by Todd Neeley (DTN The Progressive Farmer) As debate rages on about whether the price of biofuels credits in the Renewable Fuel Standard are putting small refiners out of business, a little-known analysis by a Harvard University economics professor last summer
Reid vapor pressure (RVP)
Back TO HOMEQUOTE OF THE WEEK
The biofuels-related portion of the 2018 election campaign season is off to a quick start with Jeff Broin, founder and CEO of POET, making a case for including the expansion of ethanol markets via year-round consumer choice of E15 across the
February 02, 2018 Read Full Article
Broin Brings E15 Message to Pence Summit at Trump Hotel
(The Fence Post/Hagstrom Report) Jeff Broin, founder and CEO of POET, the South Dakota company that builds and manages ethanol plants, brought his view that the government needs to authorize the sale of E15 blend year-round to a State of the
February 02, 2018 Read Full Article
Reaction to President Trump’s SOTU
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) President Donald Trump did mention energy in his first State of the Union address, albeit briefly. “We have ended the war on American energy, and we have ended the war on beautiful clean coal,” said the president. “We are
January 31, 2018 Read Full Article
U.S. EPA Hopes to Decide Soon on Ethanol Waiver: Administrator
by Timothy Gardner (Reuters) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt said on Tuesday that his agency hopes to decide soon whether it has the legal authority to issue national waiver on selling of motor fuel containing 15 percent ethanol during
January 31, 2018 Read Full Article
RFA’s 2018 Biofuel Priorities to Help ‘Make America Great Again’
by Bob Dinneen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... This new era of getting our country back on track has and will continue to extend into the biofuels industry, making sure we are providing the cleanest, lowest-cost and highest-octane fuels at the pump.
January 23, 2018 Read Full Article
My Voice: A ‘Swing and a Miss’ from the USDA
by Doug Sombke (Argus Leader/South Dakota Farmers Union) Our esteemed U.S. Department of Agriculture recently released a report of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity. While it is hard to get excited over any government report, I had high hopes
January 18, 2018 Read Full Article
Grassley Marks Policy, Oversight Accomplishments in 2017
(North Iowa Today) Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa marked a series of policy and oversight accomplishments in 2017. ... Grassley introduced the Food Security is National Security Act of 2017, which would give top U.S. agriculture and food officials permanent representation on the Committee
January 04, 2018 Read Full Article
Summary of Accomplishments
by Brian Jennings (American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... ACE believes the best way to grow demand well into the future is to harness the low-carbon, high-octane value of ethanol. That’s why we were very encouraged that for the first
January 03, 2018 Read Full Article
Delivering ‘Big League’
by Emily Skor (Growth Energy/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... While we haven’t yet achieved Reid vapor pressure (RVP) parity for E15 and higher blends, we made dramatic headway by broadening our base of supporters and positioning retailers as the new face of
January 03, 2018 Read Full Article
Inside Insight
by Lisa Gibson (Ethanol Producer Magazine) To kick off the new year, we rounded up a few experts to discuss five main industry topics: exports, policy, production, finance and technology. Find out what they said. -- As we head into 2018, ethanol
December 27, 2017 Read Full Article
Top 17 for 2017
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) 2017 was a roller coaster year. There was a paradigm shift in biofuels, technology advancements, innovations abounded, politics chaotic. Some companies shut down and disappeared like the Hobo vanishing in the snow atop the Polar
December 26, 2017 Read Full Article
The Biofuels Industry Reacts to White House RFS Meetings
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) President Trump has hosted two meetings in recent weeks with Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and others focused on the Renewable Fuel Standard and renewable identification numbers (RINs). Those representing the biofuels industry are speaking out
December 22, 2017 Read Full Article
Discussing the Importance of Ethanol
by Dan Crisler (Watertown Public Opinion) Glacial Lakes Corn Processors welcomed a strong ethanol advocate in Emily Skor at its annual meeting Wednesday afternoon at the Codington County Extension Complex. Skor, the CEO of Washington, D.C.-based ethanol trade association Growth
December 08, 2017 Read Full Article
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"If our gasoline composition is right then ethanol can work," said Alfonso Martinez, undersecretary of protection of the environment and natural resources in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, in a phone interview with S&P Global Platts. "We have nothing against ethanol, we
November 28, 2017 Read Full Article
Feature: Mexican Ethanol Optimism Returns after States Ask for Ban Repeal
by Josh Pedrick (Platts) The Mexican ethanol market could have more room to grow as the states of Nuevo Leon and Jalisco have asked for a repeal of a ban on ethanol blending in their principal cities of Monterrey and Guadalajara, respectively. ... Mexico
November 28, 2017 Read Full Article
Ethanol Industry Focuses on RVP Waiver for E15
by Ken Anderson (Brownfield Ag News) Giving consumers year-round access to E15 fuel is a major focus of the ethanol industry. Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says getting the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver extended to E15 is the key. “You give
November 15, 2017 Read Full Article
Letter from Washington: The Grand Alliance Flashes V for Victory in Renewable Fuels Fight
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) It’s been a very busy week in Washington DC, the high point being a letter to seven senators sent late Thursday by EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt, who took significant (and as of a few days ago,
October 25, 2017 Read Full Article
Feature: Mexican Ethanol Blending Faces Legal Hurdles Following Injunction
by Josh Pedrick and Silvia Struthers (Platts) A future that once looked rosy for climbing ethanol blends with gasoline in Mexico could be in jeopardy as legal challenges to a new fuel regulation have found traction in court. A Mexican federal judge has issued
October 24, 2017 Read Full Article
E20 for the EU?
