by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Transforming traditional ethanol into an ag tech sustainable biorefinery platform, is what Green Plains is focused on today. Dive into their transformation which they call Green Plains 2.0, latest investments in critical technology, acquisitions and partnerships, recent and planned milestones, their vision for the Biorefinery of
Iowa
by Mark Dorenkamp (Brownfield Ag News) U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley says President Biden’s $2.3 trillion infrastructure plan is lacking in many areas important to rural America. During his weekly call with ag reporters Tuesday, the Iowa Republican singled out biofuels. “Unfortunately despite the emphasis on environment, biofuels don’t even appear to
by Leslie Reed (University of Nebraska–Lincoln/Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute/Nebraska Today) University of Nebraska–Lincoln researchers affiliated with the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute have received a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to better quantify carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas emissions connected with corn production
by Scott McFetridge (Associated Press) The president and auto industry maintain the nation is on the cusp of a gigantic shift to electric vehicles and away from liquid-fueled cars, but biofuels producers and some of their supporters in Congress aren’t buying it. They argue that now is the time to increase
by Cassie Mullen (Renewable Fuels Association) … At the same time—flying under the radar—has been the latest round of grants approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture under its Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, also known as HBIIP. This is an important effort begun last year by the USDA to
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Advanced Biofuels Association, Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas, the National Biodiesel Board and a group of eight states on March 31 filed amicus briefs with the U.S. Supreme Court urging the court to affirm the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals’ January 2020 ruling
(Renewable Energy Group/Business Wire) Fleets Immediately Reducing Carbon Emissions with 100% Biodiesel — Fleets across the nation are improving their emission reductions by implementing B100 (100% biodiesel) technology into their fleets. Renewable Energy Group (REG) (NASDAQ: REGI) fleet customers in Iowa, Washington, D.C. and Massachusetts are ramping up the use
(CHS) High ethanol blend E15 gasoline is available at about 50 Cenex locations and that number is expected to grow. — In early 2021, CHS announced it had taken steps to make E15 fuels more accessible to the company’s Cenex® branded retail locations by registering with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
(C Store Decisions) From electric vehicle chargers (EVC) to biodiesel and ethanol blends, convenience retailers are working to provide customers with the fuel and fuel alternative options they need, while looking forward to increased demand as vaccines roll out. Ankeny, Iowa-based Casey’s General Stores’ fuel offer varies by location, said Tony
by Mark Laurenzo (Iowa Economic Development Authority/Biofuels Digest) … Coupled with homegrown advancements in precision agriculture that continue to revolutionize the industry, Iowa stands as not only a premier destination for agribusiness but a center of agrarian knowledge that informs the development of new innovations. … With an intimate understanding
(Kemin Biofuels/Markets Insider) Kemin Biofuels, part of Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with its products and services, has expanded its enzyme portfolio with ZyloCell™, a unique dry cellulase for use in bioethanol plants
by Tyler Jett (Des Moines Register/The Hawk Eye) Ethanol production is coming back to a Story County renewable fuels plants. Verbio North American Corp. received $2.6 million in tax incentives from the Iowa Economic Development Authority on Friday to build an $80 million ethanol production line in its Nevada plant, previously the nation’s
(Iowa Economic Development) Today, the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) Board approved awards for seven established companies, which will assist in the creation of 179 jobs and result in almost $105 million in new capital investment for the state. These projects are located in Burlington, Cascade, Iowa City, Johnston, Nevada, Rock
(BusinessWire) Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE: VLO, “Valero”) and BlackRock Global Energy & Power Infrastructure Fund III announced today (March 16, 2021) that they are partnering with Navigator Energy Services (“Navigator”) to develop an industrial scale carbon capture pipeline system (“CCS”). The initial phase is expected to span more than 1,200 miles
(NewsWise) Microbiome and soil chemistry at long-term bioenergy research sites challenge the idea that switchgrass increases carbon accrual in surface soils on marginal lands. — In this study, researchers characterized the influence of crop and site on fungal and bacterial community structure, potential enzyme activity, soil carbon chemistry, and total
(Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship/Biobased Diesel Daily) On March 2, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented the 2021 Secretary’s Biodiesel Marketing Award to Sapp Bros. Inc. CEO Andrew Richard and Eric Ziph, vice president of supply and distribution, accepted the award on the company’s behalf. Sapp Bros. owns
(National Biodiesel Board) 2021 NTEA Fleet Purchasing Outlook Reveals Strong Demand for Biodiesel Among Fleets — In a multitude of ways, the past year has drawn into sharp focus the important interrelationships between public health, the environment, and the economy. Yet through all the challenges presented by a global pandemic, extreme

The National Biomass Summit & Expo, co-located with the world’s largest biofuels event, the 37th annual International Fuel Ethanol Workshop and Expo, as well as the Biodiesel & Renewable Diesel Summit, provides an outstanding opportunity to meet producers from all portions of the biomass and biofuels industries Our goal is
by Katie Piekes (National Public Radio/Harvest Public Media) A new business in Iowa wants to capture and store carbon dioxide emissions from ethanol plants. It would pave the way for biorefineries in Iowa, Minnesota, and the Dakotas to deliver carbon-neutral fuel to the market. Summit Carbon Solutions, a business platform
