Third quarter sales reports of E85 in Iowa indicate that 2011 sales have already exceeded total sales during 2010, according to the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association.

As of September, Iowa retailers sold 9.8 million gallons of E85 during the first nine months of 2011, exceeding the 9.3 million total gallons sold last year. The Iowa Department of Revenue says sales increased 20 percent during the third quarter of 2011 (July to September) compared to the same period last year.

Currently, Iowa has 158 retail outlets offering E85.

Retailers wishing to offer E85 may be eligible for a state grant to offset some of the equipment and installation costs. The Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Board is now accepting applications or retailers can contact the Iowa Department of Agriculture.