http://www.ethanolrfa.org/ en Copyright 2013 2013-06-19T14:16:15+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-calls-ama-lobby-day-a-rally-without-a-cause/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-calls-ama-lobby-day-a-rally-without-a-cause/ (June 19, 2013) WASHINGTON — As the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) kicks off its “E15 Fuel for Thought Lobby Day” sponsored in part by the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers Associations (AFPM), Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, couldn’t help but chuckle. “This is a rally without a cause. E15 is not mandated for any vehicle and EPA has specifically prohibited its use in motorcycles and other small engines. E15 is a choice some consumers with 2001 and newer automobiles may and should be allowed to make to reduce gasoline costs or promote a cleaner environment. EPA has assured that E10 will still be available at all gas stations offering E15. E10 is fully approved by all motorcycle manufacturers today. Indeed, ethanol provides the high octane many motorcycles require. Where is the problem? Why do bikers want to eliminate consumer choice for automobile drivers fed up with skyrocketing gasoline prices?” Dinneen continued, “I guess we should be flattered that AMA would dedicate Members of Congress’ and riders’ precious time to a fuel option they cannot use and is only available in a handful of gas stations nationwide. Hard to believe that E15 is a bigger concern than road safety and driver awareness of motorcycles. After all, the ethanol industry and the Environmental Protection Agency have worked diligently to address concerns previously raised by the AMA. E15 is clearly labeled on fuel pumps, which is more than can be said for motorcycle warranty-busting alternatives like diesel, kerosene, 85 octane gasoline or even E85. In addition, a dedicated hose is required for E15, meaning that each station has at least one hose offering E10/E0 for motorcycles and small engines. “The motorcycle owners I know are smart people with lots of common sense and savvy. Does AMA really think their members are incapable of choosing the proper fuel, E10, for their machine and must be saved from themselves?”, concluded Dinneen. Click here for more information on Motorcycles and Ethanol. 2013-06-19T14:16:15+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-releases-key-information-on-ethanol-use-in-motorcycles/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-releases-key-information-on-ethanol-use-in-motorcycles/ (June 18, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) released a fact sheet specifically for motorcycle owners answering common questions about E15 (85 percent gasoline/15 percent ethanol) and motorcycle engines. The document entitled “E15 and the Motorcycle Industry” makes it clear that E15 is illegal to put into a motorcycle engine, but E10 is approved for use. The fact sheet addresses questions such as: What is the concern with E15 and the motorcycle industry? What is being done to assist the motorcycle industry with these concerns? How will consumers identify the appropriate fuel for their vehicle/engine? “A motorcycle is more than just a vehicle to get from point A to point B, it is a unique experience and a treasured pastime for motorcycle owners,” said Bob Dinneen, RFA’s President and CEO. “We understand the important role motorcycles play in many peoples’ lives and are working on multiple fronts to make sure there is accurate labeling at gas stations and up to date information on E10 and E15 so there is no confusion whatsoever on what type of ethanol blend can be used in motorcycles.”    Additionally, RFA has put out a similar guide for ethanol use in classic cars, “Gasoline Ethanol Blends and the Classic Auto.” E15 was approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for vehicles 2001 and newer only. The document specifically addresses the concerns of classic car owners and the proper use of E10. 2013-06-18T13:32:26+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-responds-to-apis-request-for-rfs-waiver/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-responds-to-apis-request-for-rfs-waiver/ (June 14, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association’s President and CEO Bob Dinneen responds to the American Petroleum Institute’s (API) attempt to convince the Administration to waive the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and end E15. “This is another example of oil companies unnecessarily scaring people, and it’s just flat out wrong. The Renewable Fuel Standard has created jobs, helped the economy and saved consumers money at the pump. It’s ironic that the industry that brought us MTBE, benzene, tar sands, fracking chemicals, Deepwater Horizon, Exxon Valdez, and other environmental disasters is suddenly concerned about ‘consumer safety’. “API’s conclusions are inaccurate because their assumptions are flawed. How many times is API going to trot out the same tired study? They have pointed to their self-sponsored NERA study over and over again. But as we have noted in the past, that study ignores the flexibility of the RFS to make it easier for refiners to meet their RFS obligation. API is simply misleading people in suggesting the RFS will increase gasoline costs. The opposite is true. Ethanol is less expensive than gasoline today. It lowers prices at the pump. That’s the fact. “API is being irresponsible in suggesting ethanol harms vehicles. API points to the Coordinating Research Council (CRC) study on E15 that has been widely criticized by the Department of Energy and many others. Ten percent ethanol is safe and approved for all vehicles on the road today. E15 is safe for all vehicles for which EPA has approved its use, 2001 and newer.” Let’s review the facts: *The API-funded CRC study has been debunked and criticized by the Department of Energy and others. According to the CRC study, gasoline without ethanol should also be considered by API to be “unsafe,” as there were vehicles that failed the tests when operating on gasoline without ethanol. *The Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have determined that E15 is safe and effective for approximately 80 percent of the vehicles on the road today. Those approved vehicles account for about 87 percent of the miles traveled in the U.S., and EPA’s pump labeling requirements clearly inform consumers that E15 is not allowed in older vehicles, motorcycles, and off-road engines like lawnmowers, weed-eaters, and boats. *The so-called blend wall is not some impenetrable market barricade—it is an artifact of oil companies’ refusal to embrace renewable fuels. All of this fuss is over 400-500 million gallons of additional ethanol blending required by the RFS in 2013—that’s 0.3 percent of the gasoline market. The E85 and blender pump infrastructure already exists to distribute the small amount of additional ethanol needed in 2013, and there are more than enough flex-fuel vehicles to consume it. E85 sales are skyrocketing in the Midwest today, with reports of E85 priced at $1 or more per gallon below regular E10. Read Kristy Moore’s blog post about the CRC “study”. 2013-06-14T17:05:02+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminar-planned-for-salem-ore/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminar-planned-for-salem-ore/ (June 13, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and Portland & Western Railroad (PNWR) will co-host a free Ethanol Safety Seminar June 18 & 19 at Chemeketa Community College in Salem, Ore. Sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration is limited to the first 100 people per session. Lunch will be provided. Certificates of completion will be awarded to attendees at the completion of the course. This course was developed to give first responders, hazmat teams, and safety personnel an in-depth look at proper training techniques needed when responding to an ethanol-related emergency. A majority of this training is based on the “Complete Training Guide to Ethanol Emergency Response,” a training package created by the Ethanol Emergency Response Coalition (EERC) that has been distributed throughout the United States and to several countries worldwide. “It is crucial that those responsible for the protection of their community are well informed on ethanol fuel safety and prepared to respond to an emergency,” said Kristy Moore, RFA’s vice president of technical services. “We are more than happy to provide a refresher course to first responders and safety teams with this extremely valuable information.” The Ethanol Safety Seminar focuses on numerous important areas of ethanol safety including an introduction to ethanol and ethanol-blended fuels, chemical and physical characteristics of ethanol and hydrocarbon fuels, transportation and transfer of ethanol-blended fuels, storage and dispensing locations, firefighting foam principles and ethanol-blended fuel, health and safety considerations for ethanol-blended fuel emergencies and tank farm and bulk storage fire incidents. To register for this seminar, go to www.rfa.traincaster.com. The RFA will be co-hosting Ethanol Safety Seminars across the country throughout 2013. Locations of an upcoming state-wide tour of California include Sacramento July 8 & 9, Oakland July 10 & 11, Modesto July 12 & 13, Bakersfield July 15 & 16, Los Angeles July 17-20, and San Diego July 22 & 23. For more information on ethanol emergency response, visit the EERC website at www.EthanolResponse.com.   About the Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association is the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Its mission is to advance the development, production, and use of ethanol fuel by strengthening America’s ethanol industry and raising awareness about the benefits of renewable fuels. RFA’s members are working to help America become cleaner, safer, more energy independent and economically secure. For more information, visit www.EthanolRFA.org. About Portland & Western Railroad The Portland & Western Railroad (PNWR) is a 520-mile short line freight railroad that interchanges with the Albany & Eastern Railroad, BNSF Railway, Central Oregon & Pacific Railroad, Coos Bay Rail Link, Hampton Railway, Port of Tillamook Bay Railroad, and Union Pacific Railroad. Commodities transported include aggregates, brick and cement, chemicals, construction and demolition debris, food and feed products, forest products, metallic ores and minerals, and steel and scrap. The PNWR was acquired by Genesee & Wyoming in 1995. Visit www.gwrr.com.  2013-06-13T13:39:33+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/new-analysis-no-direct-correlation-between-the-rfs-and-rising-food-prices/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/new-analysis-no-direct-correlation-between-the-rfs-and-rising-food-prices/ (June 12, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today, ABF Economics released a detailed analysis showing no direct correlation between the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and the overall increase in food prices. The study specifically examined “the relationship between the RFS and recent changes in consumer food prices. Specifically this includes an examination of the relationship between corn prices and consumer food prices, the factors that affect corn prices, the role of the major industry participants in determining consumer food costs, and the relative importance of components such as agricultural commodities and energy on consumer food prices.” Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, weighed in, “Today’s ABF Economics analysis provides definitive evidence that ethanol and the RFS are not driving food prices. That canard has been nothing but a distraction propagated by those wanting to continue profiting from government subsidized grain and those seeking to keep us ever dependent on petroleum. This report should end the food vs. fuel debate for good.” The RFS is a highly effective national energy policy that has revitalized rural communities, created jobs, lowered greenhouse gas emissions, and reduced our carbon footprint. John Urbanchuk, author of the new ABF Economics analysis, found that: Ethanol production and the demand for corn to produce ethanol have increased as a result of the RFS mandates. Corn prices also have increased over this period of time but increased demand to produce renewable fuels consistent with the RFS is only one factor behind the increase in corn prices. These factors included a sharp increase in petroleum prices, rapidly expanding global demand for food and agricultural commodities, commodity market speculation, and an expansive U.S. monetary policy. A careful examination of food price inflation measured by the Consumer Price Index indicates that retail level food prices have increased at a slower rate since the RFS took effect than during the comparable five years before the RFS. The food processing industry accounts for a larger share of consumer food costs than does production agriculture. Moreover, energy prices play a more significant role in costs for food processors than do the prices for any individual agricultural commodity. The RFS has contributed to the production of important co-products of the dry mill corn ethanol industry. Specifically, Distillers dried grains have positively contributed to reducing net feed costs for livestock, dairy, and poultry producers. Higher ethanol output resulting from the RFS has led to increased production of DDGS. Because DDGS has a positive substitution rate for corn and soybean meal, these higher production levels have increased the total availability of feed for livestock and poultry producers by 21 percent compared to feed use of corn alone. The ethanol industry is a major source of captured carbon dioxide, which is used in food processing, refrigeration and packaging to enhance the quality of processed foods and improve profit margins for processors. The RFS has not had an adverse impact on consumers’ ability to afford a safe and healthy food supply. Although food prices have increased modestly faster than overall inflation in the past several years consumers are not spending a greater share of income on food than was the case before the RFS was implemented. The severe recession of 2008-2009 and sluggish recovery in real incomes has played a more significant role than commodity price increases in the decline in red meat and poultry consumption that has taken place since before the RFS was implemented. The ABF Economics analysis comes on the heels of a recent World Bank study that determined oil prices were the leading cause of increased food prices. The World Bank study states, “most of the price increases are accounted for by crude oil prices (more than 50 percent), followed by stock-to-use ratios and exchange rate movements, which are estimated at about 15 percent each. Crude oil prices mattered most during the recent boom period because they experienced the largest increase.” It goes on to examine the highly scrutinized 2008 World Bank report by Don Mitchell, concluding that Mitchell overestimated the effect of biofuels on food prices. Dinneen commented, “While the ABF Economics report shows that ethanol and the RFS did not drive food prices, the recent World Bank report makes it plain what did ... OIL! High and highly volatile energy prices have caused pain at the pump and groans at the grocery store.  It makes sense, as energy impacts every facet of the food production, transportation, storage and marketing complex. Ethanol and the RFS provide the only rational response to protect our food and fuel dollar.”  The ABF Economics study, commissioned by the Renewable Fuels Association, can be found here. 2013-06-12T17:03:31+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/food-lobby-letter-to-pm-cameron-on-biofuels-misleading-grfa/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/food-lobby-letter-to-pm-cameron-on-biofuels-misleading-grfa/ (June 11, 2013) TORONTO, Canada — The Global Renewable Fuels Alliance (GRFA) reacted today to a biased and misleading letter criticizing biofuels sent to British Prime Minister David Cameron by a group led by two of the world’s largest multinational food companies. “Nestlé Chairman Peter Brabeck-Letmathe, who co-authored this misguided attack on biofuels, has no credibility on this issue,” said Bliss Baker, spokesperson for the Global Renewable Fuels Alliance. “I find it somewhat convenient that a person who sits on the Board of ExxonMobil would criticize biofuels,” added Mr. Baker.   The letter issued to Prime Minister David Cameron ahead of his hosting of the upcoming G8 meetings has failed to highlight the tremendous impact that high oil prices have had on global food prices. The letter has ignored the recent World Bank publication, Long-Term Drivers of Food Prices, which examined the relative contribution of various sector and macroeconomic drivers on food price increases from 1997–2004 to 2005–12. The World Bank report “concludes that most of the price increases are accounted for by crude oil prices (more than 50 percent)...oil prices mattered most during the recent boom period because they experienced the largest increase.” The report goes on to say “most of the contribution to food price changes from 1997-2004 to 2005-12 comes from the price of crude oil, which for maize and wheat is 52 percent and 64 percent, respectively.” “There is little doubt that during the recent period of volatile food price spikes and record oil industry profits, oil prices were the most important driver of food prices,” said Baker.   Over a year ago, United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization Deputy Director David Hallam concluded that oil prices were having an effect on food prices when he said that “unexpected oil price spikes could further exacerbate an already precarious situation in food markets.” Moreover, according to the International Energy Agency’s Technology Roadmap: Biofuels for Transport published in 2012, biofuels could provide 27 percent of global transport fuel by 2050, avoid 2.1 gigatonnes of CO2 emissions by displacing gasoline and achieve these targets without compromising global food security. “The price of crude oil is the largest component in the cost of our food” said Mr. Baker. “The World Bank and IEA have drawn similar conclusions, and I trust that G8 leaders will base their future decisions on research that is credible and without bias.”   The Global Renewable Fuels Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting biofuel friendly policies internationally. Alliance members represent over 65% of the global biofuels production from 44 countries. Through the development of new technologies and best practices, the Alliance members are committed to producing renewable fuels with the smallest possible footprint. For more information, please contact: Bliss Baker Global Renewable Fuels Alliance Work: (Country code "1") 416-847-6497 Mobile: 647-309-0058 Email: info@globalrfa.org http://www.globalrfa.org 2013-06-11T13:05:43+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/senate-farm-bill-fuels-economic-growth-and-energy-independence/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/senate-farm-bill-fuels-economic-growth-and-energy-independence/ (June 11, 2013) WASHINGTON — Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), commented on the 2013 Farm Bill as it moves from Senate approval to consideration by the House of Representatives. “It has been a long process, but a very worthwhile one. After much thoughtful dialogue, the Senate passed a Farm Bill that is forward-looking and positive for America’s renewable fuels industry. We believe the House, like the Senate, will also recognize the job-creating, value-added economic engine that the ethanol industry has become. In 2012, the ethanol producers across this country supported over 300,000 jobs. “It is important to note the inclusion of programs like the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), the Biomass Crop Assistance Program, and the Biorefinery Assistance Program. These programs signal Congress’ desire to see more world-class innovation and deployment of ethanol and other renewable fuels into the marketplace. With the support of these programs, the infrastructure can be put in place to provide American drivers with cost saving, environmentally friendly fuel choice at the pump while reducing America’s dependence on dangerous foreign oil.” Dinneen concluded, “As the House begins its deliberations, we encourage them to keep the larger goals of energy independence and rural economic revitalization in mind. There is no denying ethanol and its brethren renewable fuels are the key to fast and certain strides.” 