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) A recent study by the European Commission Directorate-General for Climate Action identifies E20 as the optimal ethanol blend for the EU. The study, which outlines an extensive economic and environmental analysis of increasing biofuel blends, said biofuel blends are crucial
October 12, 2017 Read Full Article
Ethanol Groups Comment on CAFE-GHG Standards
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy and American Coalition for Ethanol have all submitted public comments to U.S. EPA and National Highway Transportation Safety Administration stressing the benefits of high-octane ethanol fuels in response to
October 10, 2017 Read Full Article
ACE Partners on EPA Smart Sectors Program
(American Coalition for Ethanol) The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) announces its participation in the Environmental Protection Agency’s Smart Sectors program launched today to provide a platform for collaboration with regulated sectors to help the agency develop forward-thinking ways to improve
October 03, 2017 Read Full Article
ACE Congratulates Jetz on Addition of E15, E85 at Second Location
(American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The American Coalition for Ethanol congratulates Jetz Convenience Centers for the addition of new ethanol blender pumps at its station in Muskego, Wisconsin. A grand opening event will take place Sept. 26 from 4
September 26, 2017 Read Full Article
Fact Sheet: The Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act: Environmental, Health & Consumer Considerations
by Jesse Stolark (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) Today, 10 percent of the U.S. gasoline supply is provided by renewable fuel, primarily ethanol. Increasing the use of renewable fuel, which is more sustainable and less polluting than gasoline, will require
September 19, 2017 Read Full Article
Ethanol Report on E15 Hurricane Help
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Fuel disruptions due to Hurricane Harvey were mitigated somewhat, thanks to an early end to the summer restriction on sales of E15 (15% ethanol fuel) that helped offset gasoline supply shortfalls and limit fuel price spikes. In this edition
September 15, 2017 Read Full Article
Are High Ethanol Blends Going to Be Essential, and Mandatory, for Super High Fuel-Efficient Engines?
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Now, war is surely about to break out over E25-E30 blending, now that RFA CEO Bob Dinneen testified in DC in his courtly but adamant manner that a high-octane, low-carbon ethanol blend in optimized engines would
September 14, 2017 Read Full Article
Over 150 Biofuels Champions in D.C. Today to Kick Off Industry’s Largest Advocacy Summit
(Growth Energy) Growth Energy is holding its annual advocacy conference in Washington, D.C., this week, bringing together over 150 leaders in the ethanol industry from across the country to champion the association’s policy priorities on Capitol Hill. During Growth Energy’s Biofuels
September 13, 2017 Read Full Article
Ethanol Industry Wants EPA to Ease Fuel Restrictions to Reduce Price Spikes in Harvey's Wake
by John Siciliano (Washington Examiner) The ethanol industry pressed the Environmental Protection Agency on Monday to relax fuel restrictions nationwide to blend more of the corn-based fuel in the gasoline supply to reduce the threat of price spikes in the
August 29, 2017 Read Full Article
Message and Messenger
by Brian Jennings (American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... That’s what ACE’s Power by People campaign is about: Putting a human face on ethanol; making connections with people on their terms; appealing to people’s hearts in addition to their minds.
August 29, 2017 Read Full Article
Behind the Battle for Octane
by Denton Cinquegrana (Oil Price Information Service(OPIS)) What you need to know as the refining, agricultural and auto industries gear up to vie for their piece of a multi-billion-dollar market -- Premium gasoline has clearly become a sought-after commodity for U.S.
August 22, 2017 Read Full Article
Don’t Change Horses in the Middle of the River
by Brent Erickson (Biotechnology Innovation Organization/Biofuels Digest) We were disappointed, but not surprised, to see Mike McAdams and his members come out in support of changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard in Biofuels Digest (July 26 – The Time Has Come for RFS
August 22, 2017 Read Full Article
Tested, Proven and Driven – Ethanol Moving Forward
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The American Coalition for Ethanol celebrated its 30th annual conference this week by highlighting recent victories for the industry and embracing the challenges moving forward. “We’re as close as we’ve ever been to getting Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) relief
August 18, 2017 Read Full Article
Inside the Cellulosic Industry
by Susanne Retka Schill and Ann Bailey (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Ethanol Producer Magazine provides an update on 10 cellulosic ethanol projects around the world striving for continuous, large-scale production. -- Some things have changed in the U.S.’s cellulosic ethanol sector in
August 04, 2017 Read Full Article
Steelworkers No Fans of E15
by Anthony Adragna (Politico's Morning Energy) The United Steelworkers fear Sen. Deb Fischer's bill to allow year-round sale of 15 percent ethanol fuel could allow more smog. The union sent a letter Thursday to all 100 senators arguing that the RFS
July 07, 2017 Read Full Article
Iowa Ethanol Supporters Push for Expanded E15 Access
by Rod Swoboda (Wallaces Farmer) Proponents call on Congress to support legislation to remove barriers to make E15 ethanol blend available year-round. -- The U.S. Senate is considering legislation that would change the language in a federal regulation that currently
July 07, 2017 Read Full Article
Ethanol Is Not Subsidized, Is Good Choice for All
by Mark M. Palmer (Renewable Fuels Nebraska/The Grand Island Independent) Gerald Kosmicki’s June 25 letter attacking U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer for supporting ethanol displayed a complete lack of knowledge regarding current fuel economics. Unfortunately, many people like Mr. Kosmicki still
June 28, 2017 Read Full Article
Trump’s Comments Please Ethanol Industry
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The ethanol industry was thrilled with President Donald Trump’s visit to Iowa this week where he put agriculture and biofuels in the spotlight. “We’re here today to talk about how we’re going to empower America’s farmers and
June 23, 2017 Read Full Article
Biotechnology Innovation Organization and Advanced Biofuels Business Council Ask Senators to Support Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act
