The 30th National Ethanol Conference celebrated the industry’s growth over the past three decades and what the opportunities are for the future. In this edition of the Ethanol Report podcast, we hear some highlights from the conference, including comments from Renewable Fuels Association president and CEO Geoff Cooper, Congressman Randy Feenstra (R-IA), RFA Chief Economist Scott Richman, RFA Industry Award …
Ethanol Exports Offer Industry Opportunities
There were a thousand and one reasons to attend the last session of the National Ethanol Conference Wednesday, and one of them was learning about the potential for expanding the global market for ethanol. Exports of U.S. ethanol hit record highs last year and are booming as countries around the world recognize the economic and environmental benefits of American-made renewable …
RFA Honors Rick Schwarck with Industry Award
The Renewable Fuels Association honored ethanol industry pioneer Rick Schwarck with the 2025 Industry Award at the National Ethanol Conference in Nashville. “Since co-founding Absolute Energy twenty years ago, Rick Schwarck has demonstrated remarkable leadership in advocating for ethanol, defending the policies that have helped our industry grow, and advancing ethanol’s scientific underpinnings,” RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper said. …
Rep. Feenstra Champions Ethanol at #RFANEC
One of ethanol’s champions in Congress visited the National Ethanol Conference Tuesday to chat with members of the industry and Renewable Fuels Association president and CEO Geoff Cooper about many issues, including his strong support of nationwide, year-round E15. Feenstra said it was frustrating to get so close with the inclusion of the provision in the Continuing Resolution in December …
Annual Ethanol Economic Analysis from RFA
The latest economic impact analysis from the Renewable Fuels Association shows the ethanol industry’s contribution to the U.S. economy remained “robust” last year, as record-setting production offset the impact of lower commodity prices. “2024 was another very good year following on the heels of 2023,” said RFA Chief Economist Scott Richman. “In terms of helping out in terms of what …
RFA CEO on the State of the Ethanol Industry
As is tradition, the 30th annual National Ethanol Conference kicked off with the State of the Industry address from Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper, who highlighted the industry’s pivotal role in American agriculture and outlined how ethanol can once again help the farm sector thrive in the face of current economic challenges. Cooper reflected on the industry’s …
President Announces Reciprocal Tariffs on Brazil Ethanol
President Donald Trump signed a Memorandum Thursday ordering the “development of a comprehensive plan for restoring fairness in U.S. trade relationships and countering non-reciprocal trading arrangements” and that includes Brazilian tariffs on U.S. ethanol. The White House fact sheet on the plan notes “endless examples where our trading partners do not give the United States reciprocal treatment” and the first …
2025 Marks 30th National Ethanol Conference
The ethanol industry will be getting “Back to Our Roots” in 2025 with the Renewable Fuels Association’s 30th annual National Ethanol Conference, taking place in Nashville February 17–19. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says the theme “Back to Our Roots” was chosen to reflect the ethanol industry’s humble beginnings, its incredible growth, and its enduring ties to American agriculture. …
Trump Talks Ethanol With Japan
President Trump wants to supply Japan with U.S. ethanol. During a press conference with Trump, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said his country is interested in importing … “bioethanol, ammonia and other resources” which could help reduce the U.S. trade deficit with Japan. “I want to just say that, on the ethanol, Iowa is going to be very happy. Nebraska, …
RFA Reports 2024 Ethanol and Distillers Grains Exports
New statistical reports released this week by the Renewable Fuels Association show ethanol export volume and overall export value hit record highs last year. According to the reports, the value of the U.S. ethanol industry’s exports rose to a peak of $7.5 billion in 2024, fueled by a record 1.91 billion gallons of ethanol exported in 2024. Meanwhile, distillers grains …