http://www.ethanolrfa.org/ en Copyright 2013 2013-10-16T13:09:41+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminar-planned-in-tacoma-wash/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminar-planned-in-tacoma-wash/ (October 16, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railway will co-host a free Ethanol Safety Seminar on Oct. 23 and 24 at the Tacoma Fire Department Training Center in Tacoma, Wash. Sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration is limited to the first 60 people per session. Lunch will be provided. Certificates of attendance 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. “These training opportunities allow community responders to become more knowledgeable and better prepared to respond safely and effectively to incidents involving ethanol,” said Patrick Brady, assistant director of hazardous materials at BNSF Railway. “We feel it is important to bring in leaders in the hazmat emergency response field to share the best practices for responding to ethanol incidents with responders in communities that we serve.” 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 has been co-hosting Ethanol Safety Seminars throughout 2013. There are two remaining Ethanol Safety Seminars scheduled for the year. They will take place on Oct. 29 in Albuquerque, N.M., and on Nov. 14 in Pipestone, Minn. For more information on ethanol emergency response, visit the EERC website at www.EthanolResponse.com.   About the Renewable Fuels AssociationThe 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 the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Today’s BNSF Railway is the product of nearly 400 different railroad lines that merged or were acquired over the course of 160 years. While many different railroads combined to form BNSF, the people who worked at those railroads shared many traits. The people who built BNSF were — and continue to be — a unique breed, blending the forward-thinking of dreamers with the pragmatism of results-oriented business leaders. This heritage played a central role in settling and growing the American West, and today, BNSF continues to have a significant impact in meeting the needs of shippers and serving the economy. Visit www.bnsf.com. 2013-10-16T13:09:41+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-protects-against-repeat-of-devastating-effects-of-1973-oil-embargo/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-protects-against-repeat-of-devastating-effects-of-1973-oil-embargo/ (October 15, 2013) WASHINGTON — On the eve of the 40th anniversary of the 1973 Oil Embargo, Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), wrote on the E-Xchange blog: The gas lines of 1973 are iconic images in America’s collective memory. October 16th marks the 40th anniversary of the oil embargo imposed by the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) as punishment for America’s support of Israel during the Yom Kippur War. To be exact, on that date, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) decided to raise the price of oil by 70 percent a barrel and cut production over time in 5 percent increments until they were satisfied that their political policies were understood and respected. If you are of a certain age, your mind is likely racing through past memories of gas rationing, long lines waiting to fill-up, odd and even number license plates determining what days you could go to the gas station, red and green flags designating whether stations had fuel at all, bans on Christmas tree lights, and real, but ridiculous, threats of toilet paper shortages as a result of the embargo. Now, with as much clarity, can you recall what this country has done to protect its economy from being similarly hijacked by Middle Eastern oil supply disruptions or price shocks induced by a global price-setting cartel? U.S. energy independence is at the heart of this country’s economic and national security. The modern industry was born from the energy crisis of 1973 and officially launched by energy legislation signed into law by President Jimmy Carter. The spirit and intent of that law to establish a domestic, renewable fuel alternative to foreign oil has been supported by Democratic and Republican Presidents ever since. Ethanol has the proven ability to not only displace foreign oil and stretch our existing domestic oil supply; it has proven to lower the price per gallon of gasoline, replace lead and other toxins, reduce green house gas emissions all while stimulating economic development and job creation here in the United States. The facts speak for themselves: Today, ethanol makes up 10% of the U.S. gasoline supply. That’s up from less than 1% just 20 years ago. (Energy Information Administration, Renewable Fuels Association) Last year, ethanol displaced an amount equivalent to the gasoline refined from 462 million barrels of imported crude oil. That is more oil than the U.S. imported from Saudi Arabia. (Energy Information Administration. Cardno ENTRIX, “Contribution of the Ethanol Industry to the Economy of the United States”, January 2013) As a result, the U.S. has reduced expenditures on imported oil by $44 billion last year. (Cardno ENTRIX, “Contribution of the Ethanol Industry to the Economy of the United States”, January 2013) Oil imports from OPEC are down 22% since the Renewable Fuel Standard was expanded in 2007.” (Energy Information Administration) And oil imports from the Persian Gulf are down 30%over the past decade.” (Energy Information