(Biofuels Journal) More than 25 advanced biofuel producers and trade associations today sent a letter to members of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, asking them to support the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act (S.517), the Biotechnology Innovation
June 13, 2017 Read Full Article
Biofuel Revamp Debate Powers Up, Includes Higher Ethanol Blends
by Brian Dabbs (Bloomberg BNA) Long-awaited efforts to modify biofuel policy are entering the limelight across Capitol Hill. A Senate panel will host a hearing next week on a bill to allow summer sales of vehicle fuel with high concentrations of
June 13, 2017 Read Full Article
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“Here we have EPA agreeing that higher ethanol blends can reduce emissions and acknowledging that engines and fuels must be looked at as an integrated system. Adjusting compression to address the slightly lower energy content of ethanol while taking advantage
June 06, 2017 Read Full Article
Ethanol's Biggest Advocate May Be EPA
(Urban Air Initiative) In plot twist that may open the door to higher ethanol blends, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) received an engine patent it has been pursuing for nearly a decade for a high efficiency, high compression
June 06, 2017 Read Full Article
Corn Ethanol Faces Its Limits under EPA Fuel Mandate
by John Siciliano (Washington Examiner) Corn ethanol has reached its official limit under the Environmental Protection Agency's renewable fuel program, which means other less-developed, low-carbon fuels will have to step up to fill a 21 billion-gallon gap by 2022. ... Under the
June 05, 2017 Read Full Article
Forced Summer Hiatus Begins for E15
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) It’s June 1st, which means the kids are out of school, the pools are open, and E15 pumps in two-thirds of the nation are shutting down. Today marks the official beginning of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA)
June 01, 2017 Read Full Article
10 Industrial Biotechnology Wave Trends to Watch
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) There are news items, then there are trends, and finally there are wave trends — trends of critical importance and that carry the likelihood of having long-lasting impact. Like the fast ripples that presage a fearsome tsunami,
May 26, 2017 Read Full Article
Congress: E15 Waiver Hearing Still Coming and First Step on RFS Reform
by Anthony Adragna (Politico's Morning Energy) It's not scheduled yet, but Senate EPW Chairman John Barrasso told reporters Wednesday that legislation allow year-round sale of gasoline blends with 15 percent ethanol would still get an EPW markup. "We haven't sent a
May 25, 2017 Read Full Article
We Need a Disruption to Grow
by David VanderGriend (Ethanol Producer Magazine/Urban Air Initiative/ICM) ... Urban Air Initiative will be part of a group with diverse perspectives on what can be done to disrupt the establishment in order to access higher blends. These experts will address how
May 24, 2017 Read Full Article
EPA Can Improve Its Implementation of the Renewable Fuel Standard in 6 Ways: BIO
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization called on the US EPA to “improve its implementation of RFS,” and noted six key improvements. issue its annual Renewable Volume Obligations (RVO) under the RFS on time; interpret
May 22, 2017 Read Full Article
Updated Fuel Regulations Would Modernize Options at Gas Pumps
by Mike Lorenz (The Hill/Sheetz) Since the founding of Sheetz in 1952, “choice” for our customers and innovation have been central to our mission. ... Since choice and a total focus on our customers is central to who we are, it only makes
May 19, 2017 Read Full Article
Biofuel Groups Ask EPA to Ease Regulatory Burdens
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Several biofuel trade groups have filed comments with the U.S. EPA asking for changes to regulations that are hindering the growth of U.S. ethanol production and use. On Feb 24, President Donald Trump released Executive
May 17, 2017 Read Full Article
Icahn’s Pig in a Poke
by Brent Erickson (Biotechnology Innovation Organization/Biofuels Digest) Members of the U.S. Senate are questioning whether Carl Icahn’s lobbying to change the Renewable Fuel Standard creates an ethics conflict with his role as advisor in the Trump administration. In addition to
May 11, 2017 Read Full Article
RFA Fires Back at Boat Makers over E15 Claims
by Jason Huffman (Politico's Morning Agriculture) The Renewable Fuels Association has kicked off an advertising campaign intended to combat lobbying efforts by the National Marine Manufacturers Association against mandated blending rates. NMMA is expected to use a fly in next
May 09, 2017 Read Full Article
Pruitt Considering Senate-Sought Ethanol Waiver
by Anthony Adragna (Politico's Morning Energy) EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt may have opened a path for Senate Republicans to appease a small bloc of their caucus seeking a year-round waiver to sell 15 percent ethanol fuel and thereby boost the chamber’s
May 09, 2017 Read Full Article
Ethanol Report on Trade Issues and Trump Administration
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) ... In this episode, we get a Washington update from Renewable Fuels Association president and CEO Bob Dinneen, focusing on recent trade developments and the Trump Administration. Dinneen comments on President Trump’s first 100 days, the
May 08, 2017 Read Full Article
Renewable Fuels Are Part of an ‘America First’ Energy Plan
by Brian Jennings (The Hill/American Coalition for Ethanol) ... By every measure, increasing the production and use of homegrown renewable fuels has spurred economic growth for U.S. farmers and supported high-skill, high-wage jobs in rural communities. When the use of renewable
May 04, 2017 Read Full Article
Renewable Fuel Grows, Sets Records
by Lynn Grooms (Agri-View) Supply and demand of renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel are expected to continue their rise this year despite continued challenges and uncertainties. Executives from organizations representing renewable-fuel producers recently provided insights into the opportunities and
May 03, 2017 Read Full Article
Methane Rule Repeal Hits Snag in Senate Over Ethanol
by Jennifer A Dlouhy and Ari Natter (Bloomberg Markets) Midwest Republicans didn’t get policy change in omnibus; Lawmakers now withholding support for methane rule repeal -- A top oil industry priority on Capitol Hill may fall victim to an unrelated dispute
May 03, 2017 Read Full Article
ACE Urges Ethanol Advocates to Participate in EPA Regulatory Reform Comment Period
(American Coalition for Ethanol) The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) submitted a public comment focused on its ethanol priorities soon after EPA formally began seeking input on existing regulations to be reviewed by its newly established Regulatory Reform Task Force.