2013-06-11T12:18:21+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-releases-vital-information-on-rail-transportation-safety/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-releases-vital-information-on-rail-transportation-safety/ (June 10, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) released the “Guidelines for Hinged and Bolted Manway Assembly” in conjunction with the start of the 2013 Fuel Ethanol Workshop. The publication is a powerful resource for ethanol shippers to ensure the safe transport of ethanol through the rail system. The guidelines explain in detail the correct assembly of a manway, the proper steps for inspection, the most efficient way to spot imperfections, and the steps needed to create and maintain a consistent process to secure manways in order to end the occurrence of non-accident releases. This illustration-filled guideline was produced in response to an increased need for an engineering standard addressing the inspection, maintenance, and securement of hinged and bolted manways. The RFA guidelines are an indispensable resource for both manway manufacturers and rail shippers. Nearly 70 percent of ethanol is transported to the marketplace using the U.S. railroad system, with roughly 330,000 shipments of ethanol taking place annually. RFA representatives will be attending the 2013 Fuel Ethanol Workshop this week and will have a manway on hand to show the correct way to seal and tighten the bolts. We encourage manufacturers and shippers to stop by the exhibit and pick up a copy of the “Guidelines for Hinged and Bolted Manway Assembly.” “Rail safety is vitally important to the RFA and something as simple as under tightening or over tightening a bolt on the manway can lead to an accidental release of ethanol. We lead an extensive research program looking at the production process for manways and ways to improve their proper securement. Our ultimate goal is zero non-accident releases and the guidelines are a significant first step toward reaching that goal,” said Kristy Moore, RFA’s vice president of technical services. The publication was made possible with a grant from the Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration. Additionally, RFA partnered with Watco Compliance Services, VSP Technologies, and Salco Products, Inc. to collect the necessary information on manways and their proper installment. See the full guidelines. 2013-06-10T14:59:41+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/topic-and-denial-of-ethanol-industry-involvement-make-serious-hearing-farce/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/topic-and-denial-of-ethanol-industry-involvement-make-serious-hearing-farce/ (June 5, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Energy Policy, Health Care and Entitlements is holding a hearing entitled “Up Against the Blend Wall: Examining EPA’s Role in the Renewable Fuel Standard.” From the premise to the witness list, the hearing is a farce.  If invited to speak, representatives of the Ethanol industry would have talked about the success of the RFS and why the oil industry continues to erect barriers to its full implementation.   Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, may not have had a microphone at today’s hearing, but that didn’t stop him from commenting: “The single most effective energy policy this country has ever known, the Renewable Fuel Standard, is under review by the House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Energy Policy, Health Care and Entitlements.  A policy this important deserves more than a biased, attack-based, monopoly-protecting Big Oil spotlight.  “The focus of the hearing is the Big Oil created blend wall. Big Oil is using fear to protect their total and complete dominance of the fuel market. This is nothing more than a smokescreen meant to distract Americans from the real issues — our addiction to petroleum, our dependence upon foreign oil, the environmental damage from tar sands and fracking, and, let’s not forget, high gas prices. Big oil created the blend wall barrier by refusing to allow access to the market for E85 and resisting with fear and misinformation the use of E15 for those consumers that want to use it. They have had years to prepare and comply with the RFS. Instead, they’ve hired PR firms and lawyers to maintain their monopoly over the fuel market. They created the blend wall and are now complaining about its existence. That is the very essence of hypocrisy.” At the hearing today, the president of the National Turkey Federation — a fierce opponent of the RFS — made claims that turkey production has decreased and focused the blame squarely on ethanol production. Dinneen cried foul. “According to numbers from the USDA, turkey production has increased. Record turkey production was achieved in 2012 and a new record is expected in 2014. Per capita consumption is expected to hit a record in 2014. The truth is that feed use of corn and corn co-products from ethanol in 2014 will be at its second-highest since 2000. When co-products like distillers grains are appropriately considered, feed use remains the top use of corn by far. Feed accounted for 49 percent of total use in 2012/13, compared to 27 percent for ethanol (net co-products).” Dinneen summarized by saying, “It is flat out wrong that not a single representative from the ethanol industry was invited to speak or to present facts on the proven success of the RFS in reducing our dependence on foreign oil, lowering gas prices, improving the environment, or creating jobs and economic opportunities for rural America. This is a bit like asking a roomful of matadors if the bull should live. Long live the RFS!” 2013-06-05T17:04:51+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminars-arriving-at-two-nebraska-towns/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminars-arriving-at-two-nebraska-towns/ (June 5, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and Nebraska Central Railroad Company (NCRC) will co-host two Ethanol Safety Seminars in Nebraska. The first seminar will be held on Wednesday, June 12 at the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center in Grand Island. The second seminar will be held in Columbus on Thursday, June 13 at the Columbus Fire Department. Both seminars are free and feature a morning session from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and an evening session from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Lunch and dinner will be provided. The seminars are designed for individuals who respond to ethanol-related emergencies as well as those who work at fixed-facilities and transport fuel. The goal of these seminars is for attendees to gain full ethanol emergency response training experience that they can put to use immediately in the field as well as pass along to other first response teams.  A majority of this training is based on the Complete Training Guide to Ethanol Emergency Response, a training package created by the Ethanol Emergency Response Coalition (EERC) that has been distributed throughout the United States and to several countries worldwide. “An ethanol emergency event that occurs on or around the railroad will present unique safety challenges for all responding emergency personnel,” said Mitch Harris, Director of Safety for Rio Grande Pacific Corporation, NCRC’s parent company. “First responders will be prepared for any of those potential safety challenges by attending the Ethanol Safety Seminar for Emergency Responders being sponsored by the Nebraska Central Railroad Company and the Renewable Fuels Association. Join us on June 12 in Grand Island and June 13 in Columbus.” Attendees will receive in-depth information on proper training techniques that first responders and hazmat personnel need to effectively respond to an ethanol-related emergency.  While primarily targeting first responders, hazmat teams, safety managers, and local emergency planning committees, it is also open to the general public. “Safety within the ethanol industry is of the utmost importance,” said Kristy Moore, RFA Vice President of Technical Services. “Preparation in education must be the first step for first responders, and we strongly encourage all those with responsibilities inside their communities pertaining to the industry to attend this seminar.” The Ethanol Safety Seminar focuses on numerous important areas of ethanol safety including an introduction to ethanol and ethanol-blended fuels, chemical and physical characteristics of ethanol and hydrocarbon fuels, transportation and transfer of ethanol-blended fuels, storage and dispensing locations, firefighting foam principles and ethanol-blended fuel, health and safety considerations for ethanol-blended fuel emergencies and tank farm and bulk storage fire incidents. Certificates will be awarded at the completion of the course. To register for this seminar, go to www.rfa.traincaster.com. The RFA will be co-hosting Ethanol Safety Seminars throughout 2013. The next seminar will take place in Salem, Ore., on June 18 and 19. Those on the West Coast can also look forward to an upcoming state-wide tour of California that will make stops in Sacramento on July 8 and 9, Oakland on July 10 and 11, Modesto on July 12 and 13, Bakersfield on July 15 and 16, Los Angeles from July 17 to July 20, and San Diego on July 22 and 23. For more information on ethanol emergency response, visit the EERC website at www.EthanolResponse.com.   About the Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association is the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Its mission is to advance the development, production, and use of ethanol fuel by strengthening America’s ethanol industry and raising awareness about the benefits of renewable fuels. RFA’s members are working to help America become cleaner, safer, more energy independent and economically secure. Visit www.EthanolRFA.org. About Nebraska Central Railroad Company The Nebraska Central Railroad Company (NCRC) is a 340-mile network composed of five former UPRR branch lines and one former BNSF branch line. Trackage rights include 70 miles of UPRR main line between North Platte and Omaha. NCRC, through its connection with Union Pacific (at Columbus, Central City and Grand Island) and BNSF (at David City), is an integral part of grain shipments in the region. NCRC plays a key role in the Nebraska economy by providing a variety rail transportation services, serving a diverse group of customers engaged in industries such as steel production, agricultural products, grain marketing and ethanol production. Rio Grande Pacific Corporation maintains a 100 percent equity interest in this property. Visit www.rgpc.com/ncrc. 2013-06-05T13:28:46+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-president-responds-to-new-study-on-long-term-effects-of-global-warming-/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-president-responds-to-new-study-on-long-term-effects-of-global-warming-/ (June 4, 2013) WASHINGTON - RFA’s President and CEO Bob Dinneen responds to a new Rice University and University of California at Davis study examining the impact of global warming and its effect on corn production and the long term water supply. "When weathermen and climatologists are often wrong about next week's forecast, why should anyone believe this study can accurately predict weather conditions 40 years from now? The effects of climate change on future precipitation and crop yields is a highly unsettled and uncertain area of analysis. Some studies have actually shown crop yields in the north-central U.S. will increase due to climate changes in the long term. It appears the authors have chosen to highlight a doomsday scenario, rather than giving equal consideration to a broad array of possible future outcomes. It also appears that the authors have ignored the future commercialization of crop technologies under development today that will better withstand drought and heat stress. Additionally, only 10-12% of the U.S. corn crop is irrigated today, and water use on those irrigated acres has trended downward in recent years. The study also omits any comparison to the water use and water quality impacts of current and future oil production methods—fracking and extracting oil from tar sands use far more water than ethanol. The bottom line is this isn’t a scientific study at all; it is an editorial by a pair of oil industry sympathizers intended to deflect attention from the fact ethanol and the RFS have worked for America." 