Iowa RFA Releases New Economic Impact Report

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A new economic contribution study shows Iowa biofuels production has begun to reflect stagnant corn demand throughout the agriculture economy as the multiplying effects of corn and soybean purchases have been reduced due to lower commodity prices.

Decision Innovation Solutions (DIS) conducted the study, commissioned by the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA). The study found: “Even though a variety of factors converged in 2024 that created stresses for the biofuels industry in Iowa and lowered the economic contributions of the industry to the Iowa economy compared to prior years, Iowa’s renewable fuels industry set another record for fuel production.” Specifically, biofuels production contributes the following to Iowa:

Accounts for $5.7 billion, or about 2%, of Iowa GDP
Generates $2.6 billion of income for Iowa households; and
Over 34,000 jobs throughout the entire Iowa economy

“Renewable fuels production continues to be a core part of Iowa’s economy,” said IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw. “Yet, as farmers continue to produce more and domestic demand has leveled off, we saw commodity prices fall. That means the indirect impacts of converting corn and soybeans into renewable fuels also fell. Simply put, Iowa farmers need growing markets. The best way to open new ethanol markets around the world is with carbon capture and sequestration (CCS). That is the most cost-effective and impactful tool we can provide our farmers and producers.”

In 2024, Iowa ethanol plants produced 4.6 billion gallons of ethanol and continues to lead the nation in ethanol production. Iowa biodiesel facilities produced 353 million gallons, up from 350 million gallons in 2023.

Biodiesel, biofuels, Ethanol, Ethanol News, Iowa RFA

Nebraska Renewable Fuels Month is Official

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Nebraska Ethanol Board joins Gov. Pillan for proclamation signing

The Nebraska Ethanol Board (NEB) proudly joined Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen this week in proclaiming May as Renewable Fuels Month.

“The Nebraska Ethanol Board is grateful for Governor Pillen’s support and for our legislative partners who champion ethanol at both the state and federal level,” said Nebraska Ethanol Board Executive Director Ben Rhodes. “But we’re not just celebrating this month. We remain committed to advocating for ethanol every day, ensuring Nebraska remains at the forefront of renewable fuels.”

As the nation’s second-largest ethanol producer, Nebraska’s ethanol plants produce over 2 billion gallons annually. The industry supports thousands of high-quality careers across the state, including directly creating 1,800 jobs with average salaries near $80,000 each year between 2021 and 2023. Overall, the economic impact of ethanol in Nebraska is more than $6 billion per year.

Ethanol, Ethanol News

Ethanol Exports Soar in March

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Exports of U.S. ethanol and the co-product dried distillers grains (DDGS) both increased in March, according to the latest RFA Trade Monitor report.

U.S. ethanol exports rebounded sharply in March, surging 41% to 195.8 million gallons (mg) amid broad-based improvements across most major markets. Shipments were 23% higher than year-ago levels. March also marked Canada’s fourth consecutive year as the leading destination for U.S. ethanol, with exports climbing 27% to a six-month high of 64.5 mg—accounting for two-thirds of March’s denatured ethanol sales. Exports to the United Kingdom, the largest foreign market for U.S. undenatured fuel ethanol, more than tripled to an 11-month high of 30.0 mg. The European Union boosted its imports by 21% to 21.2 mg, India’s imports rose 42% to 18.8 mg, and South Korea’s surged 80% to a ten-month high of 11.8 mg. Other notable markets included the Philippines (-28% to 10.8 mg), Colombia (+58% to 10.7 mg), Brazil (up from zero to 7.0 mg), Nigeria (up from zero to 5.8 mg), Mexico (-48% to 5.8 mg), and Peru (-10% to 5.5 mg). Collectively, these eleven markets accounted for 98% of total March ethanol exports. Cumulatively, U.S. ethanol exports for the first quarter reached 532.6 mg, a robust 19% increase over the same period last year.

DDGS increased 21% in March to 1.03 million metric tons (mt), led by a 79% surge in shipments to top customer Mexico, rebounding sharply from a four-year low in February.

Exports to South Korea edged 3% lower to 114,681 mt, while shipments to Indonesia jumped 66% to a nine-month high of 93,483 mt. Exports to Colombia and Vietnam each advanced 25%, reaching 92,712 mt and 83,665 mt, respectively. Collectively, these five markets accounted for half of March’s total DDGS exports. Other sizable destinations included Canada (-13% to 49,864 mt), Turkey (-4% to 40,211 mt), Japan (-3% to 40,177 mt), the European Union (-28% to 38,520 mt), and Thailand (+147% to 34,244 mt). The remaining quarter of exports was distributed across 26 additional markets. Cumulatively, U.S. DDGS exports for the first quarter totaled 2.69 million mt, trailing the prior year’s pace by 9%.