Administration) Oil import dependence dropped to 41% in 2012 — the lowest since 1995. Without ethanol, oil import dependence would have been 48%. (Energy Information Administration, Renewable Fuels Association) Ethanol has reduced gasoline prices by an average of $1.00 per gallon in 2012 and 2013. (Philip K. Verleger, August Petroleum Economics Monthly) Currently, 211 ethanol plants produce over 13 billion gallons and support over 380,000 jobs while contributing more than $43.4 billion in U.S gross domestic product. (Cardno ENTRIX, “Contribution of the Ethanol Industry to the Economy of the United States”, January 2013) You would think accomplishments this noteworthy would merit cheering rather than jeering. Sadly, we live in a world where petty political theatrics, Big Oil corporate money, and small-minded misinformation undermine the single most effective energy policy this country has known, the Renewable Fuel Standard, a successor of the 1980 Energy Security Act. Economic times are hard enough as is; hopefully it won’t take another energy crisis to wake Congress up to the economic and national security importance of a domestically-produced, renewable fuel alternative. Now is not the time to roll back policies and undercut the progress this country has made. Ethanol is fueling a stronger, healthier, more independent nation. 2013-10-15T16:37:00+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/new-analysis-affirms-scientific-foundation-for-e15/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/new-analysis-affirms-scientific-foundation-for-e15/ (October 10, 2013) WASHINGTON — After carefully reviewing 43 studies on the effects of E15 on engine durability, emissions, and other factors, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) issued a report finding that the available literature “…did not show meaningful differences between E15 and E10 in any performance category.” With respect to the Coordinating Research Council’s (CRC) controversial engine durability study, NREL found “…the conclusion that engines will experience mechanical engine failure when operating on E15 is not supported by the data.” The objective of the NREL review was to assess the research conducted to date applicable to the effects of E15 use in model year 2001 and newer vehicles, including the aspects that were not a part of EPA’s considerations when approving E15. Specifically, NREL reviewed 33 unique research studies, as well as 10 related reviews, studies of methodology, or duplicate presentations of the same research data. Further underscoring EPA approval of the safety and efficacy of E15, NREL experts found that 2001 and newer vehicles are well equipped to adapt to the ethanol content in both E10 and E15. The engine performance and durability expectations from the materials compatibility and emissions test results (for E15) are confirmed by studies of fuel system, engine and whole vehicle durability. The fact that there are 33 unique studies focused on materials compatibility, engine and fuel system durability, exhaust emissions, catalyst durability, effects on on-board diagnostics and evaporative emissions seems lost on the emphasis placed on one refuted study. According to Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, “The disputed CRC engine durability study has been at the center of Big Oil’s political crusade against E15, and policymakers have been given the false impression that the CRC project is the one and only study that has been conducted on E15. Nothing could be further from the truth. The NREL report reflects a substantial review of literature on E15 research showing no meaningful concern with using the fuel and exposes the many methodological shortcomings of studies API is citing on engine durability.” Dinneen continued, “It’s time for Big Oil to stop using actors to scare people about E15. It’s time they start paying attention to the overwhelming data and real world experience demonstrating the efficacy of E15.” The NREL report identified numerous flaws and gaps in several of the studies reviewed.  For the CRC engine durability study these include: Faulty leakdown failure criteria. Most of the “failures” on E15 and E20 were related to engines that did not pass an arbitrary cylinder “leakdown” test. While other tests in the CRC study used established standards from OEMs and EPA, the leakdown test utilized arbitrary criteria with no scientific basis. According to NREL, “CRC selected a 10% leakdown failure limit, more restrictive (50% below) than that of the lowest value specified by OEMs for engines in the study.” Failure to use E10 as a control fuel. Engines that “failed” on E20 or E15 were subsequently tested on E0, but not on E10 (despite the fact that E10 is the predominant in-use fuel today). This approach presumes that failures were related to ethanol content, rather than any number of other factors that could have caused the failure. Inappropriate statistical analysis. The CRC study used assumed values (i.e., “dummy data”) for vehicles that were not actually tested. These dummy values demonstrated consistent bias in relation to the question that the analysis was intended to determine. “By critically examining the universe of studies on mid-level ethanol blends, the NREL report brings important context and scientific credibility back to the debate over E15,” Dinneen said. “In addition to providing an appreciation for the entire body of scientific work on E15, the report will undoubtedly assist policymakers and the public in recognizing the substantial body of research that has been conducted on E15 showing no evidence of deterioration in engine durability or maintenance issues.” The NREL study was sponsored by the Renewable Fuels Association. View the study and its appendix. 