Iowa approves 108 biofuel-infrastructure grants to expand access to ethanol, biodiesel

Photo: Jenna Rose, Iowa Biodiesel Board

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced Dec. 18 that the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program board approved 108 projects during its quarterly meeting Dec. 17 to support new and expanded biofuel infrastructure projects across the state.

The approved projects are in 46 counties and represent nearly $4.59 million in total requests, including more than $3.9 million for 93 ethanol-related projects and $600,000 for 15 biodiesel-related projects.

These cost-share investments help drivers save money by expanding access to lower-cost, cleaner-burning homegrown biofuels like E15 and biodiesel. 

“These investments are about making it easier and more affordable for Iowans to choose homegrown fuels at the pump,” Naig said. “By helping fuel retailers upgrade and modernize their infrastructure, we are expanding access to E15 and biodiesel, supporting local jobs and benefiting Iowa communities. These projects also help ensure fuel stations are prepared to meet Iowa’s E15 Access Standard and serve their customers well into the future.”

Since the cost-share grant program began in 2006, the department has invested nearly $70 million toward expanding renewable fuels infrastructure in Iowa.

This investment has been matched by approximately $280 million from Iowa convenience stores and fuel retailers.

“Following RFIP’s latest round of grant awards in September, it is exciting to see even more retailers take advantage of this opportunity to provide higher ethanol and biodiesel blends to customers,” said Lisa Coffelt, marketing director for the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association and RFIP board member.

To qualify for the program, biodiesel retailers must use the infrastructure to offer biodiesel-blended fuel classified as B11 (11 percent biodiesel) or higher.

During colder months, retailers can offer B5.

Ethanol retailers can qualify for E15 and higher blends. 

With additional cost-share funding available, the department said it continues to welcome grant applications to assist more fuel stations with infrastructure improvements and upgrades.

Applications are available here.

RFIB consists of voting members appointed by the Iowa governor.