2013-06-04T14:04:11+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/florida-closes-door-on-biofuels-jobs/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/florida-closes-door-on-biofuels-jobs/ (May 31, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today, the Governor of Florida signed into law HB4001, a bill that repeals the state Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). In a joint statement, Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, and Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy, commented on what this law really means for the state of Florida. “As this country struggles to come back from recent economic hardships, it is sad to watch a state legislate away good paying jobs in the renewable energy sector and the abundant economic opportunities that come along with them. This bill isn’t worth the paper it is printed on given that the federal Renewable Fuel Standard supersedes any state law. This toothless legislation might win favor with Big Oil supporters, but it has closed the door on job creation by the biofuels industry and sent investors packing for more visionary states. This is most definitely a lost opportunity for the people of Florida.”   About the Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association is the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Its mission is to advance the development, production, and use of ethanol fuel by strengthening America’s ethanol industry and raising awareness about the benefits of renewable fuels. RFA’s members are working to help America become cleaner, safer, more energy independent and economically secure. For more information, visit www.EthanolRFA.org. About Growth Energy Growth Energy is a group committed to the promise of agriculture and growing America's economy through cleaner, greener energy. Growth Energy members recognize America needs a new ethanol approach. Through smart policy reform and a proactive grassroots campaign, Growth Energy promotes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding the use of ethanol in gasoline, decreasing our dependence on foreign oil, and creating American jobs at home. More information can be found at GrowthEnergy.org. 2013-05-31T21:59:38+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/attention-memorial-day-drivers-ethanol-lowering-gas-prices/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/attention-memorial-day-drivers-ethanol-lowering-gas-prices/ (May 23, 2013) WASHINGTON — As millions of Americans take to the roads for a long holiday weekend, the Renewable Fuels Association reminds drivers that ethanol is not only a clean, green renewable fuel, it is helping Americans save money at the gas pump. National gas prices are steadily rising. According to GasBuddy.com, the national average is $3.68. Bob Dinneen, the President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, commented, “It is getting painful yet again to stand at the pump and watch the dollars fly by. Thankfully, ethanol exists to help lower prices, stretch the gasoline supply, and provide both engine and environmental benefits. On a larger scale, the ethanol industry is a high octane economic engine that is supporting more than 365,000 jobs across America, revitalizing challenged rural communities, and reducing the American dollars sent overseas to buy petroleum from often hostile dictators in oil-rich countries.” While it is not uncommon to see higher gas prices along the coasts of the United States, it is an oddity that highest prices in the nation lately have been in the state of Minnesota. According to recent local media reports, the statewide average is $4.26 per gallon. According to 2012 updated research conducted by economics professors at the University of Wisconsin and Iowa State University for the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD), domestically-produced ethanol reduced wholesale gasoline prices by an average of $1.09 per gallon in 2011. That is an additional 20-cent savings over the $0.89 these same economists recorded in 2010.  It is expected that drivers in Iowa may also soon be hit with increased costs. Once again, ethanol, this time in the form of E85 (85 percent ethanol, 15 percent gasoline) that is widely available in the Corn Belt, is delivering significant savings to owners of flex-fuel vehicles. Dinneen commented, “I suspect owners of flex-fuel vehicles will enjoy their summer driving vacations a bit more than other drivers. The savings that flex-fuel drivers will enjoy is significant.” According to the website e85prices.com/minnesota.html, the published average statewide E85 price is approximately $3.31 compared to $4.19 for gas. E85 is recorded to be as low as $2.49 per gallon in Eagan, Minn. To find out more about E85, please visit ChooseEthanol.com. To find out if your vehicle is approved to use E85 consult your owner’s manual or for a list of flex-fuel vehicles, please see RFA’s Flex Fuel brochure/listing. To learn about the benefits and value of ethanol in general, please visit www.EthanolRFA.org. 2013-05-23T20:39:51+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/context-is-important-rfa-responds-to-house-committee-with-10-questions/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/context-is-important-rfa-responds-to-house-committee-with-10-questions/ (May 23, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) responded to seven questions proposed by the House Energy and Commerce Committee with 10 questions of its own. The RFA’s questions stress the need to examine the impact of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) in a broader context including the negative impact of Big Oil and the damaging effects of gasoline production on the environment. The House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee is examining the Renewable Fuel Standard in a series of whitepapers. In its third whitepaper, the Committee posed questions entitled, “Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Other Environmental Impacts.” RFA President and CEO Bob Dinneen stated, “When assessing the environmental impacts of renewable fuels, it is absolutely imperative to make appropriate comparisons to the impacts associated with the use of petroleum fuels. In other words, it is inappropriate to examine the environmental effects of the RFS without simultaneously examining the effects of not having the RFS. It is also important to compare new renewable fuels entering the market to the actual sources of marginal petroleum they are delaying and displacing.”  He continues, “In that regard, the questions posed by the Committee appear woefully incomplete. By focusing exclusively on the environmental impacts of ethanol and other biofuels used for the RFS, the Committee is missing the significant environmental and public health consequences of increased petroleum production and use in the absence of ethanol and the RFS.”  The proposed questions from the RFA: What are the environmental effects of oil exploration, including seismic surveys, drilling and well logging, deployment of marine platforms, and infrastructure development? What are the environmental effects of oil extraction, including fracturing, pumping, and additional infrastructure establishment? What are the environmental effects of crude oil distribution, including transportation (ocean tanker, rail and/or truck) and pipeline? What are the environmental effects of gasoline production at the refinery? What are the environmental effects resulting from gasoline distribution, including transportation, pipeline shipment and storage?  What are the environmental and public health effects of gasoline use, including fuel blending, fuel dispensing and driving?  What are the GHG emissions impacts of increased unconventional oil production from Canadian oil sands, tight oil from fracking, thermally enhanced oil recovery, and gasoline production, distribution and use?  How has the composition of gasoline and resulting emissions changed since 2005?  What are the GHG and other environmental impacts of our dependence on imported oil and the national security implications of that dependence?  Do current lifecycle analysis tools and models fully capture the environmental and carbon effects of oil exploration, extraction, processing, transportation and combustion?  Dinneen concludes, “Context is important.  As Congress assesses the merits of ethanol and the RFS, a clear understanding of the fossil fuels being displaced by ethanol and other renewable fuels is imperative. Changes to the RFS would undoubtedly lead to increased use of marginal petroleum, fuels that have their own distinct environmental, public health and carbon effects.” In response to the Committee’s questions, Dinneen stated, “the RFS has succeeded in reducing GHG emissions, decreasing other harmful tailpipe pollutants, and displacing crude oil imports with more sustainable renewable transportation fuels.” The Committee asked about the impact of the RFS on reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to current petroleum fuel levels. Dinneen responded, “The RFS is unquestionably reducing GHG emissions today compared to baseline petroleum. As an initial matter, it is important to understand there is a fundamental difference between the carbon cycle of renewable fuels and the carbon cycle of fossil fuels.” He continues by stating, “The GHG emissions reduction associated with substituting ethanol for gasoline has been equivalent to removing an average of 6.4 million vehicles from America’s roadways annually from 2008 to 2012.” The RFA’s full response to the Committee’s original questions can be found in this RFA whitepaper. Enlarge this chart. Source: [1] NETL (2009), An Evaluation of the Extraction, Transport and Refining of Imported Crude Oils and the Impact of Life Cycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions, March 27, 2009, U.S. Department of Energy, DOE/NETL-2009/1362. [2-3] EPA (2010). RFS2 Final Rule. [4] Wang et al. (2012). “Well-to-wheels energy use and greenhouse gas emissions of ethanol from corn, sugarcane and cellulosic biomass for US use.” Environ. Res. Lett., 7 (2012) 045905 (13pp). 