by Nick Weig (CBS2Iowa) America is in the early stages of a shift from combustion engine cars and trucks to all-electric vehicles, or EV. Electric cars are quiet, sporty and cost a fraction to charge than it costs to gas up their traditional counterparts. But as more motorists reach for
by David May (Des Moines Register) Perhaps the petroleum industry should recognize this legislation as a lifeline rather than a threat. I read with interest the Feb. 15 story “Biofuel bill pits retailers, farmers.” I take issue with some of the points made by the so-called “Fuel Choice Coalition.” This organization includes well-known
(Office of Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)) Just last month, President Biden raised eyebrows when he took executive action to begin transitioning federal government vehicles to electric vehicles. It followed a similar move spearheaded by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who last September, fully embraced the Green New Deal and implemented a move
by Gary C. Young (Bio-Thermal-Energy Inc./Ethanol Producer Magazine) Mixed with steam, run through a reformer and fermented, landfill gas proves an economic and environmentally beneficial feedstock for ethanol production. And each LFG project is a source of green energy that can last for more than two decades. A patented technology
(Solutions from the Land) “There has never been a greater need for an Agricultural Renaissance. The many voices of farmers, echoing across centuries of scarcity and abundance, challenge us to find new ways forward, paths that produce abundance for expanding populations while rejecting wasteful destruction of resources. We must seek these
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Sometimes, as the song says, you gotta bury your troubles, and when your trouble is the cost of carbon dioxide emission, and you’re in the ethanol business, you were stymied until a few minutes ago, when news crossed the wires that Summit Carbon Solutions is building
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, sent a letter to White House National Climate Advisor Gina McCarthy on Feb. 16 inviting her to visit Iowa and learn about the state’s leadership in renewable fuel production and sustainable energy. McCarthy, who served as administrator of the U.S. EPA
by Rhiannon Branch (Brownfield Ag News) Interest and growth in carbon market programs is booming. A recent ecosystem markets webinar hosted by the Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership had more than 1600 participants registered with more than 600 questions submitted ahead of time. Speaker Kari Hernandez, Global Head of Carbon Operations and Offer Marketing with Indigo
(Iowa Biodiesel Board) Governor Kim Reynolds has introduced a bill to set a minimum standard of biofuels in the Iowa fuel supply. For biodiesel, this would mean most Iowa diesel would contain at least 11 percent (B11) during warmer months beginning in April of 2022, and B20 during warmer months in
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds on Feb. 8 introduced a bill that aims to speed the statewide adoption of higher biofuel blends, including E15 and B20. Representatives of the ethanol and biodiesel industries are speaking out in support of the bill. For biodiesel, the bill would
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Green Plains recently acquired Fluid Quip Technologies with ag tech the cornerstone of their transformation strategy and a focus on meeting the growing global demand for protein, corn oil and high-purity alcohol. Check out their latest slide guide to get more details on their Fluid
by Don Siefkes (Des Moines Register) To bring about a total EV society, we would almost have to double generating capacity for electricity and rebuild the entire residential electric grid — … First, recognize that EVs are emission-free only at the tailpipe, that they cut net CO2 emissions only about in half,
(Iowa Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) A new study released today finds biofuels continue to have a significant positive impact on Iowa’s economy, but recent market challenges reduced the job and household income impacts of ethanol and biodiesel production in the state. The study, authored by John Urbanchuk of ABF
by Art Cullen (Storm Lake Times/New York Times) … Few took carbon sequestration seriously during his previous tenure, a time when “resilient agriculture” had not yet entered the vernacular. But the fundamental conversation in the corridors of power and along gravel roads has changed. Extreme weather, a pandemic jolt to
by John Steppe (The Gazette/SoutherMinn.com) Gov. Kim Reynolds is looking forward to “building those same relationships” with President Joe Biden and his Environmental Protection Agency staff that she had with the Trump administration to protect biofuels, Reynolds said during Tuesday’s virtual Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit. … “I will hold this
by O. Kay Henderson (Radio Iowa) Governor Kim Reynolds says any new fuel pumps installed in Iowa should be able to dispense gas with at least a 10 percent blend of ethanol and the governor says B11 — 11 percent biodiesel — should be the standard for diesel pumps. …
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico’s Morning Energy) Ethanol advocates are pushing for the new Biden administration to boost the portion of each gallon of gasoline that comes from corn. … WHAT WILL BIDEN DO ABOUT BIOFUELS?President Joe Biden’s plan to build out electric vehicle charging infrastructure and speed adoption of EVs will hasten the
The Carbon Removal Forum is a campus-wide event to harness knowledge and capacity toward developing an Iowa State University program in agriculturally-based carbon removal. Why should you attend? The forum is intended to introduce ISU students, faculty, and staff to the concept of carbon removal from the atmosphere. We hope
by Bruce Comer and Frank Kim (Ocean Park Advisors/Biofuels Digest) COVID-19 further plagues the already challenged North American biofuels M&A market, while capital investments thrive. — Biofuels merger and acquisition (M&A) activity in North America remained sluggish in 2020. For the second consecutive year, no large-scale, operating biofuels plant changed
by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association/The Gazette) … Renewable liquid fuels and renewable electricity are highly complementary ways to reduce America’s carbon footprint. We can have clean renewable energy from solar and wind, as the authors want, and still take advantage of the greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions that come from

