At the National Ethanol Conference in Orlando last week, the chairman of the Renewable Fuels Association expressed optimism about the industry going forward despite the current challenges getting E15 legislation passed by Congress.
“We all feel a little bit disappointed maybe where E15 is nationally and in California, but the reality is there’s so much optimism to be had if you really look back the accomplishments we’ve made it’s incredible and the opportunities that are sitting in front of us,” said Derek Peine, CEO of Western Plains Energy in Oakley, Kansas. “Just be optimistic. There is so much work being done behind the scenes, there’s so much talent doing that work. The opportunity for E15 is at our doorstep and we will accomplish it.”
Peine is very optimistic about the young talent in the ethanol industry, evidenced by the ten scholarship recipients chosen to attend the NEC this year. “I think that’s really key for this industry. It’s one of the things I like about the industry is as we’re now growing, the RFS is 20 plus years old now. There’s still a lot of innovation occurring…I think for young professionals to come in, this is a great industry that has a lot of freedom to make decisions, and you can stay in rural America and have that great career.”
NEC26 interview - Derek Peine, RFA Chairman (3:54)