May 01, 2017 Read Full Article
Consumers and Farmers Burned by EPA Regulations on Renewable Fuel
by Bob Dinneen (The Hill) As the days grow longer and the mercury rises, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) should take action to eliminate an irrational summertime regulation that hurts both farmers and millions of Americans who drive a car. This double
April 27, 2017 Read Full Article
Biofuels Supporters, Opponents Spar During EPA Teleconference
by Michael Schneider (Oil Price Information Service) Supporters and opponents of biofuels expressed predictably contrasting viewpoints during a teleconference held today by EPA's Office of Air and Radiation (OAR). The call was held to solicit input on regulations OAR oversees that could
April 25, 2017 Read Full Article
ACE Outlines Ethanol Priorities to EPA on Regulatory Reform Agenda
(KTIC Radio) The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) submitted a public comment addressed to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt thanking him for establishing a Regulatory Reform Task Force to evaluate existing regulations and make recommendations regarding those that can be
April 14, 2017 Read Full Article
Trump on Ethanol: Supportive, but Few Comments
by Patrick Anderson (Argus Leader) President Donald Trump has never tweeted about ethanol. In the course of tens of thousands of posts on his social media platform of choice, the president has posted about oil about 150 times, about Rosie
April 11, 2017 Read Full Article
Nebraska Farmers Make the Case for Higher Blends of Ethanol
by Steve White (Nebraska.TV) Pres. Trump says he wants to end job–killing regulations on ethanol, and area farmers suggest a good place to start. “Allow E15 to be sold as normal gasoline, moving forward with that is going to be great for
April 07, 2017 Read Full Article
ACE Takes RVP Message to Hill
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The American Coalition for Ethanol 9th annual DC fly-in last week brought the “Power by People” message to Capitol Hill, focused on allowing the sale of 15 percent ethanol blends all year long in every part of
April 04, 2017 Read Full Article
DC’s Climate Change: Renewables Adapting to Shifting Political Weather
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Over at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, new lab director Martin Keller told the Colorado Solar Energy Industries Association that “renewable energy needs a new story to tell.” The Denver Business Journal’s Cathy Proctor reported
March 23, 2017 Read Full Article
Economists: Octane Premium Offsets Ethanol Energy Penalty
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Ethanol critics bash the fuel for its lower energy value than gasoline, while ethanol supporters point to its octane-boosting properties. University of Illinois ag economists Scott Irwin and Darrel Good analyze the value
March 20, 2017 Read Full Article
Smith and Loebsack Introduce Bill to Broaden Fuel Choices for Retailers and Consumers
(Office of Congressman Adrian Smith) Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Congressman Dave Loebsack (D-IA) reintroduced legislation today to broaden fuel choices for retailers and consumers by expanding the existing waiver of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations related to the Reid
March 07, 2017 Read Full Article
Governors Press Trump: Coalition Asks for Ethanol Policy Changes
by Todd Neeley (DTN The Progressive Farmer) The Governors' Biofuels Coalition on Monday asked President Donald Trump to support a number of changes to federal law to support biofuels production. In a letter signed by Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts, chairman of
March 07, 2017 Read Full Article
Senate Bill Introduced to Give E15 Year-Round Market Presence
(Ethanol Producer Magazine) A bipartisan trio of Senators introduced a bill today that would extend the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver to ethanol blends above 10 percent, a move that would give E15 year-round market presence. Sens. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Joe
March 06, 2017 Read Full Article
Ethanol Battle Escalates Amid Rumors of RFA-Icahn Deal
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) (R)umors of a deal surfaced between the Renewable Fuels Association and Carl Icahn, shifting renewable fuel obligations away from oil refiners, in return for Icahn’s support for a Reid Vapor Pressure waiver for E15 ethanol that
February 28, 2017 Read Full Article
No Waiver? No Sense.