Now in its 37th year, the FEW provides the global ethanol industry with cutting-edge content and unparalleled networking opportunities in a dynamic business-to-business environment. The FEW is the largest, longest running ethanol conference in the world—and the only event powered by Ethanol Producer Magazine. From its inception, the mission of the
by Marc Heller (E&E News) To Sen. Chuck Grassley, only one prospect may be scarier than putting the politics of ethanol before the Supreme Court: letting his colleagues in Congress vote on it. READ MORE
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) The Supreme Court will review a ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit in Denver that found EPA mishandled the small-refinery exemptions program in the Renewable Fuel Standard. The 10th Circuit ruling in January 2020 led the EPA to reject more
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Renewable Energy Group is the largest operator of renewable diesel and biodiesel plants in the US, with 12 refineries and a fast-growing capacity, especially in red-hot renewable diesel. In today’s Digest, we take a DigestData DeepDive™ with Actionable, Relational, Granular, Global Hard Data on REG’s Bioeconomy
by Ron Kotrba (Biobased Diesel Daily) As 2020 comes to a close, Renewable Energy Group Inc., North America’s largest biodiesel producer, is celebrating a quarter-century in soybean oil refinement and biodiesel production. Back in 1995, the company from which REG would be formed several years later—West Central Cooperative—made its first investment
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Renewable Energy Group and Optimus Technologies recently partnered to help Ames, Iowa grow its fleet of sustainable vehicles. The City of Ames is adding seven new all-purpose dump trucks to their fleet that have the Optimus Technologies advanced fuel system integrated into their new vehicle specification. The Optimus
by John Herath (Farm Journal AgWeb) Former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack has been officially tapped by the Joe Biden transition to return to USDA as Secretary. Vilsack was listed as the USDA nominee on the Biden transition Website Thursday morning. Vilsack, currently the CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council, served as USDA
(Renewable Energy Group/BusinessWire) Municipal Fleet Adds Seven Additional Heavy-Duty Trucks Running on 100% Biodiesel — The City of Ames is adding seven new all-purpose dump trucks to their fleet that have the Optimus Technologies advanced fuel system integrated into their new vehicle specification. The Optimus system enables the engines to operate
by Jacqui Fatka (Farm Progress) Reports indicate Obama’s 8-year agricultural secretary Tom Vilsack could be interested in the job. — As President-elect Joe Biden continues to make announcements regarding his cabinet, former Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack looks to now be a front runner to return. According to media reports,
by Clifford Krauss (New York Times) Used cooking oil is one of the ingredients in renewable diesel, which generates far less emissions than conventional diesel and allows refineries to take advantage of federal and state incentives. — … Companies that refine crude oil into fuel are increasingly using such putrid
by Senators Tom Udall (D-N) and Charles Grassley (R-IA) (New York Times) One hundred years ago, Congress passed the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, setting up a system in which companies lease public lands to wrest valuable oil and gas from the ground. In the century since, the royalties and rent
by Natalina Sents (Successful Farming) Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig rolled out the Renewable Fuels Retail Recovery program that includes $7 million in CARES Act funding for renewable fuel retailers in the state today. Relief funds are intended to help gas stations, truck stops, co-ops, and other renewable fuel
(Renewable Energy Group) This week REG is celebrating 25 years of operations! We will be releasing videos all week recounting the last quarter century of hard work and dedication that got us here. Here is how it all started: Hear from Myron Danzer, current REG General Manager, and Matt Schultes,
by John Gaines (The Hawk Eye) There is more fuel than just ethanol fuel being made at Big River Resources in West Burlington. In 2018, the company began a project to create acreage by the facility at 15210 103rd St. into a Monarch Fueling Station. The work has been completed and this
(WNAX) Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley told farm reporters Thursday that 2020 has been a tenuous year for renewable fuels. He says ethanol demand has been hurt by the pandemic and gap year waiver requests for refiners has created a lot of questions. He says the EPA Administrator announced this week they
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) Add six more ethanol companies to the list of plaintiffs suing Archer Daniels Midland, alleging one of the nation’s largest ethanol producers manipulated the market. Wisconsin producers United Wisconsin Grain Producers, Didion Ethanol, Ace Ethanol, Fox River Valley Ethanol, Badger State Ethanol and Iowa producer Pine
by Rod Swoboda (Wallaces Farmer) … Poet’s cellulosic ethanol plant at Emmetsburg was named Project Liberty. Following Poet’s lead, two other companies built cellulosic ethanol plants — one in Kansas and one at Nevada in central Iowa. The owners of those two plants ended up selling their facilities by the end
by Meghan Gordon (S&P Global Platts) Republican played key role in biofuel mandate talks; Opponent supported clean energy, denounced ‘Big Oil’; Ernst took heat for commodity prices, EPA confirmation — US Senator Joni Ernst, Republican-Iowa, held onto her seat after a tight race that tested her support of biofuel makers and knowledge of
(RFD TV) A prominent Republican Senator says that he is in favor of gas-free cars, but Senator Chuck Grassley says that buying one should not be a mandate. … Last week, a group of Democrats introduced a bill that would require automakers to only produce electric cars by 2035. Grassley
by Kim Chipman and Jennifer A Dlouhy (Bloomberg Green) Presidential, Iowa Senate races put biofuel in spotlight; Renewable Fuel Standard uncertainty clouds ethanol outlook — … The winner will oversee a “reset” of the congressional mandate to blend biofuels with gasoline. This new phase of the Renewable Fuel Standard, created in 2005