2013-05-23T18:49:48+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-receives-award-for-emergency-readiness-training/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-receives-award-for-emergency-readiness-training/ (May 21, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) accepted the “2012 TRANSCAER® National Achievement Award,” at the Association of American Railroads/Bureau of Explosives HazMat Seminar in Addison, Texas. RFA received the award for its commitment to the goals of TRANSCAER® and for its role in educating communities on how to handle chemical transportation emergencies. TRANSCAER® (Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response) is a voluntary outreach initiative that works to keep communities safe and prepares them for possible hazardous transportation emergencies. RFA’s Kristy Moore was on hand to accept the award saying, “I have worked with TRANSCAER® for many years and am honored to receive this award on behalf of the Renewable Fuels Association. I have been involved in planning safety seminars and know that the value of a coordinated response can be the difference between a fire and full out disaster.” RFA’s President and CEO Bob Dinneen stated, “The ethanol industry takes safety extremely seriously. We do everything we can to make sure local communities have safety and emergency plans in place to handle anything that comes their way. We hope they never have to use the training, but safety comes first and we are proud to be a leader by promoting safety education.”   The RFA partners with railroad companies and local industry associates to hold safety seminars on how to handle ethanol related emergencies. The seminars examine everything from how to handle tank farm and bulk storage fire incidents to the transportation and transfer of ethanol blended fuels. The RFA began safety seminars in 2010 and continues to host sessions throughout the United States. To date, the RFA has hosted 69 safety seminars in 20 different states, including Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas and Tennessee. Ten more seminars are planned this year and the RFA intends to continue this important program next year. The free seminars are open to everyone, including first responders, emergency planners and the general public. More information on ethanol safety can be found at www.ethanolresponse.com. 2013-05-21T16:18:11+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/advanced-ethanol-council-congratulates-secretary-moniz/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/advanced-ethanol-council-congratulates-secretary-moniz/ (May 16, 2013) WASHINGTON — Brooke Coleman, Executive Director of the Advanced Ethanol Council, released the following statement today congratulating Secretary Moniz on his unanimous confirmation by the U.S. Senate. “The advanced ethanol industry congratulates Secretary Moniz on his new appointment. Secretary Moniz has just the right combination of technical expertise and political experience to be very effective as the new Secretary of Energy. He clearly understands what it takes to commercialize new energy technologies, and we look forward to working with the Secretary and his colleagues going forward as the advanced ethanol industry deploys commercially in the United States and abroad.” Advanced Ethanol Council, News, Press Release 2013-05-16T19:01:22+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-welcomes-energy-secretary-moniz/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-welcomes-energy-secretary-moniz/ (May 16, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) welcomes newly confirmed Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz. RFA’s President and CEO, Bob Dinneen, congratulated Secretary Moniz on his appointment, saying: “Ethanol producers across this country congratulate Secretary Moniz on his appointment. President Obama, Secretary of Agriculture Vilsack and others in the Obama Administration have been enthusiastically supportive of ethanol and other biofuels over the years so we look forward to working with the Obama Administration’s newest team member. Given his background and expertise in energy, we look forward to the Secretary’s first visit to an ethanol plant. We are eager for him to see firsthand the positive economic impact the Renewable Fuel Standard has had in creating new jobs and revitalizing rural economies. We are anxious to introduce him to drivers who appreciate having fuel choices at the pump that save money and protect the environment. We believe Secretary Moniz, like the President, will recognize the power of ethanol to help make this nation more energy independent and less beholden to the whims of foreign governments in oil-rich countries. Again, welcome to Washington and to the Heartland of America, Secretary Moniz.” 2013-05-16T17:44:51+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-and-growth-file-a-complaint-with-court-of-justice-to-end-duty/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-and-growth-file-a-complaint-with-court-of-justice-to-end-duty/ (May 16, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and Growth Energy filed a complaint with the General Court in Luxembourg challenging the European Union’s (EU) decision to impose a 9.6 percent antidumping duty on all ethanol imported from the United States. The complaint outlines 10 specific violations of one established trade law committed by the European Commission in its investigation of anti-dumping claims, and the imposition of a country-wide anti-dumping penalty, against all U.S. ethanol. These include errors in the assessment of relevant facts in determining injury and dumping margins as well as violations of the EU’s own rules regarding the implementation of anti-dumping penalties, such as their refusal to calculate individual dumping margins and assign individual dumping duties, their incomplete and inaccurate calculation of an alleged injury margin, and their overstatement of the volume of imports from the U.S. The complaint from RFA and Growth Energy requests the complete and total end of the duty. “We believe the implementation of an EU duty on imported ethanol violates EU law and we are proactively taking our case to the General Court in Luxembourg,” said Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy. RFA and Growth Energy are trying to remedy the situation through other avenues as well. EU’s determination to impose the duty violates various requirements put in place by the World Trade Organization (WTO). Consequently, RFA and Growth Energy are working with appropriate officials in the United States to pursue a challenge before the WTO. Earlier this month, 14 Senators signed a bipartisan letter to Acting Commerce Secretary Rebecca Blank and Acting U.S. Trade Representative Demetrios Marantis demanding that the Administration carefully evaluate the EU’s decision to impose a duty on imported ethanol and consider challenging the WTO requirements. “We believe this duty violates well established international anti-dumping law, and we are going to pursue every challenge available to us.  Whether it is a private challenge in Luxembourg or a challenge at the World Trade Organization, we are going to fight this illegal ruling to the end, and we are going to win,” said Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association.     About the Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association is the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Its mission is to advance the development, production, and use of ethanol fuel by strengthening America’s ethanol industry and raising awareness about the benefits of renewable fuels. RFA’s members are working to help America become cleaner, safer, more energy independent and economically secure. For more information, visit www.EthanolRFA.org. About Growth Energy Growth Energy is a group committed to the promise of agriculture and growing America's economy through cleaner, greener energy. Growth Energy members recognize America needs a new ethanol approach. Through smart policy reform and a proactive grassroots campaign, Growth Energy promotes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding the use of ethanol in gasoline, decreasing our dependence on foreign oil, and creating American jobs at home. More information can be found at GrowthEnergy.org. ### Press contact: Michael Frohlich at (202) 545-4000 or mfrohlich@growthenergy.org. 2013-05-16T15:02:28+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/dawn-moore-joins-rfa-as-communications-director/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/dawn-moore-joins-rfa-as-communications-director/ (May 13, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) today announced that Dawn Schueller Moore has joined the staff as Communications Director. Moore served as Press Secretary to U.S. Senator Herb Kohl of Wisconsin for nearly three years. She has publicized issues and events ranging from agriculture, rural development, Supreme Court Justices Sotomayor and Kagan’s nomination hearings and Senator Kohl’s “No Oil Producing & Exporting Cartels Act” antitrust legislation to help decrease the cost of gasoline. Moore holds a B.A. in Journalism and Political Science from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She also served as an intern to Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle. Moore rounds out RFA’s communications team led by Christina Martin, Executive Vice President. Moore will be the point person for day-to-day press activities including media inquiries, interviews, and press conferences. She will be actively participating in social media. Look for Dawn Moore on Twitter at @RFADawn. Commenting on RFA’s new hire, Bob Dinneen, President and CEO, said, “Dawn is a great addition to our team. With her Midwestern roots and Washington political experience, she has rural America in her blood and politically savvy instincts. Besides her valuable Senate experience, she is high energy and enthusiastic about the value-proposition that U.S. ethanol brings to agriculture, economic development, and our country as a stronger, more energy independent nation.” Moore explained the appeal of RFA and its member companies this way, “What’s not to love about this job? I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact ethanol has had in my home state and I know all too well the fight that ethanol has ahead of it in Congress as oil interests bear down to desperately protect their monopoly. I’m anxious to put my press and social media skills to work telling the amazing story of this industry and the Renewable Fuel Standard.” 