by Ann Bailey (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The ethanol industry sees one-pound waiver for E15 as a no-brainer. -- Perplexed about why E15 does not get a one-pound waiver? That’s a sign you clearly understand the issue, says Monte Shaw, Iowa
February 20, 2017 Read Full Article
RFA Suggests Retool for REGS
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) In comments submitted this week on the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support (REGS) rule, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) said the proposal fails to address key regulatory barriers that are constraining growth
February 17, 2017 Read Full Article
No Playbook on Renewable Fuels in Trump Huddle
by Douglas Durante (Clean Fuels Development Coalition/Midwest Producer) ... No issue has received more early scrutiny than the Renewable Fuel Standard as pundits speculate how Mr. Trump can honor campaign promises to fully support ethanol while some of his well-heeled oil supporters
January 05, 2017 Read Full Article
RFA Optimistic about Ethanol in 2017 (and other opinions)
by Andy Eubank (Hoosier Ag Today) ... “One that comes readily to mind is the disparate treatment of E10 and E15 and other high level blends with respect to evaporative vapor control, RVP. Right now E10 and E15 are treated differently
January 04, 2017 Read Full Article
Nebraska Congressman to Continue Push for More E-15 Sales
by Brent Martin (Nebraska Radio Network) ... Congressman Adrian Smith says the move helps the ethanol industry, but he adds more can be done. “I’m continuing to work on a bill that I introduced some time ago that would allow, not mandate,
December 13, 2016 Read Full Article
EPA Holds RFS Rule Hearing in Chicago
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The Environmental Protection Agency held a public hearing in Chicago yesterday to hear testimony the agency’s proposed Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support (REGS) rule. The rule includes several actions that would help allow the market to
December 08, 2016 Read Full Article
Biofuels Groups Make Case for Change on E15
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) A number of biofuels groups testified before the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Chicago Tuesday at a hearing on an agency proposal to make some tweaks to the Renewable Fuel Standard to help perpetuate
December 07, 2016 Read Full Article
Growth Energy Testifies to EPA Regarding Renewable Enhancement and Growth Support Rule
(Growth Energy) Today, at a hearing in Chicago, Chris Bliley, Director of Regulatory Affairs for Growth Energy testified before the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the Renewable Enhancement and Growth Support (REGS) Rule. During his testimony, Bliley outlined Growth Energy’s concern
December 06, 2016 Read Full Article
#Ethanol Groups Support Trump’s Election
by Joanna Schroeder (Energy.AgWired.com) Donald Trump has been elected as 45th President of the United States. In response to the news, several ethanol groups, on behalf of the industry, are sending out their congratulations. “The president-elect repeatedly expressed strong support for
November 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Time to Rein in the EPA
by Dale Christensen (Glacial Lakes Corn Processors/The Hill) ... EPA has either through ignorance at best or malice at worst failed to make our continued transition to cleaner, renewable fuels an easier path. Recall the nearly decade old problem with setting
November 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Biofuels Finance Conference Meets in Minneapolis
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... The lame duck Congress offers the next best chance for some movement on one issue important to the ethanol industry, said Brian Jennings, executive vice president of the American Coalition for Ethanol, in his
October 24, 2016 Read Full Article
EPA Releases Ethanol Flex Fuel Rule/(REGS) Rule
(Fuel Marketer News) Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released their proposed rule for Ethanol Flex Fuel and Renewable Enhancement and Growth Support (REGS) Rule. This proposal intends to provide regulatory clarification for ethanol blends from 16 percent to 50
October 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Summer Is Over: Bring on the Pumpkin Spice and the E15
by Rebecca Chillrud (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) September 22 marks the autumnal equinox and the official end of summer. But for approximately 330 gas retailers, the season ended last week, on September 16—a day celebrated as “E15 Day” in
September 23, 2016 Read Full Article
New DOE Study: Gas Becomes “Stale” Long Before Water Uptake Becomes a Concern
(Renewable Fuels Association) As millions of Americans say goodbye to summer and prepare to store their boats, motorcycles, lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and other equipment for the winter, a new study by the Department of Energy (DOE) is providing fresh
September 21, 2016 Read Full Article
ACE Ad Buy Urges Congress to Act on RVP Legislation
(American Coalition for Ethanol) The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) kicked-off a two week ad campaign today in Environment & Energy Publishing (E&E), a Washington DC-based media outlet with five daily online publications and a daily video webcast for energy
September 21, 2016 Read Full Article
Consumers Ability to Choose #E15 Back at the Pumps
by Joanna Schroeder (Energy.AgWired.com) Consumers will have the choice to purchase E15 at the pump again tomorrow, September 15, 2016. For drivers owning a 2001 or newer vehicle, E15 sales are restricted during summer months due to an arcane U.S.