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Iowa is an agriculture superstar. With 85% of the state’s total land area being farmland, $29 billion in total agriculture receipts in 2017, ranking #1 in the nation in corn production, #2 in soybean production, it is the epicenter of the U.S.’s crop growing region
by Matt Russell (Des Moines Register) … We don’t produce fossil fuel in Iowa. However, Republicans are clear they support Big Oil. They have done almost nothing to stop the Trump administration from handing out benefits to oil companies while he has sucker-punched Iowa’s ethanol industry. The world will continue to need
by Mike Naig (Iowa Department of Agriculture/The Rock Island Dispatch Argus) … I want to bring awareness to the recent executive order signed by California Gov. Gavin Newsom. In his order, Newsom plans to ban the sale of gas-powered vehicles by 2035. This follows previous announcements of the “Green New
by K. Johnson (Storm Lake Times) … I hear a lot of political lip service these days about reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and cleaning up the air. Alcohol from corn and grains should be a major part of that reduction. Ethanol should be key to transitioning to a clean
by Mike Dorning (Bloomberg) Surveys show Trump’s margin fading versus 2016 exit polls; Biden campaign making efforts to play for rural votes — The big margin of support among rural voters that helped Donald Trump secure victory four years ago is looking less firm in 2020 with the potential to
(National Biodiesel Board) BF Receives Grants through US EPA’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act Program — The National Biodiesel Foundation was awarded two U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grants through the 2021 Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program. The first is in partnership with the District of Columbia (DC) Department of Public Works and DC
by Erin Murphy (The Courier) Campaigning in Iowa on Wednesday night, President Donald Trump touted his administration’s work to boost the ethanol industry and help farmers in Iowa. Trump’s administration this year issued a rule that allows gas stations to sell a higher ethanol blend year-round. “They were killing ethanol,”
(Renewable Energy Group) Do you know how clean burning biodiesel is made? Take a tour through an REG biorefinery to see the process happen from beginning to end, and learn about the continuously improving, sustainable biodiesel production process. Learn more about biodiesel and all of its benefits at regi.com. READ
(Convenience Store News) Kum & Go LC is once again upping its commitment to promoting E15 by partaking in the new “Look for the Blue Hose” campaign. In collaboration with Colorado Corn, the American Lung Association and Kum & Go, the “Look for the Blue Hose” campaign is aimed at increasing awareness and sales of
by Rachel Frazin (The Hill Overnight Energy) During the second day during the politically-charged confirmation hearing for Amy Coney Barrett’s nomination for the Supreme Court, Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) invoked environmental issues to ask the nominee for her views on administrative rulemaking. … Ernst, who has been an outspoken opponent of
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has invested $22 million out of the up to $100 million in grants available to increase American ethanol and biodiesel sales. These funds were made available through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) to
y Lisa Grouette (Globe Gazette) At a press conference in Mason City on Wednesday, Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig expressed enthusiasm over recently launched plans to advance biofuel infrastructure projects within the state. Ernst and Naig, along with Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) toured the
by Art Cullen (Washington Post/Storm Lake Times) One big reason Republicans are shoving a Supreme Court appointment through the Senate before the election is their rising fear of losing the upper chamber — and the White House — in November. Those fears are well-founded. Two weeks ago, one of the
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) …What did become clear was Democrats in both the House and the Senate are paying more attention to biofuels at the moment. And yet, given that Congress is going to pass a temporary funding bill, and then go campaign, it’s probably going to take
by Stephanie Kelly and Jarrett Renshaw (Reuters) President Donald Trump, looking to shore up support in the U.S. Farm Belt during a tight race for re-election, is taking steps to help producers of corn-based ethanol using a list of policy goals that a group of Midwest senators discussed with him a
(Mankato Free Press) President Donald Trump and his Environmental Protection Agency have about six weeks to keep their promises to farmers on ethanol, which have been broken for the past three years. While farmers have backed Trump in varying degrees since he took office, their wellspring of patience seems to be running
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In New York state, Reuters reports that RIN prices skyrocketed a two-year high of 55 cents for D6 credits on the back of its exclusive story that President Trump told the EPA to deny all gap-year SRE applications. The RIN prices, not seen that high since
(Houston Chronicle) Using current and past Census data, Stacker tracks the way the American farming industry has changed over the past century. Over the past century, American farming has changed dramatically. Crops with long histories like tobacco are still prevalent throughout the South, while many farmers across the country are now
(Daily Nonpareil) … RENEWABLE FUELS ENDORSES: The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association’s political organizing arm recognized 15 state lawmakers up for re-election, a mixture of Republicans and Democrats who the group said “maintained a clear voting record of support for renewable fuels and displayed leadership on biofuels issues in the Iowa
(KMA Land) A key U.S. Senator says Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue should act to help the pandemic-damaged biofuels industry, despite Perdue’s disputed claim he lacks authority without Congress to do so. Senate Finance Chair Chuck Grassley says he’s personally urged Secretary Perdue to provide direct aid to biofuels, ravaged by the pandemic.