2013-10-10T19:33:13+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/api-lawsuit-is-frivolous-2013-rfs-requirements-can-be-easily-met/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/api-lawsuit-is-frivolous-2013-rfs-requirements-can-be-easily-met/ (October 8, 2013) WASHINGTON — Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, commented on a lawsuit filed today by the American Petroleum Institute (API) with the D.C. Circuit Court against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volume requirements for 2013. “This is another frivolous effort by API to abuse the court system in their slavish effort to repeal a public policy that is working for farmers, gasoline marketers, and consumers. While the 2013 RVOs were issued later than anyone would have liked, the fact is the statute is crystal clear, and all stakeholders have been producing and blending at levels that will unquestionably meet the 2013 requirements. This is a lawsuit in search of a problem.” Relevant Background Information According to data from EPA Moderated Transaction System (EMTS): 8.65 billion renewable fuel (D6) RINs were generated through August. This implies at least 13 billion D6 RINs will be generated for calendar year 2013. When combined with the 2.0 billion D6 RINs carried forward from 2012, there will be approximately 15 billion D6 RINs available to comply with a requirement of 13.8 billion. In fact, there is likely to be a surplus of at least 1.2 billion D6 RINs carried in to 2014. 1.6 billion biomass-based diesel (D4) RINs were generated through August, implying an annual total of 2.4 billion D4 RINs. In addition, nearly 290 million surplus D4 RINs generated in 2012 were carried in to 2013. Obviously, there will be more than enough D4 RINs to meet the 1.92 billion RIN biodiesel requirement. 408 million advanced biofuel (D5) RINs were generated through August, meaning the industry is on pace to generate 612 million D5 RINs. When combined with surplus D5 RINs carried forward from 2012, and recognizing that surplus biodiesel (D4) RINs can be used in lieu of D5 RINs, there will be no problem in meeting the 2013 advanced biofuel requirement.  Additional Facts: EPA waived the statutory cellulosic biofuel standard by 99% in 2013. Through August, nearly 130,000 cellulosic biofuel RINs had been generated, and RIN generation is expected to accelerate in the remainder of the year. The RFS regulation allows obligated parties to use cellulosic biofuel RINs or cellulosic biofuel waiver credits to meet their obligations. 2013-10-08T18:55:34+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-rff-offer-student-scholarships-to-attend-19th-annual-nec/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-rff-offer-student-scholarships-to-attend-19th-annual-nec/ (October 8, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association and Renewable Fuels Foundation (RFF) are offering six scholarships for students to attend the 19th Annual National Ethanol Conference in Orlando, Fla., on Feb. 17-19, 2014. Widely recognized as a “must-attend” event, the National Ethanol Conference (NEC) provides attendees with timely information on critical regulatory, marketing and policy issues facing the ethanol industry. The NEC is a perfect opportunity for students interested in the world of renewable fuels to meet and connect with ethanol industry leaders, top policymakers and preeminent experts in the field of renewable fuels. Experts will speak to the current market situation, and address how we as an industry can continue to grow through innovation, new technologies and feedstocks, and by developing more diverse and global markets. “The National Ethanol Conference is a unique opportunity for students to engage and interact with leading experts in the field,” said Mike Jerke, general manager of Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company and chairman of the Renewable Fuels Foundation. “As leaders in the ethanol industry today, it is our responsibility to educate and prepare the next generation of ethanol producers. This conference will give students a real world view of the industry and a foot in the door towards a future in ethanol production.” The scholarships will cover the cost of the NEC registration fee – a $790 value – making the conference free to chosen students. Recipients will be responsible for all other costs associated with travel to/from the conference, including airfare, hotel and non-conference meals. Additional financial assistance to offset travel expenses may be available at the discretion of the RFF/RFA. Applicants will be asked to explain in detail how this scholarship will assist them in achieving their academic and/or career goals in 500 words or less. Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation, a current resume and an official school transcript. This scholarship opportunity is open only to those students attending a U.S. institution of higher learning and enrolled in an approved ethanol-related program. All applications must be submitted by Dec. 13. To download an application, please click here. 2013-10-08T13:08:41+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/hlpe-refuses-to-release-sources-of-funding-for-report-grfa/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/hlpe-refuses-to-release-sources-of-funding-for-report-grfa/ (October 7, 2013) TORONTO, Canada — As the Committee on World Food Security’s (CFS) annual Plenary gets underway in Rome, the Global Renewable Fuels Alliance (GRFA) is demanding the High Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition (HLPE) withdraw their Biofuels and Food Security report given its flaws and their refusal to release the report’s funding sources. Biofuel industry associations representing Canada, the United States and European Ethanol producers sent a joint letter to members of the HLPE Steering Committee highlighting the numerous flaws in the reports drafting process and demanded to know the sources of funding behind it. “It is not surprising that the final HLPE report was flawed given the secretive nature by which it was funded and the inherent biases among the appointed members of the so-called Project Team,” said Bliss Baker, spokesperson for the Global Renewable Fuels Alliance. The open letter released by the GRFA slammed the panel for the manner in which the project scope was finalized, the apparent disregard for stakeholder feedback provided during consultations, the opaque and secretive “external review” of the final draft report, the non-disclosure of the reports financial donors and the veiled process by which the Project Team was selected. “It became apparent early in the process that industry concerns were being dismissed without any explanation from the HLPE,” said Mr. Baker. “It is essential in any public policy process to explain decisions for accepting or rejecting recommendations from stakeholders, but regrettably, the HLPE did not believe that an open transparent process was required,” added Baker. Equally concerning to the GRFA was the secretive way the Project Team was selected. Key stakeholders should have been allowed to participate in selecting a Project Team but instead the HLPE “hand-picked” its members. This “hand-picked” team did not include a single expert from the biofuels industry but instead included a known biofuels critic who was the primary author of a highly controversial theory of predicting future land use patterns that has been widely criticised. “Effective policy is best informed with sound science and an open, transparent, deliberative process that involves the public. The HLPE did not adhere to any of these principles and because of these short comings the HLPE should withdraw the report at the CFS Plenary until these deficiencies are addressed,” concluded Baker. “Moreover, it is imperative that the HLPE disclose the financial donors who contributed to this report,” added Mr. Baker. To read the full letter to HLPE Steering Committee, please visit http://globalrfa.org/advocacy/grfa-letter-to-hlpe-steering-committee-re-withdrawing-biofuels-and-food-security-report. 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, Alliance members are committed to producing renewable fuels with the smallest possible footprint. Global Renewable Fuels Alliance, News, Press Release 2013-10-07T14:46:11+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/aec-releases-edited-version-of-api-rfs-letter/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/aec-releases-edited-version-of-api-rfs-letter/ (October 3, 2013) WASHINGTON — Early Wednesday morning, the American Petroleum Institute (API) circulated yet another communication to policymakers on Capitol Hill spreading false information about the federal Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). These arguments have been rebutted time and time again, so we are taking a different approach. We have decided to resend the API letter with corrective edits to illustrate the degree to which API is attempting to mislead Congress on the RFS. All text of the original API letter is included below. All strikethroughs and bolded text are added.     Dear XXXX, In 2007, Apple introduced the iPhone, Sen. Barack Obama announced his candidacy for president, and Congress passed the Energy Independence and Security Act authorizing the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). In 2013, we’re on the seventh iteration of the iPhone, President Obama is one year into his second term, and the RFS remains stuck in 2007 has launched a domestic renewable fuel industry that now employs almost 400,000 people, produces a fuel that is more than 50 cents cheaper than gasoline, and according to an oil analyst, saved consumers between $700 billion and $2.6 trillion in 2013 alone. Virtually every assumption for which the RFS was designed has been proven wrong right: Assumption: United States gasoline consumption oil dependence would continue to rise come at great cost to the U.S. economy and the environment. Fact: Demand is 424 million barrels less than the EIA projected for this year while U.S. production is 64 million barrels greater and imports are 241 million barrels fewer than 2007 projections. Unfortunately, the United States supplies just 8 percent of the world’s oil and the U.S. oil “boom” only increased U.S. output by 12 percent in 2012. This “boom” is a drop in the bucket. That’s why Americans continue to export their hard earned dollars overseas at the same or worse rate, and that’s why EIA expects expenditures on foreign oil to increase again to more than $1 billion per day in the near future. Fed Chairman Bernanke has repeatedly acknowledged that high oil prices are slowing down the economic recovery. Former oilman T. Boone Pickens says this level of expenditure