Biodiesel infrastructure gets big boost in latest HBIIP grant-funding round

Photo: Jenna Higgins Rose, Iowa Biodiesel Board

The USDA announced Aug. 19 that it is investing $26 million in biofuels infrastructure under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program to help expand the availability of higher blends of biofuels, such as B50 blends of biodiesel, by 822 million gallons in 23 states.

Among the grants announced Aug. 19, which is the third round of funding under HBIIP, is funding for 12 biodiesel projects nationwide that will support more than 770 million gallons of biodiesel annually.

“Updating America's infrastructure to expand consumer access to low-carbon biodiesel and Bioheat® fuel is a low-cost, high-return investment in meeting the nation’s goals for near-term carbon reductions,” said Kurt Kovarik, vice president of federal affairs for the National Biodiesel Board. “The return on investment is already evident.”

Justin Maxson, USDA’s deputy undersecretary for rural development, said, “Investments like these increase opportunities for American consumers to make climate-smart decisions and move the country closer to President Biden’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. By expanding the availability of higher-blend biofuels, we’re giving consumers more environmentally friendly fuel choices when they fill up at the pump and stimulating an important market for U.S. farmers and ranchers.”

To date, USDA has invested $66.4 million for projects that are expected to increase biofuels sales by 1.2 billion gallons annually.

Click here for a complete list of the latest projects receiving HBIIP grants.