(Iowa Biodiesel Board) Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced today that the state will dedicate more than $15 million of funding for Iowa renewable fuels producers as part of the pandemic economic recovery effort. “Virtually every industry has felt the negative economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and with the pandemic’s corresponding
(Biofuels Digest) Recorded presentations for your on-demand review and enjoyment. Just Pick and Click! On BioChannelTV RENEWABLE DIESEL & DME Saola Energy – Adam Belyamani Axens- David Schwalje Oberon – Rebecca Boudreaux Honeywell UOP-Dan Szeezil NextChem-Valerio Coppini Velocys – Jeff McDaniel ENGINE TECH What if everything with a diesel
by Donnelle Eller (Des Moines Register/Ames Tribune) … “I’ve sat in front of the president, and he does look you in the eye, and he does listen to you,” (Bill) Couser said, adding, “It just makes you wonder what happens after that.” He holds out hope Trump will heed the requests
by O. Kay Henderson (Radio Iowa) Theresa Greenfield, the Iowa Democratic Party’s nominee for the U.S. Senate, says federal policy should expand the use of biofuels in boats and planes. “Ask the Department of Defense to use biofuels as part of a reduction of their carbon footprint, too,” Greenfield says. “…There’s
by Pat Rynard (Iowa Starting Line) Sen. Joni Ernst’s undying loyalty to Pres. Donald Trump was rewarded tonight with a high-profile speech at the Republican National Convention. She repaid Trump for the political boost to her reelection campaign by betraying the Iowans she’s serving, vouching for the President on the exact
(Iowa Farm Bureau) … “The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) applauds Gov. Kim Reynolds’ assistance and focus on agriculture with the CARES Act funding,” said Craig Hill, a Warren County crop and livestock farmer and IFBF president. “This has been a very difficult year in Iowa agriculture. Farmers are battling
by Jacqui Fatka (Feedstuffs) … It was nearly a year ago when farmers’ cries started getting louder demanding that President Donald Trump and his Administration stand up for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and defend the interests of biofuels over big oil. Fast forward to today, and the biofuel industry
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico’s Morning Energy) EPA’s online dashboard shows the agency has now received nearly 100 petitions for small refinery exemptions to the Renewable Fuel Standard mandates dating back to 2011, Pro’s Eric Wolff reports. Since June, EPA has received two new petitions for each of 2011 and 2012,
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Democratic leaders put a heavy emphasis on rural broadband and health care while criticizing the Trump administration and President Trump directly on trade, biofuels, climate change and the pandemic response. A western Pennsylvania soybean and hay farmer who voted for Donald Trump in 2016 spoke
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico’s Morning Energy) Night 3 of the Democratic National Convention featured a lengthy 11-minute take on Joe Biden’s climate and clean energy strategy that hammered home some of his big themes rather than the wonky details (which you can read here). The segment was heavy on optimism and
by Abby Smith (Washington Examiner) Iowa corn farmers could get a boost in a long-running dispute with oil refiners as President Trump pledged to talk to Environmental Protection Agency officials overseeing biofuels requirements on their behalf. Trump said Tuesday during a visit to Iowa that he’ll personally weigh in with EPA
by Jacqui Fatka (Feedstuffs) Vice President Mike Pence visited Des Moines, Iowa, on Thursday to re-launch the Trump campaign’s Farmers & Ranchers for Trump. However, to a room full of farmer supporters his message came off more as a campaign speech, and less understanding of the devastation that just swept through
by Timothy Cama (E&E News) One of the year’s most consequential Senate races could hinge on the candidates’ allegiance to the biofuel industry and ability to secure favorable policies for the sector. READ MORE Democrats are seeing a much better chance of retaking the Senate in 2020 (Public News Update)
(American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Today (August 6, 2020), Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., introduced the Adopt GREET Act, which would require U.S. EPA to update its decade-old greenhouse gas lifecycle modeling for ethanol and biodiesel. American Coalition for Ethanol CEO Brian Jennings issued the following statement in support of
(KMA Land/Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network) … During a virtual forum with the Iowa Farmers Union on Wednesday, Third District Congresswoman Cindy Axne was asked whether fossil fuel companies should be eligible for pandemic relief funds. “Listen, my personal belief is no,” Axne said. “Our fossil fuel companies have been getting handed
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) At ABLC Digital in July, Stephanie Batchelor, Vice President of the Industrial & Environmental Section at Biotechnology Innovation Organization shared this illuminating slide guide on how BIO is advocating for a resilient future, promoting LCFS in states and sustainable fuels at the federal level, advanced