on foreign oil “is killing our economy.” And the market reality is if we don’t use more renewable fuels as part of the solution to oil dependence, we will need more ecologically destructive tar sands to meet consumer demand. Canada may not be hostile, but those are not U.S. jobs. Assumption: Flex-fuel vehicles would grow in popularity, consuming higher ethanol blends that would account for increasing portions of the total ethanol volume required by the RFS. Fact: There are now 14-15 million Flex-fuel vehicles make up less than 7 percent of the U.S. vehicular fleet, and their owners opt for higher ethanol blends only 1 percent of the time -- perhaps due to lower mileage associated with the blends on the road today with the capacity to consume roughly 7 billion gallons of ethanol per year. With normal turnover, the increasingly flex-fuel vehicle fleet will be able to use more than 30 billion gallons of ethanol by 2018, which is ahead of the pace legislated by the RFS. EIA’s fuel economy website actually says fuel costs can be more than $1,000 higher per year when consumers use an E85 blend that E85 is cheaper than gasoline, even after correcting for lower energy content (i.e. even while not taking into account the lean burn potential of high ethanol blends). E85 stations are popping up all over the country as we speak. Assumption: Production levels of advanced cellulosic biofuels would be sufficient to support EPA’s mandate that refiners use 4 million gallons in 2013 substantial by 2013, but if delayed for  any reason (like global recession), EPA has the authority to waive the cellulosic biofuel blending requirement. Fact: While only 142,000 gallons had been produced through July of this year, the cellulosic biofuel industry is breaking through at commercial scale just 5 years after the signing of the RFS and notwithstanding the ongoing problems in the financial markets. The first commercial plants are up and running and more are on the way. And to be truthful, EPA has effectively waived more than 99 percent of the cellulosic biofuel blending obligation to date. This is easily verified via the EPA EMTS system. Assumption: Greater reliance on ethanol would lower costs for consumers. Fact: According to a study that API paid for by NERA Economic Consulting, the RFS could bring about a $770 billion decrease in U.S. GDP and a $580 billion decrease in take-home pay for American workers by 2015 due to potential reductions in the U.S. fuel supply. API is hoping that you will focus on this study instead of the many others touting the economic benefits of the RFS, such as the one recently released by an oil analyst (not commissioned by an industry group) concluding that “the U.S. renewable fuels program has cut annual consumer expenditures in 2013 between $700 billion and $2.6 trillion … [t]his translates to consumers paying between $0.50 and $1.50 per gallon less for gasoline.” Assumption: Increasing ethanol levels from 10 percent (E10) to 15 percent (E15) is safe. Fact: Extensive testing has determined that E15 is unsafe for many vehicles, potentially leading to fuel and engine system damage, fuel pump failures, and other problems. API is hoping that you will focus on this 8-car test that API paid for and managed, instead of the 86-car test conducted by DOE showing absolutely no engine damage from E15 or E20. API is also hoping that AAA will continue to ignore the DOE 86-car test, even though AAA has never picked someone up on the side of the road because of E15. Numerous automakers have warned in past years that engine damage caused by E15 will not be covered by warranty, but to be honest, more and more auto companies are joining the chorus in support of E15 by providing explicit warranty for E15. They just need some time to catch up to certifying a fuel that was only recently approved by EPA. Ethanol and other biofuels are an important part of America’s overall energy portfolio and will continue to be blended into the fuel supply. However, RFS mandates have become irredeemably unrealistic – requiring ever-greater volumes of ethanol to be blended into a quantity of fuel that is shrinking due to decreased demand. It’s time to repeal support the RFS. API knows that a small contingent of their members essentially control wholesale motor fuel markets, which in turn means that biofuel producers rely on an industry pitted against them for “off take” (sale) of their product. Without the RFS, this dynamic scares investment away from innovation in the sector, and ensures that the biofuels industry will not continue to innovate and grow. The bottom line is the motor fuel marketplace is broken, and the biofuels industry needs the RFS to achieve what a price-driven competitive marketplace would provide on its own: demand for a cleaner, cheaper product. Sincerely, Jack N. Gerard President & CEO API   Edited for accuracy by: Brooke Coleman Executive Director Advanced Ethanol Council Advanced Ethanol Council, News, Press Release 2013-10-03T15:35:20+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/big-oils-aggressive-and-misleading-poll-doesnt-accurately-reflect-public-op/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/big-oils-aggressive-and-misleading-poll-doesnt-accurately-reflect-public-op/ (October 2, 2013) WASHINGTON — The fact is the majority of the American people support the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and are happily, without incident, driving on E15 where available. Don’t be fooled by the biased polling released