2013-05-13T15:45:37+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/aec-asks-white-house-for-faster-resolution-of-advanced-biofuel-pathways/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/aec-asks-white-house-for-faster-resolution-of-advanced-biofuel-pathways/ (May 9, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Advanced Ethanol Council (AEC) sent a letter to the White House today expressing concern about ongoing delays in the approval process for advanced biofuel pathways pursuant to the implementation of the federal Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The letter calls for the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to prioritize and approve a number of these pathways to facilitate the program. “While we understand that the White House and U.S. EPA must be thorough in their analysis when it comes to which advanced biofuels qualify for the RFS, we have gotten to the point where administrative delays are causing project developers to look to other countries to build their facilities,” said AEC Executive Director Brooke Coleman. “The private sector has stepped up to the plate when it comes to advanced biofuels and the RFS, but developers rightly expect resolution on the pathways to start construction on these projects. There is a point where too much delay and uncertainty drives these innovative projects to Brazil and China, and that’s where we are for some of the more critical pathways.” The AEC points out that some pathway deliberations have been ongoing for three years without any clear timeframe for resolution. “It is absolutely critical for the private investment marketplace to have a transparent, expeditious and predictable resolution process for all proposed pathways, or we face the prospect of losing these projects to other countries, ” the letter states. Advanced Ethanol Council, News, Press Release 2013-05-09T15:57:47+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/e15-now-available-in-wisconsin/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/e15-now-available-in-wisconsin/ (May 7, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) cheered RFA member Badger State Ethanol and the Wisconsin Ethanol Coalition for their efforts to bring E15 to Wisconsin. As of today, the SmartStation at 1290 Business Highway 151 in Platteville, Wisconsin began offering E15 from eight pumps. Bob Dinneen, RFA’s President and CEO, marked the occasion saying, “Today is an exciting day for drivers in Wisconsin. They now have a choice at the pump. They have the opportunity to choose a new renewable fuel mix that provides cost savings as well as engine and environmental benefits. A Wisconsin driver can now choose a fuel that supports jobs in their state and helps strengthen this country economically. The additional use of ethanol will in fact increase our energy security and further reduce our dependence upon foreign oil. Three cheers for Badger State and the Wisconsin Ethanol Coalition for their hard work.” SmartStation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Badger State Ethanol. 2013-05-07T21:17:26+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-informational-seminar-to-be-held-in-troy-mich/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-informational-seminar-to-be-held-in-troy-mich/ (May 2, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and CN Railway will co-host a free Ethanol Safety Seminar on Thursday, May 9 at the Troy Fire and Police Training Center in Troy, Mich. To accommodate all schedules, there will be a morning session from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and an evening session from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Registration is limited to the first 60 people per seminar. Lunch and dinner will be provided. While primarily targeting first responders, hazmat teams, safety managers, and local emergency planning committees, it is also open to the general public. The goal of this seminar is for attendees to gain full ethanol emergency response training experience that they can put to use immediately in the field and pass along to other first response teams. A majority of this training is based on the Complete Training Guide to Ethanol Emergency Response, a training package created by the Ethanol Emergency Response Coalition (EERC) that has been distributed throughout the United States and to several countries worldwide. “As a commitment to TRANSCAER® (Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response), CN is happy to partner with the Renewable Fuels Association to conduct this series of Ethanol Safety Seminars for first responders, including firefighters, local emergency planning officials and police agencies,” said Scott McLeod, Sr. Dangerous Goods Officer at CN Railway. “With a focus on ethanol, this seminar demonstrates the importance of preplanning and a continued partnership between responders, the producers and transportation.” “Safety remains a priority in the ethanol industry. Educating and preparing those who may face an ethanol related emergency is important for their own safety and for the communities they protect,” said Kristy Moore, RFA Vice President of Technical Services. “We are thrilled to continue these partnerships with companies like CN Railway so we are able to provide this valuable ethanol response information at no cost.” The Ethanol Safety Seminar focuses on numerous important areas of ethanol safety including an introduction to ethanol and ethanol-blended fuels, chemical and physical characteristics of ethanol and hydrocarbon fuels, transportation and transfer of ethanol-blended fuels, storage and dispensing locations, firefighting foam principles and ethanol-blended fuel, health and safety considerations for ethanol-blended fuel emergencies and tank farm and bulk storage fire incidents. Certificates will be awarded at the completion of the course. To register for this seminar, go to www.rfa.traincaster.com. The RFA will be co-hosting Ethanol Safety Seminars throughout 2013. Scheduled seminar locations include: Grand Island, Neb., on June 12; Columbus, Neb., on June 13; Salem, Ore., on June 18 and 19; and a state-wide tour of California starting July 8. For more information on ethanol emergency response, visit the EERC website at www.EthanolResponse.com.   About the Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association is the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Its mission is to advance the development, production, and use of ethanol fuel by strengthening America’s ethanol industry and raising awareness about the benefits of renewable fuels. RFA’s members are working to help America become cleaner, safer, more energy independent and economically secure. Visit www.EthanolRFA.org. About CN Railway The Canadian National Railway Company, along with its operating railway subsidiaries, spans Canada and mid-America, from the Atlantic and Pacific oceans to the Gulf of Mexico, serving the ports of Vancouver, Prince Rupert, B.C., Montreal, Halifax, New Orleans, and Mobile, Ala., and the key metropolitan areas of Toronto, Buffalo, Chicago, Detroit, Duluth, Minn., Superior, Wis., Green Bay, Wis., Minneapolis/St. Paul, Memphis, and Jackson, Miss., with connections to all points in North America. Visit www.CN.ca. 2013-05-02T13:40:45+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-to-house-committee-rfs-is-single-most-important-economic-market-for-ag/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-to-house-committee-rfs-is-single-most-important-economic-market-for-ag/ (April 30, 2013) WASHINGTON — In seventeen pages of comments, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) answered questions put forth in the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Energy and Commerce Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) Assessment on Agricultural Sector Impacts.  Bob Dinneen, RFA’s President and CEO, reminded the committee, “…it is important to remember that a central objective in developing a vibrant and robust ethanol industry was to increase demand for agricultural products and enhance farm income. Girded by the RFS, ethanol has become the single most important value-added market for American grain farmers, stimulating investment in agricultural technology and enhancing economic opportunities for rural communities across the country. The emergence of the ethanol industry over the past decade has served as an incredibly important economic catalyst, transforming the grain sector from a stagnating, surplus-driven marketplace to one that is vibrant, high-tech, and demand-driven. As a result, the net impacts of the RFS and ethanol production on the agriculture sector have been decidedly positive, and U.S. meat output and retail food prices have not been adversely affected.” Before answering in detail nine questions on topics ranging from commodity prices, job creation, inherent RFS flexibility, food prices, future cellulosic benefits, and impact on global agriculture production and land use, Dinneen framed the larger discussion and conclusion.  “…[T]he RFS is absolutely essential for stimulating future demand and driving investment in the next generation of feedstocks and biofuels. Without the RFS to drive future growth in renewable fuels, production and use of renewable fuels would stagnate or regress due to 1) the resistance of refiners to produce and sell gasoline blends with greater than 10% ethanol, and 2) abandonment of investments in advanced and cellulosic biofuels due to the lack of market certainty. As a result, consumers would be denied the additional economic and environmental benefits associated with greater ethanol use. “Moreover, while we understand the Committee is interested in specifically examining the impacts of the RFS, it is somewhat counterproductive to examine only the potential impacts of a single transportation energy option (i.e., renewable fuels) in isolation of other competing energy options (i.e., unconventional petroleum). That is, petroleum demand and prices also have important effects on U.S. agricultural and food markets. Every step of the food supply chain is reliant on petroleum products—from the use of diesel fuel in farm machinery, to the use of natural gas in food processing plants, to the use of plastics in food packaging, to the use of gasoline and diesel fuel to transport food to the grocery store or restaurant. The correlation coefficient between global food prices and global oil prices since 2000 has been 0.92, which indicates a near-perfect relationship (1.0 is a perfect correlation).We understand that the economic effects of petroleum dependence are outside of the scope of the Committee’s current initiative, but biofuels should not be considered in a vacuum.” There is no credible evidence whatsoever to support the notion that the RFS is adversely affecting consumer food prices. Indeed, food price inflation has been falling since the RFS was enacted, and Americans are spending less on food than any time in history. The following chart clearly demonstrates that there is NO correlation between rising ethanol production and food prices, and the falling percentage of disposable income Americans spend on food. Click to enlarge. Read the RFA comments in full.   About the Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association is the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Its mission is to advance the development, production, and use of ethanol fuel by strengthening America’s ethanol industry and raising awareness about the benefits of renewable fuels. RFA’s members are working to help America become cleaner, safer, more energy independent and economically secure. For more information, visit www.EthanolRFA.org. 2013-04-30T14:16:09+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/group-of-senators-call-on-ustr-to-investigate-eu-anti-dumping/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/group-of-senators-call-on-ustr-to-investigate-eu-anti-dumping/ (April 30, 2013) WASHINGTON — Fourteen Democratic and Republican Senators have joined together to sign a letter sent to the Acting United States Trade Representative (USTR), Demetrios Manatos and Acting Secretary of Commerce, Rebecca Blank, calling on them to review and consider a World Trade Organization (WTO) challenge to the European Union’s  controversial and unprecedented anti-dumping duty recently imposed on U.S. ethanol producers.  The letter was co-authored by Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and cosponsored by Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Al Franken (D-MN), Mike Johanns (R-NE), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tim Johnson (D-SD), John Hoeven (R-ND), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Pat Roberts (R-KS), Richard Durbin (D-IL) and Roy Blunt (R-MO).   Commenting on the rare bipartisan agreement generated by this outrageous anti-dumping duty, Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, and Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy, issued the following joint statement: “We are pleased to see that members of the United States Senate have taken action against this outrageous claim by the European Union and have asked the USTR to further investigate the matter. “The EU Commission failed to make any particular finding of dumping by any producer or marketer investigated in connection with the case. If allowed to stand, this rule would set a dangerous precedent for trade and trade remedies in advance of important trade talks between the U.S. and the EU, and furthermore will dramatically change the boundaries and limits of international anti-dumping law.  “The EU’s recent actions are unprecedented and we believe that the World Trade Organization (WTO) will nullify this blatantly protectionist country-wide anti-dumping duty on exports of ethanol from the United States.”   About the Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association is the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Its mission is to advance the development, production, and use of ethanol fuel by strengthening America’s ethanol industry and raising awareness about the benefits of renewable fuels. RFA’s members are working to help America become cleaner, safer, more energy independent and economically secure. For more information, visit www.EthanolRFA.org. About Growth Energy Growth Energy is a group committed to the promise of agriculture and growing America's economy through cleaner, greener energy. Growth Energy members recognize America needs a new ethanol approach. Through smart policy reform and a proactive grassroots campaign, Growth Energy promotes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding the use of ethanol in gasoline, decreasing our dependence on foreign oil, and creating American jobs at home. More information can be found at GrowthEnergy.org. ### Press contact: Michael Frohlich at (202) 545-4000 or mfrohlich@growthenergy.org. 2013-04-30T13:27:03+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-production-continues-to-reduce-its-footprint/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-production-continues-to-reduce-its-footprint/ (April 29, 2013) WASHINGTON — A new study released today entitled “2012 Corn Ethanol: Emerging Plant Energy and Environmental Technologies” found that recent innovations in corn ethanol production have resulted in increased yield per bushel even as less energy is required for production. Thermal energy use at a typical dry mill ethanol plant has fallen 9% since 2008, the study found, meaning the carbon footprint of corn ethanol continues to shrink. The authors, Steffen Mueller, PhD, of the University of Illinois at Chicago Energy Resources Center and John Kwik, PE, of Dominion Energy Services, LLC wrote in summary, “Our work includes an assessment of over 50% of operating dry grind corn ethanol plants. On average, 2012 dry grind plants produce ethanol at higher yields with lower energy inputs than 2008 corn ethanol.” They continue, “Furthermore, significantly more corn oil is separated at the plants now, which combined with the higher ethanol yields results in a slight reduction in DDG production and a negligible increase in electricity consumption.” The table below summarizes the 2012 survey results and contrasts them with 2008 operating efficiencies. 2012 Corn Ethanol 2008 Corn Ethanol Yield (anhydrous/undenatured, gallon/bushel) 2.82 2.78 Thermal Energy (Btu/gallon, LHV) 23,862 26,206 Electricity Use (kWh/gallon) 0.75 0.73 DDG Yield (dry basis) including corn oil (lbs/bu) 15.73 15.81 Corn Oil Separated (lbs/bushel) 0.53 0.11 Water Use (gallon/gallon) 2.70 2.72   Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), commented on the new findings. “Once again, the innovation and dedication of this industry is borne out in the science and data. Ethanol producers are constantly evolving, innovating, and improving the production process. As a result, today’s ethanol industry is using less energy and water than ever before and greatly reducing GHG emissions associated with the corn ethanol lifecycle. Today’s ethanol producers are conscientious stewards of this country’s precious resources and this country’s energy future. The ethanol industry is a classic example of American ingenuity driving success.” The study also summarizes several new technologies being adopted by ethanol producers and feedstock providers. Read the study in full. 2013-04-29T19:59:02+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/florida-senate-vote-is-meaningless-gesture-federal-rfs-still-applies/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/florida-senate-vote-is-meaningless-gesture-federal-rfs-still-applies/ (April 24, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today, the Florida Legislature passed HB4001, a bill that repeals the state Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). In a joint statement, Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, and Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy, commented on final passage: “Today’s Senate vote was a pyrrhic victory for ethanol detractors. It substantively changes nothing because the state mandate was redundant. The federal Renewable Fuel Standard will still apply and, thankfully for consumers who will continue to see savings at the pump, ethanol and other renewable fuels will be sold in Florida. “All this bill has done is put politics and oil industry profits ahead of economic opportunity and jobs in the state. The only result of this legislation will be a loss of jobs and economic opportunity in Florida. Florida has made it clear — biofuels and the valuable jobs that are created in the renewable fuels industry are no longer welcome in Florida.”   About the Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association is the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Its mission is to advance the development, production, and use of ethanol fuel by strengthening America’s ethanol industry and raising awareness about the benefits of renewable fuels. RFA’s members are working to help America become cleaner, safer, more energy independent and economically secure. For more information, visit www.EthanolRFA.org. About Growth Energy Growth Energy is a group committed to the promise of agriculture and growing America's economy through cleaner, greener energy. Growth Energy members recognize America needs a new ethanol approach. Through smart policy reform and a proactive grassroots campaign, Growth Energy promotes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding the use of ethanol in gasoline, decreasing our dependence on foreign oil, and creating American jobs at home. More information can be found at GrowthEnergy.org. ### Press contact: Michael Frohlich at (202) 545-4000 or mfrohlich@growthenergy.org. 2013-04-24T19:23:20+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-announces-third-new-member-this-month-welcome-redfield-energy-llc/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-announces-third-new-member-this-month-welcome-redfield-energy-llc/ (April 19, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) today welcomed its third new member this month: Redfield Energy, LLC of Redfield, South Dakota. Dana Siefkes-Lewis, Chief Administrative Officer for Redfield Energy, explained the appeal of the RFA. “RFA’s success is driven by the deep engagement of its members. Regardless of size — large or small, publicly-traded or farmer-owned — every company has a vote and voice. We look forward to our involvement, in particular, with RFA’s technical, co-products, safety and environmental committees. We are excited to be part of an open dialogue within the industry about the expanding, innovative, diverse future of renewable fuels.” “We will have a seat at the table and warm welcome ready for Redfield Energy at our next Board meeting. It will be helpful to hear firsthand their production experiences and innovative ideas. Today, the chorus supporting the Renewable Fuel Standard and E15 just got a little stronger and a little louder. RFA welcomes Redfield Energy”, said Bob Dinneen, RFA’s President and CEO. Redfield Energy, LLC (RE) is a 55 million gallon per year ethanol production facility located two miles north of Redfield, S.D. It employs 43 full-time employees. It is a dry mill plant that became operational in April of 2007. On Feb. 3, 2013, RE produced its 300 millionth gallon of ethanol.  