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Ethanol is undoubtedly playing a role in 2020 politics in Iowa, including the presidential race. Getting the word “ethanol” into the next aid package also might become a tipping scale in the Iowa U.S. Senate race. The airwaves in Iowa are filled with a constant barrage
by Jackie Pohlman (Renewable Fuels Association) When a group of dynamic individuals come together to make a difference, there’s no limit on the impact that they can make. This was the case when CTE Global’s employees came together with a single purpose: to make a difference by supporting the communities they
(Renewable Energy Group) The city snowplows in Ames, Iowa, have worked in all types of winter weather. Blizzards. Ice. Subzero temperatures. You name it, they’ve been out in it. In early 2020, they did something they’ve never done before: run on fully renewable fuel. Using a simple, affordable piece of technology,
by Micheal Clements (NAFB News Service/NewsDakota) Iowa Republican Senator Joni Ernst is calling on the Environmental Protection Agency to make E15 available at every U.S. gas pump. Specifically, Ernst calls on EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler to certify biofuel infrastructure for E15 and remove unnecessary labeling which will increase consumer access
by Patty Judge (The Gazette) Rural voters are growing tired of Donald Trump. Recently, the Iowa Poll put Vice President Biden one point ahead of President Trump and Iowa moved from “Likely Republican” to “Lean Republican” on the Cook Political Report. Even Fox News polls show Trump and Biden in a
by Mark Anderson (Sacramento Business Journal) Sacramento fuel distributor Hunt & Sons Inc. has begun selling domestically produced clean biodiesel at some locations in Northern California. The REG Ultra Clean diesel is made by Ames, Iowa-based Renewable Energy Group Inc. and is made mostly from recycled and refined deep fryer oil.
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, sent a letter to U.S. EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler on July 28 urging him to initiate a rulemaking to certify biofuel infrastructure for E15 and remove unnecessary labeling requirements for the fuel blend. “Two years ago, I worked successfully with
by Stephanie Kelly (Reuters) The U.S. biofuel industry may have to depend on Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue for aid, Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa said on Tuesday, after Senate Republicans unveiled a coronavirus relief package without specific appropriations for the industry. A provision of the $1 trillion HEALS Act, introduced
(Biofuels Vision 2020/Ethanol Producer Magazine) In the run up to the November election, Biofuels Vision 2020 is launching a new ad campaign raising the alarm over a major regulatory threat to the economic recovery in Iowa. The new sizable, five-figure digital ad buy calls on Iowa voters to share their concerns about the Trump administration’s
by Nat Williams (Illinois Farmer Today) The ethanol industry has a long, complicated history. But supporters believe the best days are ahead. “Fuel ethanol was a thing as early as early as automobiles. Henry Ford made his automobiles to run on ethanol and called it the fuel of the future,” said Monte
by Linda Qiu (New York Times) … Likewise, Mr. Trump has sought to curry favor with corn farmers in Iowa and the Midwest by claiming to have “kept our promise on ethanol” and falsely charging Democrats with wanting to “wipe out, totally, Iowa ethanol.” Mr. Trump did lift a summertime ban on the
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) … In today’s Digest, rev up the engines for these 5 projects – feedstock supply for renewable fuels and high protein feed; fats, oils, and grease separation technology; waste-to-energy facility that just entered full commercial operation; tech deployment for ethanol plant efficiency; and a
by Anna Marie Tomczyk (Argonne National Laboratory/Phys.Org) … The practices that grain farmers use to produce their crops—managing fertility, tillage practice and crop rotations—influence the overall carbon footprint of U.S. agriculture. By using sustainable practices, farmers could substantially reduce their carbon footprint and become a vital partner to the biofuel
(Penn State News) Transdisciplinary research team aims to create new value chains on U.S. farms, with emphasis on the generation of renewable natural gas, improved rural economic outcomes and protection of the environment. — A new federal grant will allow a research team led by Iowa State University, Penn State and
(Fairfield Sun Times/NAFB) … (U.S. Energy Secretary Dan) Brouillette argued there were differing legal opinions on the ruling’s impact on ‘gap-year’ waivers, but conceded DOE’s method for analyzing and recommending EPA reject the same waivers in earlier years hasn’t changed. Which gave (Dave) Loebsack (D-IA 2nd District) an opening. “Well,
by Stephanie Kelly (Reuters) U.S. lawmakers from Iowa are trying to add aid for the biofuels industry into a pending coronavirus relief package in the Senate, U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley said on Friday. Grassley and his Iowa colleague, Senator Joni Ernst, hope to include a subsidy for feedstock for the ethanol industry
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) … Just this week, Green Plains shifted one of their Nebraska facilities to make FCC grade alcohol to be used for producing hand sanitizer. Lactips developed a solution to produce water-soluble strips for sealing COVID-19 contaminated hospital linen bags. ENGlobal started providing the world’s