Distillers Grains, Ethanol, Ethanol News, Exports, Renewable Fuels Association, RFA

Study Shows Clean Fuels Industry Impact on Economy

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The U.S. biomass-based diesel industry contributed $42.4 billion the to U.S. economy in 2024, according to a new study commissioned by Clean Fuels Alliance America.

The GlobalData study, “Economic Impact of Biodiesel on the U.S. Economy 2024,” also showed the industry supported 107,400 jobs and paid $6 billion in annual wages using actual 2024 data, including 5 billion gallons of domestic production. It evaluates direct, indirect and induced economic impacts and jobs across the entire value chain, from raw-material production, collection and processing to fuel production and distribution.

According to the report, nearly half of the total economic impact—$19.9 billion and 41,500 jobs—came from fuel production, while oilseed production supported 30,600 jobs and generated $15.3 billion in economic activity, delivering major benefits to soybean-growing states. Significant employment was also reported in oilseed processing (8,600 jobs) and rendering (12,700 jobs).

“The numbers don’t lie; 2024 was a record-setting year for clean fuels, and the benefits reached deep into rural America,” said Donnell Rehagen, CEO of Clean Fuels. “This study proves that biodiesel and renewable diesel not only lower carbon emissions but deliver real income and jobs, especially for soybean producers and the broader agricultural economy.”

Looking ahead, the industry’s continued growth could bring even greater returns to farmers, feedstock producers and fuel producers. The study also analyzes a near-future capacity scenario of 7.4 billion gallons, based on publicly announced investments in new or expanded facilities. At that level, the industry could support 145,700 jobs and contribute $60.25 billion annually to the U.S. economy, according to GlobalData.

Biodiesel, Clean Fuels Alliance, renewable diesel

Happy Renewable Fuels Month to Nebraska

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May is Renewable Fuels Month in Nebraska, highlighting the importance of ethanol and biodiesel to the state, according to the Nebraska Ethanol Board.

The month of May marks the beginning of the summer driving season, making it an ideal time to fuel up on clean and cost-saving biofuels. Ethanol, renewable diesel, and biodiesel help to decrease America’s dependence on foreign oil, boost our nation’s economy, and support thousands of jobs in rural communities.

Nebraska is the second-largest producer of ethanol in the country, and the use of a 10% blend saves Nebraskans millions per year. In 2024, thanks to ethanol blends of E10 and above, Nebraska drivers saved at least $300 million. Overall, the Nebraska ethanol industry contributes more than $6 billion to the state’s economy.

“Today begins a monthlong celebration of renewable fuels and their impact on our state,” Nebraska Ethanol Board (NEB) Executive Director Ben Rhodes said. “Ethanol and other renewable fuels provide many benefits: they strengthen our rural communities, save drivers money, and contribute to cleaner air.”

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen will officially declare May as Renewable Fuels Month on May 6.

Ethanol, Ethanol News

Nominations for FEW Awards Deadline May 2

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Jeanne McCaherty, Guardian Energy Management, (right) received the 2024 Women in Ethanol Award

The International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo (FEW) is accepting nominations for its annual awards, which will be presented at the 2025 Workshop, June 9-11 in Omaha, Nebraska.

Award Categories include:
Distinguished Service Award
The Distinguished Service Award honors individuals who have shown extraordinary advocacy, leadership, and long-term commitment to advancing ethanol production on a global scale. This prestigious recognition is awarded to those whose contributions have had a lasting impact on the industry’s growth, innovation, and sustainability.
Award of Excellence
The Award of Excellence recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the fuel ethanol industry through their research, technical advisory and/or development activities.
High Octane Award
The High Octane Award acknowledges a person who has helped the ethanol industry mature and progress over the years. This award recognizes a person whose passion and unstoppable pursuits have significantly benefited the ethanol industry.
Women in Ethanol Award
The Women in Ethanol Award recognize women within the ethanol industry and highlight the crucial role women play in the growth and success of the ethanol industry.

Click here to nominate. Deadline to submit is May 2nd.

Ethanol, Ethanol News, FEW

Ethanol Report on Aromatics Cancer Research

Cindy Zimmerman

New research out of The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota has discovered links between breast cancer risk and exposure to carcinogens and aromatics from gasoline.

The Biofuels Research Project at The Hormel Institute has been studying the carcinogenic effects of compounds originating from burning fossil fuels thanks to the support of organizations like the Renewable Fuels Association. RFA board member Rick Schwark of Absolute Energy in Minnesota was a major force in getting the project started because ethanol could substitute for the octane-enhancing additives in gasoline that may contribute to the risk of cancer.

In this edition of The Ethanol Report podcast, we hear from Dr. Leena Hilakivi-Clark, author of “Aromatics from fossil fuels and breast cancer,” biofuels research economist Steffan Mueller, and Gail Dennison, Director of Development and External Relations for The Hormel Institute.

