Expanding ethanol access with $99.6m in grants

Federal funding drives Midwest biofuel improvements
 

In a move to bolster renewable energy sources within the U.S., Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has unveiled a federal investment of $99.6 million under the Inflation Reduction Act. This funding will support 160 clean energy projects, including substantial improvements to biofuel facilities in Iowa and other Midwestern states.

Companies like Kwik Trip and Casey’s are set to enhance their infrastructure with these grants. Kwik Trip is gearing up to deploy 612 E15 dispensers and 151 B20 dispensers across its network, while Casey’s plans to expand its capacity for E15 and E85 fuels to 194 stations. This includes significant enhancements in cities like Cedar Rapids and Iowa City.

This funding initiative comes at a crucial time, as the demand for environmentally friendly fuel alternatives increases.

The EPA has facilitated the adoption of higher ethanol blends by lifting restrictions on summer sales of E15 and proposing year-round sales in several states.

Iowa's legislation, advocating for E15 availability in every gas station by 2026, underscores the region's commitment to renewable fuels. This legislative push, coupled with federal financial support, aims to transform the U.S. energy landscape, providing both economic and environmental benefits to the Midwest.

By increasing the number of stations equipped to offer higher ethanol blends, these grants play a pivotal role in reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels, thereby supporting the agricultural sector and promoting cleaner energy consumption nationwide.