(Kansas Ag Connection/US AgNet) U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) are pressing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue to allow businesses that have received grants under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) to use grant funds to cover project costs incurred any time in
by Matt Thompson (Ethanol Producer Magazine) A novel engine technology could make it possible for ethanol to be used in compression-ignition engines, opening up a potential multi-billion-gallon market. With $3 million in financing secured, Clear Flame Engines is poised for commercialization. — It sounds almost too good to be true,
by Greg Henderson (Drovers) America’s economy is showing signs of recovery from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, but any economic surge is likely over, according to a quarterly report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange. “Economic data prior to the recent resurgence of coronavirus cases has shown a consistent, steady improvement in the U.S.
by Stephanie Kelly (Reuters) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has put on hold indefinitely a proposal for the amount of biofuels refiners must blend into their fuel next year, two sources familiar with the matter said. Many anticipated the proposal would come out in late June or early July. The EPA
(Office of Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX)) U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement on the nomination of Doug Benevento to be Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): “The price of RINs has more than quadrupled since the beginning of the year, and now sits around
by Timothy J. Rudnicki (Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) … That is why it is imperative for the Senate to include the financial aid package for the ethanol industry that was introduced by Sen. Chuck Grassley and Sen. Amy Klobuchar in the next COVID-19 relief bill. While this aid package is much needed
(Mankato Free Press) … Here’s what rural Minnesota does need: It needs clean water and subsidized wastewater systems. It needs good government that gets state and federal subsidies to provide a life that provides a solid base of services but few luxuries. It needs good roads that can support more traffic and
by Glenn Minnis (The Center Square) … The president was there to help industry executives celebrate his administration’s removal of a regulation that up until then prohibited companies from selling gasoline containing 15% ethanol year-round. “It was a terrific event for my company and the renewable fuels industry, drawing nearly
by Ronald Langston (Clinton Herald) … To truly increase the sale of E-15, Iowa’s leaders should help bring this home-grown fuel to every community in Iowa – “rural” and urban. Fuel Iowa estimates 85% of the retail fuel facilities do not have dispensing systems compatible with the sale of E-15. There
(Iowa Renewable Fuels Association) Failure to address tax differentials will raise fuel taxes for consumers, hurt farmers and producers — As Iowa’s elected leaders prepare to return to the State Capitol and wrap up the 2020 legislative session, Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) members urge legislators to take action on key
(Iowa State University) Tracking COVID-19’s economic impacts, especially in the state of Iowa, is now possible thanks to resources on a new web hub. The webpage “COVID-19 Pandemic: Research and Resources” developed by the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development and the Department of Economics at Iowa State University, examines the pandemic’s impacts
(Journal Standard) Adkins Energy LLC recently announced Aaron Folk, Kayla Runkle and Hannah Pickard as the recipients of this year’s scholarship awards. The scholarship provides each student with $500 scholarships to help them further their higher education. Entries for this year were judged on academic achievement and an essay answering the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … Leading the defenses is Joan of Ernst, er, Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa along with Tina Smith of Minnesota, Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Debbie Stabenow of Michigan. Two Republicans, two Democrats, now urging the Trump Administration to uphold the Renewable Fuel Standard and
(Farm Journal/AgWeb) Bankruptcies are rising and are expecting to increase due to problems associated with COVID-19. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, Chapter 12 family farm bankruptcies for the 12 month period ending in March totaled 627 filings. That’s a 23% increase from the previous 12 months. It also marks five
by Art Cullen (The Guardian/Storm Lake Times) … “A lot of voters wanted to believe Trump – that out there in Washington it’s all BS, and that a savvy businessman could straighten it out,” (Drake) Custer said. It’s hard for many to admit that it didn’t work out. A tragic comedy
(Office of Senator Joni Ernst) Ernst and her colleagues write, “We urge you to direct the EPA to reject all calls to waive the RFS. The RFS is more important now than ever as farmers, the biofuel sector, and rural America struggle to remain operating amid the COVID-19 crisis.” — U.S.