today by the American Petroleum Institute (API). In February, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) commissioned a poll to gauge support for the RFS and found that 64 percent of those polled favored the legislation. This June, that number increased in a Fuels America poll, which found that 73 percent of Americans support the RFS. That same poll also found that three out of four Americans want a renewable fuels choice at their gas station. We can agree on the fact that all consumers need more education and awareness of E15 (15 percent ethanol, 85 percent gasoline). The more you know, the more you want it. E15 is EPA approved for vehicles 2001 and newer. It is available at approximately 40 stations in nine states. In fact, consumers have already driven roughly 40 million miles on the blend in the past year without a single instance of engine damage or inferior performance. “If Big Oil push polled any harder, they would have broken respondents’ arms to get the biased answers they sought. This poll is yet another insincere stunt concocted by API to attack the RFS and higher level ethanol blends. If you want to see scary numbers, just look at the outrageous profits oil companies are posting thanks to their monopoly on the fuel market. It is bad enough that Americans are held hostage to environmentally damaging, expensive oil,” stated Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association. “Ethanol provides consumers with a fuel option that has proven to lower gas prices by $1/gallon on average in 2012 and 2013. It is no wonder that the most recent Fuels America poll shows that 73 percent of people support the Renewable Fuel Standard. Instead of scaring people, Big Oil should invest in the infrastructure to expand choice at the pump. Seriously, they need to stop baking the numbers to shield the fact that they are losing market share and the only way out is to attack the RFS.” 2013-10-02T19:41:52+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/global-ethanol-production-of-85-billion-litres-to-reduce-ghgs-by-100-millio/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/global-ethanol-production-of-85-billion-litres-to-reduce-ghgs-by-100-millio/ (Septemer 26, 2013) TORONTO, Canada – As the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change wraps up its Plenary Session and launches its assessment report in Stockholm, the Global Renewable Fuels Alliance (GRFA) in cooperation with F.O. Licht and (S&T)2 Consultants Inc. released their Global Annual Ethanol Production and Global Green House Gas Emission Reduction Forecasts. The GRFA is forecasting fuel ethanol production to hit 85 billion litres which will reduce GHG emissions by 100 million tonnes in 2013.Despite a fragile European economy and a slower than predicted global economic recovery, the GRFA in cooperation with F.O. Licht forecast a near 1.5% growth in ethanol output of 85 billion litres in 2013, up from just over 83 billion litres 2012.“This years forecast shows that even in the face of a difficult global economy, demand for biofuels is growing. This is excellent news but demand and production need to continue to grow to further reduce our reliance on crude oil,” said Bliss Baker, spokesperson for the Global Renewable Fuels Alliance.More positive news from this global growth is that ethanol production in all parts of the world, including the Americas, Africa, Asia and Europe are forecasted to increase, with the United States and Brazil continuing to be the largest producers.“Perhaps the best news of all is that Europe is forecasted to increase ethanol output by over 3% in 2013 as biofuels continue to be in demand and the industry continues to grow in the face of political wrangling and economic hardship,” stated Baker.In partnership with (S&T)2 Consultants Inc., an internationally renowned energy and environmental consulting firm, the GRFA released figures that demonstrate the positive impact global ethanol production continues to have on reducing global GHG emissions. Figures reveal that world ethanol production in 2013 will reduce global GHG emissions by nearly 274,000 tonnes per day. Compared to 2012, this is an increase of nearly 4000 tonnes per day in GHG reductions.“These encouraging numbers show that global biofuels production is reducing greater amounts of GHG emissions year after year which is playing a significant role in successfully combating climate change,” said Baker. “Reducing GHG emissions by over 100 million tonnes per year is very significant particularly in the transportation sector, it is equal to removing over 20 million cars off the road, that’s more than all the cars registered in Portugal and The Netherlands or all the cars in the Republic of Korea.”To learn more about biofuels around the world, visit the new GRFA website at www.globalrfa.org.