reduce fuel costs for consumers, enhance energy security, and boost demand for hard-hit farmers. And President Trump and leaders in his administration seem to get it. They seem to understand that opening the marketplace to larger volumes of ethanol can help achieve our nation’s energy, agriculture, and economic goals. Now is the time to Unleash American Ethanol!”
Cooper discussed some of the issues he addressed in his remarks today in the latest Ethanol Report podcast.
6:13 – the One Big Beautiful Bill and 45Z
10:41 – California bill to allow E15
18:59 – Where is EPA with RVOs?