Ethanol Report 4-30-25 26:09

Audio interviews, presentations and photos from the NEC can be found in the conference virtual newsroom.

The Ethanol Report is a podcast about the latest news and information in the ethanol industry that has been sponsored by the Renewable Fuels Association since 2008.

Choose an option to subscribe

Audio, biofuels, Ethanol, Ethanol News, Ethanol Report, Podcasting, Renewable Fuels Association, Research, RFA

EPA Announces Summertime Waivers for E15

Cindy Zimmerman

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued the first in a series of waivers to allow sales of 15% ethanol blended gasoline, E15, to continue this summer. The first waiver begins on May 1, 2025, and lasts through May 20, 2025.

By doing so, EPA will keep E15 on the market giving consumers more options across the nation. This is consistent with President Trump’s Executive Order Declaring a National Energy Emergency, directing the EPA to consider issuing emergency waivers to allow for year-round E15 sales.

“On his first day in office, President Trump declared a national energy emergency and identified year-round E15 as a solution for extending fuel supplies and reducing pump prices,” said Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “With geopolitical conflict roiling energy markets worldwide, we applaud President Trump and Administrator Zeldin for acting quickly to combat potential fuel shortages and help keep a lid on gas prices this summer. Allowing uninterrupted sales of E15 will help boost gasoline supplies, bolster the farm economy, and protect air quality.”

This is the fourth consecutive year, EPA has had to issue waivers to allow E15 to be sold during the summer driving season, and American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings says it is time for that to end. “Last year, EPA finalized a rule to allow permanent, year-round E15 sales in some Midwest states starting today — thanks to strong leadership from state governors and persistent grassroots pressure from our industry,” said Jennings. “Nevertheless, emergency waivers and a patchwork of state-specific rules are a temporary remedy, and we badly need a permanent fix to allow E15 year-round on a nationwide basis.”

ACE, E15, Ethanol, Ethanol News, Renewable Fuels Association, RFA

Corn Growers Urge Ford to Make FFVs

Cindy Zimmerman

Corn growers across the nation are calling on Ford Motor Company to restart production of Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) capable of using up to 85 percent ethanol fuel (E85), and reaffirm its support for rural America.

In a joint letter addressed to Ford President and CEO Jim Farley, the National Corn Growers Association and 20 state corn grower groups expressed concerns over the automaker’s move away from FFVs, particularly in its F-Series truck lineup.

“Farm families have historically chosen the F-150 not only for its towing and payload capabilities but also because it was a truck they could fuel with ethanol – a domestic, renewable fuel made from corn, grown and refined in the very communities where Ford trucks are most popular,” the letter states. “Today’s farm families want to continue driving trucks made in America, powered by fuel made in America.”

In 2014, nearly half of all light-duty vehicles produced by Ford, GM, and Chrysler were FFVs. Since that time, flex-fuel options have disappeared from Ford’s production lines and despite the F-150 remaining the top-selling vehicle in many of the nation’s corn-producing states, Ford no longer offers a flex-fuel model.

“We believe Henry Ford’s original vision to empower farmers and reduce our reliance on foreign oil remains as relevant today as it was in 1908,” the letter concludes. “Let us work together to ensure Ford continues to be Built for America—including the farmers who help feed and fuel it.”

Car Makers, corn, E85, Ethanol, Ethanol News, NCGA

Research Finds Breast Cancer Risk Link to Aromatics

Cindy Zimmerman

Research out of The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota has discovered links between breast cancer risk and exposure to carcinogens and aromatics from gasoline.

Professor Leena Hilakivi-Clarke, PhD, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, is the author of a paper appearing in the scientific journal iScience titled “Aromatics from fossil fuels and breast cancer.” In a review of existing scientific literature, researchers identified links between exposure to benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX) aromatics and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from fossil fuels and breast cancer risk in humans.

“It is essential to reduce exposure to the products from burning fossil fuels to prevent breast cancer. We are studying if reducing BTEX exposure will reduce susceptibility to PAH induced breast cancer. One way to reduce BTEX compounds is to reduce exposure by adding ethanol to gasoline,” Dr. Hilakivi-Clarke said.

Listen to Dr. Hilakivi-Clarke summarize her findings:
Leena Hilakivi-Clarke, PhD, The Hormel Institute 4:59

Researchers have been studying the carcinogenic effects of compounds originating from burning fossil fuels through the Biofuels Research Project which is supported by 15 different ethanol and biofuels funding agencies, including the Renewable Fuels Association. The research is important because ethanol could substitute for the octane-enhancing additives in gasoline that may contribute to the risk of cancer.

In the next episode of The Ethanol Report podcast, we will take a deeper dive into The Hormel Institute research and its significance to the biofuels industry.

Audio, biofuels, Ethanol, Ethanol News, Renewable Fuels Association, Research, RFA