(Nexstar Media Wire/Fox40) Midwest lawmakers say biofuel producers should be getting the same support and protection as oil companies. Coronavirus shutdowns have slashed the demand for gasoline, and while the White House is pledging to buy 75 million barrels of oil, ethanol producers say their requests for help have gone ignored. “We’re
by Karl Plume (Reuters) Global commodities trader Cargill Inc [CARG.UL] starting this spring will pay American farmers for capturing carbon in their field soils and cutting fertilizer runoff, an executive said. The Soil & Water Outcomes Fund, a partnership with the Iowa Soybean Association and third-party verification company Quantified Ventures,
by Rhiannon Branch (Brownfield Ag News) A University of Illinois ag economist says he does not expect a bounce back from ethanol demand destruction anytime soon. “I think it’s going to be a long, hard road to recovery.” Todd Hubbs tells Brownfield COVID-19 related stay at home orders have dropped ethanol production
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Rep. Abby Finkenauer, D-Iowa, on April 28 announced the introduction of the Clean Fuels Deployment Act of 2020. The bill aims to provide funding for installing and converting fuel pump infrastructure to deliver higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel. The bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by
by Austin Cannon (Des Moines Register) The domino effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are widespread, but here’s a peculiar one: Having fewer cars on the road has caused a shortage of a crucial component at Iowa’s water treatment plants. Follow along: Across the country, people are staying home to avoid
by Kelby Wingert (The Messenger) … With fewer cars on the roads, fewer people commuting to work and fewer families traveling for vacations, gasoline prices across the nation began to drop. And while consumers at the pump are enjoying the lowest gas prices in a decade, the nation’s ethanol biofuels industry
(Renewable Fuels Association) As the COVID-19 pandemic and crude oil glut continue to ravage world fuel markets, U.S. ethanol sales in 2020 could fall by more than $10 billion and the industry’s contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) could drop by nearly one-third, according to a new analysis released today by the Renewable
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) … “We are surviving day by day,” Peterson (Chris Peterson, president of Hero BX) said. “All our people are still employed.” According to Peterson, Hero BX owner Pat Black strives to provide stability for his staff to assure them with confidence that, no matter what
by Jenna Higgins Rose (River Cities’ Reader) Iowa Biodiesel Board points to successful state policies behind growth — A report released by the Iowa Department of Revenue shows biodiesel-blended fuel represented 69.9 percent of the total reported sales of on-road diesel last year in Iowa. Furthermore, blends of 11–20 percent biodiesel
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) The Midwestern Clean Fuels Initiative, facilitated by the Great Plains Institute, is a broad coalition of fuels producers and marketers, nonprofit and research organizations, scientists and engineers, and agriculture and industry stakeholders. The coalition works to create economic benefits for the region through policy,
by Kurtis Harms (Nebraska Corn Board/KNEB) Motorists living near or traveling through Lexington now have opportunities to refuel their vehicles with higher blends of ethanol. Through an infrastructure development program, the Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) provided Country Partners Cooperative with grant dollars to convert four existing fuel pumps into blender pumps
(The Hagstrom Report/The Fence Post) Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said today that he will send a letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue urging him to use the Commodity Credit Corporation to help the ethanol industry. Grassley said he did not know exactly how the ethanol industry should
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) At last week’s Digest webinar, Mark Laurenzo from the Iowa Economic Development Authority shared this illuminating presentation on Iowa’s key value propositions, activity from the biosciences industry in the state where bioscience R&D expenditures per capita is 30% higher than the national figure, how there
(The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association/Biodiesel Magazine) Iowa’s spring planting season is just around the corner and Renewable Energy Group’s biodiesel plant near Newton is getting a head start with a unique kind of planting. Local Pheasants Forever representatives recently conducted a seeding of native grasses, milkweed and other plants that attract pollinators.
by Alex Snodgrass (Independent Commodity Intelligence Service) US fuel ethanol producer and refiner Valero is closing two of its ethanol plants and declaring force majeure on shipments of dried distillers grains or corn purchases, according to sources. The force majeure is due to lack of storage availability for corn or ethanol
(Renewable Fuels Association) The number of fuel stations now offering Flex Fuel E85 has reached an important milestone, as a Casey’s store in Ankeny, Iowa, became the 5,000th station nationwide to sell E85. While offering significantly lower emissions than traditional fuel, the E85 flex fuel blend also offers a price advantage
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … In response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) created exemptions allowing certain alcohol fuel permit holders to sell ethanol (alcohol) for use in the production of hand sanitizers. Consequently. Aemetis, Inc. said its 65 million
(Iowa Renewable Fuels Association) Many of the often-touted benefits of biodiesel – from cleaner air and reduced carbon emissions to high-paying jobs in rural communities – benefit the next generation beyond all others. In recognition of the important role students and young professionals will play in the future of the biodiesel