RE is a South Dakota LLC comprised of 850 members. It processes approximately 20 million bushels of corn into ethanol a year and produces approximately 162,000 tons of modified wet and dried distillers grain, which is sold to the local and West Coast markets.   About the Renewable Fuels Association The Renewable Fuels Association is the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Its mission is to advance the development, production, and use of ethanol fuel by strengthening America’s ethanol industry and raising awareness about the benefits of renewable fuels. RFA’s members are working to help America become cleaner, safer, more energy independent and economically secure. RFA is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of one representative of each ethanol producing company. All Board Members get a vote in setting association policy. Visit www.EthanolRFA.org.  2013-04-19T14:39:34+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminars-coming-to-ohio/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminars-coming-to-ohio/ (April 18, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway will co-host two Ethanol Safety Seminars in Ohio under a Federal Railroad Administration grant that the RFA received last fall. The first seminar will be held on Wednesday, April 24th at the American Red Cross in Akron. The second seminar will be held in Canton on Thursday, April 25th in the auditorium of the Canton Township Training Center. Both seminars are free and feature a morning session from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and an evening session from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Lunch and dinner will be provided. The seminars are designed for individuals who will respond to ethanol-related emergencies as well as those who work at fixed-facilities and transport fuel. The goal of these seminars is for attendees to gain full ethanol emergency response training experience that they can put to use immediately in the field as well as pass along to other first response teams. A majority of this training is based on the Complete Training Guide to Ethanol Emergency Response, a training package created by the Ethanol Emergency Response Coalition (EERC) that has been distributed throughout the United States and to several countries worldwide. “The Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway takes pride in its commitment to safety; not only to its employees but also to the folks of the cities and towns that we travel through,” said John Vergis, Assistant Environmental Officer at Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway. “Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway is a big supporter of Emergency Responder training events, and as a transporter of ethanol, would like to reach out to as many first responders as possible so that they can better prepare themselves in the event of an incident involving ethanol. The Wheeling & Lake Erie would like to thank the Renewable Fuels Association, the Ethanol Emergency Response Coalition, the Federal Railroad Administration and TRANSCAER® for helping make this event possible.” Attendees will receive in-depth information on proper training techniques that first responders and hazmat personnel need to effectively respond to an ethanol-related emergency. While primarily targeting first responders, hazmat teams, safety managers, and local emergency planning committees, it is also open to the general public. “Ethanol accounts for 10 percent of our nation’s fuel supply, blended into 97 percent of gasoline across the country,” said Kristy Moore, RFA Vice President of Technical Services. “With this high volume of blended fuel traveling through communities, it is essential that first responders are as fully prepared as possible to act immediately in the unfortunate event of an ethanol emergency. Safety will always be a priority in the ethanol industry and we are thrilled to be able to offer this type of training.” The Ethanol Safety Seminar focuses on numerous important areas of ethanol safety including an introduction to ethanol and ethanol-blended fuels, chemical and physical characteristics of ethanol and hydrocarbon fuels, transportation and transfer of ethanol-blended fuels, storage and dispensing locations, firefighting foam principles and ethanol-blended fuel, health and safety considerations for ethanol-blended fuel emergencies and tank farm and bulk storage fire incidents. Certificates will be awarded by the Ohio Fire Academy at the completion of the course. To register for this seminar, go to www.rfa.traincaster.com. The RFA will be co-hosting Ethanol Safety Seminars throughout 2013. Scheduled seminar locations include: Troy, Mich., on May 9th; Grand Island, Neb., on June 12th; Columbus, Neb., on June 13th; Salem, Ore., on June 18th and 19th; and a state-wide tour of California throughout July. For more information on ethanol emergency response, visit the EERC website at www.EthanolResponse.com. 2013-04-18T13:53:14+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/iea-calls-for-major-scale-up-in-global-biofuels-production/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/iea-calls-for-major-scale-up-in-global-biofuels-production/ (April 17, 2013) TORONTO, Canada – Today, the International Energy Agency (IEA) released their Tracking Clean Energy Progress report in New Delhi, which detailed the increased role that biofuels will need to play in reducing Green House Gases (GHG) as part of their Climate Change Scenario by 2020. The Global Renewable Fuels Alliance applauded this finding, stating that biofuels are already significantly reducing global GHG emissions. According to the report we are currently not on track to meet the IEA’s goal of holding global climate change to a 2°C rise by 2020. According to the IEA’s Energy Sector Carbon Intensity Index (ESCII) our average CO2 emissions have only improved by 0.02 tonnes of CO2 per tonne of oil equivalent in the last 20 years. In order to reach the 2020 target the IEA recommended that annual biofuels production needs to more than double and advanced biofuels capacity must increase six-fold. “Biofuels are the only real viable option available today to reduce emissions in the transportation sector,” stated Bliss Baker, spokesperson for the GRFA. “We agree with the IEA that biofuels offer real GHG emissions reductions today and that we must increase biofuel usage if we want to mitigate the impacts of climate change,” added Baker. In order to facilitate this major scale up in global biofuels production, the IEA released some specific recommendations for governments in their report: Lessen the risks for early investors through mechanisms such as loan guarantees, guaranteed premiums for advanced biofuels, or direct financial support for first-of-a-kind investments. Targeted policy support for advanced biofuels is required to ensure large-scale deployment. Monitor sustainability in feedstock production. “Frankly, the GRFA is not surprised by these findings, despite the commitments from world leaders we are clearly struggling to reduce emissions in the transportation sector,” concluded Baker. Figures from the GRFA and (S&T)2 Consultants Inc. reveal that world ethanol production in 2012 reduced global GHG emissions by over 100 million tonnes. This equates to taking over 20 million cars off the road.   The Global Renewable Fuels Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting biofuel friendly policies internationally. Alliance members represent over 65% of the global biofuels production from 44 countries. Through the development of new technologies and best practices, the Alliance members are committed to producing renewable fuels with the smallest possible footprint. For More Information Please Contact:Bliss BakerGlobal Renewable Fuels AlliancePhone: (Country Code “1”) 647-309-0058Email: info@globalrfa.orghttp://www.globalrfa.org 2013-04-17T17:57:31+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/a-picture-is-worth-a-thousand-words-rfa-busts-big-oils-blend-wall-myth/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/a-picture-is-worth-a-thousand-words-rfa-busts-big-oils-blend-wall-myth/ (April 15, 2013) WASHINGTON — If a picture is worth a thousand words, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) today busted Big Oil’s blend wall myth in one illustration. Bob Dinneen, RFA’s President and CEO, commented on the graphic, saying, “This graphic perfectly captures the ridiculous myth that an insurmountable blend wall exists. The blend wall is a false façade built by the oil companies to protect their oil monopoly. The real walls are the ones they are building to keep legitimate, well-tested, cost-saving renewable fuel alternatives, like E85 and E15, out of the marketplace. They are building walls between consumers, gas stations, and the freedom to choose. Denial is the mortar holding these walls together — the denial that the Renewable Fuel Standard is a proven success and a powerful energy policy that needs to continue unchanged well into the future if the gains we have made in reducing our dependence on foreign oil, creating valuable jobs domestically, and improving our environment are to be sustained.” Dinneen continued, “You could say oil companies are building a wall between America’s future and America’s petroleum-dependent past... but given recent events in Arkansas and New Hampshire, perhaps it is more of a moat of toxic ground water and spilled oil.” A brief explanation of each brick in the wall blocking proper implementation by the oil industry of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and E15 are available at www.EthanolRFA.org. 2013-04-15T15:14:54+00:00