September 14, 2016 Read Full Article
7 Governors Ask EPA to Remove RVP Limit on E15
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) On Sept. 13, the governors of Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota sent a letter to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy asking her to remove the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) limit
September 14, 2016 Read Full Article
Growth’s Manning Talks #E15 Market Access
by Joanna Schroeder (Energy.AgWired.com) ... Today there are over 300 retail stations offering E15 in 25 states and by the end of 2017 there will be a 1,000 retailers offering E15. This will mean, says Manning, there will be around 5,000
September 09, 2016 Read Full Article
How to Sell E15 by Any Other Name
by Samantha Oller (CSP Daily News) Have I got a fuel for you! It is higher octane than E10, giving you greater bang for your buck. It features even more environmentally friendly, domestically produced ethanol. And it is actually a
September 08, 2016 Read Full Article
Ernst, Branstad, QCCP Discuss the Future of Renewable Fuels
(Quad County Corn Processors/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad recently met with staff and board members from Quad County Corn Processors and representatives from Syngenta, the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association and the Iowa Corn Growers
September 02, 2016 Read Full Article
E15 Sales Fall because of RVP
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) As expected E15 sales in Minnesota fell in June as a result of the EPA-imposed Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) season, which bars the sale of E15 from June 1 to Sept 15. ... ... the key highlight of the
August 31, 2016 Read Full Article
It Is Time to Address RVP
by Mike Lorenz (Sheetz) Back in 1990, Congress limited the amount of evaporative emissions from vehicle fuel at 9 pounds per square inch (psi) Reid vapor pressure (RVP) in the Clean Air Act. While pure ethanol has a 3 psi
August 23, 2016 Read Full Article
Reflections on What Could Have Been
by Ray Defenbaugh (Urban Air Initiative/Big River Resources/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Ah, summertime ..., and the livin' is easy, as the song says. But if not for the U.S. EPA, it could have been even easier. Easier on our customers, easier on
August 16, 2016 Read Full Article
U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst and Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad to Visit Quad County Corn Processors
(Pilot Tribune) United States Senator Joni Ernst and Iowa Governor Terry Branstad will visit Quad County Corn Processors cellulosic ethanol production facility in Galva on Wednesday, August 31st at 9:15 am. Senator Ernst and Governor Branstad will tour Quad County's state-of-the-art
August 15, 2016 Read Full Article
Does the U.S. EPA Not Want Biofuels?
by Nathan Vander Griend (ERI Solutions, Inc./Lee Enterprises Consulting/Biofuels Digest) The United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) mission is to protect human health and the environment. They are charged with delivering on that mission by using the best scientific information
August 05, 2016 Read Full Article
Nearly 42,500 Comments Filed on 2017 RFS Proposal
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The comment period on the U.S. EPA’s proposed rule to set 2017 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the renewable fuel standard (RFS), along with 2018 RVOs for biomass-based diesel, has officially closed. According to information
July 18, 2016 Read Full Article
Repeat After Me: High Octane, Low Carbon
by David VanderGriend (Urban Air Initiative/ICM/Governors' Biofuel Coalition) The signs are everywhere highlighting our product and how it can find its true value as an octane enhancer while lowering carbon emissions. Using our research at the Urban Air Initiative and in conjunction with
July 18, 2016 Read Full Article
ACE Submits Comments to EPA on 2017 RFS
(Fuel Marketer News) The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the proposed blending volumes for 2017 under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). ACE’s full comments can be read on the ACE website.
July 15, 2016 Read Full Article
The E15 Perspective from Those Marketing the Fuel
by Maura Keller (Fuel Marketer News) ... The argument among those marketers and retailers that have embraced the fuel is that E15 fuel allows them to market a cleaner-burning, higher-octane fuel that can technically be used by more than 200 million cars
May 12, 2016 Read Full Article
Inaction in Congress Helping Ethanol Right Now
by Chris Clayton (DTN The Progressive Farmer) ... Ethanol also remains stuck in a battle with EPA over vapor pressure with 15% ethanol over the summer months. 10% ethanol, E10, has such a waiver so it can be sold during the
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
How Reid Vapor Pressure Impacts #Ethanol
by Cindy Zimmerman (DomesticFuel.com) ... American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) senior vice president Ron Lamberty gave a brief lesson on RVP to attendees at the organization’s annual legislative fly-in this week as they prepared to visit lawmakers and ask them to
April 15, 2016 Read Full Article
Barbecues, Beaches and E15? You Bet
by Bob Dinneen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... Nearly 30 years ago, the U.S. EPA provided a 1-pound-per-square-inch (psi) waiver of the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) volatility requirements for certain ethanol blends. It did so in recognition of the fact that lower
April 14, 2016 Read Full Article
The Highway to High Octane: Ethanol's Attempts to Gain Ground in US Gasoline
by Herman Wang and Jeff Bair (Platts) Capitol Crude: The US Oil Policy Podcast -- The US is likely to raise its gasoline octane standard over the next decade or so, which has the ethanol industry shifting into high gear
February 23, 2016 Read Full Article
Ethanol and the Race to Higher Octane Standards in the US: Fuel for Thought
by Herman Wang (Platts) With the US likely to raise the gasoline octane standard in the next decade or so to achieve greenhouse-gas emissions regulations and fuel efficiency targets, the domestic ethanol industry is promoting its product as the most cost-effective
February 22, 2016 Read Full Article
Senate Energy Bill Sees Several Renewable Fuel Amendments
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) On January 27, the Senate began consideration of the Energy Policy Modernization Act (S. 2012). The bill was shepherded through the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee by Chair Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Ranking Member Maria
