Iowa makes record investments to biodiesel availability statewide
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced that the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) approved 126 projects totaling $6.35 million across 61 counties. The grants will help gas stations install and expand infrastructure for E15, E85, and biodiesel, promoting access to cleaner, affordable biofuels. The approvals include 88 ethanol infrastructure grants worth $4.5 million and 38 biodiesel grants worth $1.8 million, both setting quarterly records. This initiative supports rural jobs, expands markets for farmers, and strengthens energy security.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced yesterday that the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) Board has approved 126 project applications from gas stations across Iowa for new and expanded infrastructure for E15, E85, and biodiesel. The approved projects, totaling nearly $6.35 million, span 61 counties and aim to provide drivers with greater access to affordable and cleaner homegrown biofuels. These awards were finalized during board meetings in August and September.
Eighty-eight cost-share grants, amounting to nearly $4.5 million, will fund the installation of new ethanol fueling infrastructure at gas stations, marking a record for a single quarter. Additionally, the board has approved 38 biodiesel retail cost-share grants, totaling over $1.8 million, also setting a quarterly record.
“Iowa drivers will have more opportunities to save money with each new or upgraded pump dispensing E15 and other higher biofuel blends at gas stations,” said Secretary Naig. “It’s encouraging to witness the growth in our state’s renewable fuels sector, highlighted by record ethanol production and consumption, along with significant cost-share investments in biofuel infrastructure.” He added, “Continuing this momentum not only helps drivers save money but also supports rural jobs, expands markets for farmers, promotes cleaner fuel, and enhances our energy security.”
Iowa’s E15 Access Standard, enacted in 2022, mandates that most retailers offer E15 for sale by January 1, 2026. With both state and federal cost-share assistance still available, now is an opportune moment for additional gas stations to upgrade their facilities. The RFIP incentivizes fuel retailers to provide consumers with higher blends of affordable, homegrown fuels by supporting the installation, replacement, and conversion of ethanol and biodiesel dispensing and storage infrastructure. Grants for upgrading biodiesel terminal and storage facilities are also accessible. While the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship oversees the program, a board appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Iowa Senate makes grant allocation decisions quarterly.
The Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Board will review additional RFIP grant applications in the upcoming months. The RFIP grant application is available on the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s website.
Source Link : https://bioenergytimes.com/iowa-makes-record-investments-to-biodiesel-availability-statewide/
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