February 01, 2016 Read Full Article
Growing Beyond the RFS to Drive Demand for Ethanol
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) ... “The RFS helped kick start the significant volumes of ethanol production we see today, but we cannot rely on the RFS to ensure a continued market,” Durante (Doug Durante, Clean Fuels Development Coalition (CFDC) executive
January 27, 2016 Read Full Article
New White Paper Identifies Opportunities for Increased Ethanol Demand: Growing Beyond the RFS Keys on Regulatory Relief
(Ethanol Across America) Despite the effectiveness of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) in providing an entry ramp to the fuel market, the potential for corn ethanol to contribute to meeting a range of public policy objectives has only scratched the
January 18, 2016 Read Full Article
RFA Comments on DOE’s Innovative “Optima” Program
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy (EERE) had a call for information on Co-Optimization of Fuels and Engines (Optima). The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) submitted comments stating that the Association agrees that “co-optimization of future
January 14, 2016 Read Full Article
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts Become 2016 Chairmen of Governors’ Biofuels Coalition
(Governors' Biofuels Coalition) The Coalition announced today that Missouri Governor Jay Nixon will become chairman and Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts will become vice chairman of Governors’ Biofuels Coalition this year. “For more than 20 years, the Governors’ Biofuels Coalition has worked
January 11, 2016 Read Full Article
RFA to EPA: New Gasoline Volatility Regulations Needed
(Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) In a letter submitted Dec. 8 to the U.S. EPA, the Renewable Fuels Association urged the agency to take immediate administrative action to eliminate an arcane regulatory barrier that is impeding growth in the use
December 09, 2015 Read Full Article
The Birth of SuperDuper Gasoline via Earth-Friendly Renewable Hydrocarbons
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Move over Super, here comes SuperDuper. All the high octane and performance, and the renewability too, at a price you can afford. Biofuels are adding options for drop-in, low-carbon, super-perfornance gasoline via isooctane and isooctene,
September 30, 2015 Read Full Article
Poll: 7 in 10 Iowans Want to Benefit from E15 Ethanol Savings
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Iowa, consumers showed their enthusiasm toward E15 in a recent poll conducted by the Tarrance Group, where respondents overwhelmingly supported the use of E15. When participants were asked if they would consider using E15
September 21, 2015 Read Full Article
EPA’s 'MOVES' Could Cripple Higher Ethanol Blends
by Dave VanderGriend (Ethanol Producer Magazine/ICM/Urban Air Initiative) ... The RFS is very important to our industry, but focusing on it alone, has caused us to take our eye off the dealer. The down card trumps everything in the deck and it’s
August 17, 2015 Read Full Article
Industry’s Withering Critique of EPA’s Renewable Fuel Standard Proposals for 2014, 2015, 2016: The Digested Version
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Heard dire comments like “POET expects to stop all future U.S. cellulosic investments if EPA’s proposed base renewable fuel requirements are not strengthened.” Want to understand the substantive concerns on the Renewable Fuel Standard, but
July 31, 2015 Read Full Article
Up with Octane and Down with Aromatics: Continuing Health Risks with Petroleum Fuels and the Need for Engine Efficiency
by Bill Brandon (Leaders in Energy) Our country has seen many transitions in travel technologies and fuels. In the first installment I reviewed our transition from 1) barley and oats for our horses and mules to high carbohydrate corn for
June 25, 2015 Read Full Article
Shatter the Blend Wall with High Performance Bio-Gasoline
by David Gogerty and Ronan Rocle (Global Bioenergies/Biofuels Digest) ... And there are indeed interesting developments: using new synthetic biology techniques, we can now target the best-of-the-best in gasoline molecules—isooctane. This high-performance fuel, which is expected to be produced by fermentation at
June 15, 2015 Read Full Article
Ethanol and Butanol: Symbiotic Partners for a Modern Fuel
by Bill Brandon and Richard Ezike (Biofuels Digest) The debate touting butanol over ethanol as a ‘better’ fuel component has gone on for quite some time in biofuel circles. Those who support butanol point to three key factors: • Butanol has
June 11, 2015 Read Full Article
Fischer, Smith Applauded for Support of E15 Legislation
by Robert Pore (The Independent) Sen. Deb Fischer and Rep. Adrian Smith are being applauded for their support of a a bill to expand the volatility waiver for blends of American Ethanol up to 15 percent (E15), ultimately increasing consumers’
May 19, 2015 Read Full Article
Smith Introduces Legislation to Increase Fuel Options for Consumers
(Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)) Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) introduced legislation today to broaden consumer fuel choice by expanding the existing waiver of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations related to the Reid vapor pressure of motor vehicle fuel to include E15
April 21, 2015 Read Full Article
Ethanol Industry Continues to Evolve as Usage Levels off
by Loretta Sorensen (Midwest Producer) ... Kansas Corn CEO Greg Krissek said there is some slowing of ethanol production on the eastern and western edges of the cornbelt. But ethanol industry leaders are responding to market conditions by implementing new technology
April 07, 2015 Read Full Article
Growth Energy Supports Senators Paul and Grassley Efforts to Give Consumers Choice at the Pump
(Growth Energy) Following the introduction of S. 889, the Fuel Choice and Deregulation Act, legislation by Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA), which contains a provision to extend the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) volatility waiver to E15, Tom
March 30, 2015 Read Full Article
USDA Increases Ethanol Support
by Daniel Looker (Agriculture.com) Speaking to the ethanol lobbying group, Growth Energy, Agriculture Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack Thursday announced more USDA support for bioenergy research and farmer production of biomass but also praised efforts by the biofuel industry itself
March 01, 2015 Read Full Article
Renewable Fuels Association Chief Lays out Plans for Ethanol's Future
(Farm Futures) RFA President Bob Dinneen lists supporting better rail service and creating a level playing field for cellulosic biofuels in 10-point agenda to expand renewables industry Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Bob Dinneen discussed a 10-point plan for the
February 20, 2015 Read Full Article
E15 Ethanol Blend Arrives in Sioux City
by Dave Dreeszen (Sioux City Journal) Motorists in Sioux City now have another choice of ethanol-blended gasoline. The Murphy USA station next to the Walmart Supercenter at 3400 Singing Hills Blvd. recently became the first metro area retailer to sell
December 22, 2014 Read Full Article
RFS Update from EPA at ACE Meeting
by Cindy Zimmerman (DomesticFuel.com) Environmental Protection Agency official Paul Machiele visited the American Coalition for Ethanol conference this week in Minneapolis to discuss various issues, including plans for the 2014 volume obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Machiele, who is director for
August 11, 2014 Read Full Article
Summer Means No E15
by Cindy Zimmerman (Domestic Fuel) ...“The Environmental Protection Agency’s outdated interpretation of Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) regulations is preventing the sale of E15 in most of the country during the busy summer driving season, adding billions to travelers’ fuel costs,”
June 09, 2014 Read Full Article
Growth Energy Features Two Retailers Expanding E15 Offerings
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) It was five years ago that Growth Energy petitioned for the E15 waiver, attendees at the organization's fourth annual leadership conference were reminded in Phoenix, Feb. 27. "And finally, the blend wall has
March 04, 2014 Read Full Article
Summer Volatility Restrictions on E15 End, Fuel Now Available
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) E15 is again available after summer volatility restrictions ended Sept. 15. ... E15 is approved for use with vehicles model year 2001 and newer. However, because the U.S. EPA has awarded E10 a waiver to
September 18, 2013 Read Full Article
EPA Comment Period Closed on Corn Fiber as Ag Residue, Biobutanol
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) In all, the U.S. EPA received 117 comments on a proposed rule on renewable fuel standard (RFS) pathways, including corn kernel fiber-to-cellulosic ethanol and issues relating to biobutanol. The comment period ended July 15. The Renewable Fuels Association
July 22, 2013 Read Full Article
Ethanol Groups Comment on RFS Path Forward
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) Both the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and Growth Energy submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) this week on pathways forward for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The comments highlight the importance of next generation
July 16, 2013 Read Full Article
Choice at the Pump E15 Is Currently Cleared for Sale in a Handful of States, with Work Ongoing to Bring It to the Rest of the U.S.
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Scott Zaremba, owner of Zarco 66 convenience stores, didn’t just open the first E15 retail pump in the nation. Not long after offering 15 percent ethanol at the first station in Lawrence, Kan., he expanded
January 17, 2013 Read Full Article
Ethanol Myth Busting at Automotive Event
by Cindy Zimmerman (DomesticFuel.com) A panel consisting of an automotive technician, an automotive engineer and an ethanol industry representative had the opportunity to bust some myths about ethanol at the National Automotive Service Task Force meeting in New Orleans on
October 16, 2012 Read Full Article
Advanced Biofuels USA Updates Next Generation Engines White Paper
by Joanne Ivancic (Advanced Biofuels USA) With Ford's Ecoboost engines in about 40% of F-150 fleet and three shifts working in Cleveland, Ohio to keep up with demand, along with the increasing popularity of GM's Ecotec engines, it was time
August 02, 2012 Read Full Article
Iowa Fuel Retailers Hit Roadblock to E15 Sales
by Cindy Zimmerman (DomesticFuel.com) The independent Linn Co-op Oil Company in Marion, Iowa is all set to be the first in the nation to sell 15% ethanol blended gasoline to customers, except for one little detail. They can’t get the fuel to
July 03, 2012 Read Full Article
ASTM Lowers E85's Minimum Ethanol Volume to 51 Percent
by Kris Bevill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Scientific standards development body ASTM International (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials) recently made significant changes to its E85 specification, lowering the approved minimum ethanol volume of the fuel to
May 30, 2012 Read Full Article
An Opportunity to Show Ethanol’s Edge
by Brian Jennings (American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ...First, with E15 market ready in many states, the U.S. EPA ought to ensure summer Reid vapor pressure (RVP) limitations do not stand in the way of consumers having access
March 14, 2012 Read Full Article
Butanol Producers Target Biofuels Market
by Philip Brasher (Argus Leader) ... A top official with the Environmental Protection Agency, which regulates motor fuels, told lawmakers recently butanol is one of the nation’s “most promising biofuels.” However, the product faces potential government barriers that provide an advantage
November 15, 2011 Read Full Article
E15: Cracking the RVP Nut
by Jeremy P. Greenhouse (Ethanol Producer Magazine/Greenhouse & Gram) New blend won’t qualify for One Pound Waiver, presenting huge hurdle When the U.S. EPA granted Clean Air Act fuel waivers allowing gasoline containing 10 to 15 percent by volume of ethanol
November 02, 2011 Read Full Article
A Call for Statutory Clarity
by Bryan Sims (Biorefining Magazine) ...Today, in an industry that’s working to produce high-performance, fungible, drop-in molecules, some on the cusp of commercialization, many involved in the biorefining sector contend that the current regulatory regime needs to be altered
October 03, 2011 Read Full Article
The Work at Hand for E15 Market Expansion
by Bob Dinneen (Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ...First, working with Growth Energy, the RFA has submitted health effects testing and worked to fulfill the fuel registration process that must be conducted for any new fuel. That process is now