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, Alliance members are committed to producing renewable fuels with the smallest possible footprint.For More Information Please Contact:Bliss BakerGlobal Renewable Fuels AllianceTelephone: (Country Code “1”) 647-309-0058Email: info@globalrfa.orgPlease visit the new website at www.globalrfa.com 2013-09-26T15:00:21+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/local-ethanol-plant-president-is-re-elected-to-rfa-leadership-team/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/local-ethanol-plant-president-is-re-elected-to-rfa-leadership-team/ (September 25, 2013) Minneapolis, MN – The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) is proud to announce Walter Wendland, CEO of Golden Grain Energy, LLC in Mason City, IA as Treasurer of the association at their annual membership meeting in Minneapolis, MN. Golden Grain Energy, LLC, is a 100 million gallon per year ethanol facility.In April 2004, Wendland began serving as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Golden Grain Energy, LLC. He previously served as board chairman and construction manager at Golden Grain Energy overseeing everything from development to start-up operations. Wendland also serves as of President and CEO of Homeland Energy Solutions. He has been involved in the ethanol industry for many years and served as a past President of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association.“I have been around ethanol and ethanol producers for many years now, and the ethanol industry is under the most vicious attack I have ever seen. We are fighting back and I am ready for another year supporting the RFS.” Wendland said. “I have seen firsthand the immense impact ethanol has had on my local communities, Iowa and the nation. I am proud of the ethanol we produce and will continue working with the RFA to ensure the ethanol industry thrives for years to come.”About Golden Grain Energy: Golden Grain Energy is a privately-held company dedicated to adding value to northern Iowa’s corn production by turning locally-grown corn into clean-burning ethanol. The company currently produces approximately 100 million gallons of ethanol annually at a plant in Mason City, Iowa, providing 48 individuals in rewarding professional careers. Owned by more than 800 members, the majority of whom are northeast Iowa farmers, Golden Grain Energy is committed to being a strong partner in the local community, a key player in the regional economy and a leader in Iowa’s ethanol industry. Learn more at www.goldengrainenergy.com.About Homeland Energy Solutions: Homeland Energy Solutions is a privately held company whose primary mission is to produce ethanol and it's co-products at a competitive cost and profitable level enabling them to provide a reliable source of superior quality product for their customers and society. Homeland Energy Solutions strives for a culture based on principled entrepreneurship, which means we strive to combine an unwavering desire to anticipate and cost-effectively satisfy our customers' needs. Located near Lawler, Iowa HES has the capacity to produce over 100 million gallons of ethanol per year and provides 45 rewarding high quality jobs. Learn more at www.homelandenergysolutions.com.About the RFA: 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 200 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 2013-09-25T20:35:50+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/kentucky-ethanol-producer-re-elected-to-renewable-fuels-association-leaders/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/kentucky-ethanol-producer-re-elected-to-renewable-fuels-association-leaders/ (September 25, 2013) Minneapolis – Today, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) announced that Mick Henderson, General Manager of Commonwealth Agri-Energy in Hopkinsville, KY, has been re-elected as the association’s Secretary at their annual membership meeting. Commonwealth Agri-Energy is a 33 million gallon per year ethanol facility that employs 30 members of the local community.Henderson has been with Commonwealth Agri-Energy since 2003, which came online in 2004. He has worked in the industry since 1981 and is in charge of all functions at the facility including plant engineering and construction, negotiating vender contracts, hiring and training all personnel, and developing and maintaining all company policies and programs. He is also involved with the Middle TN Clean Fuels Coalition, Kentucky Clean Fuels Coalition, Christian County Ag Advisory Committee and Hopkinsville Chamber of Commerce Governmental Affairs Committee.    “I have been in the industry for over 30 years and this is the biggest attack I have ever seen on ethanol. Next year is going to be a pivotal year as we defend the Renewable Fuel Standard. It is clear that the production and use of ethanol have reduced gas prices, decreased America’s dependence on foreign oil and revitalized rural communities. These are just some of the many positive impacts of ethanol on our society and I intend to work with RFA’s leadership team and staff to ensure ethanol remains strong both now and in the future,” Henderson stated.About Commonwealth Agri-Energy: Commonwealth Agri-Energy, LLC is proudly owned by the 2,300 members of the Hopkinsville Elevator CO-OP. As Kentucky’s only corn-to-ethanol biorefinery, the facility produces 33 million gallons of ethanol annually from 12 million bushels of local corn. Additionally, they produce 107,000 tons of Distillers Dried Grains, 3,000 tons of Distillers Corn Oil, and 110,000 tons of carbon dioxide for liquid CO2 and dry ice. Learn more at http://www.commonwealthagrienergy.com/.About the RFA: 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 200 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. 2013-09-25T20:29:22+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/neill-mckinstray-is-reappointed-as-chairman-of-the-renewable-fuels-assoc/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/neill-mckinstray-is-reappointed-as-chairman-of-the-renewable-fuels-assoc/ (September 25, 2013) Minneapolis – Today, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) re-elected Neill McKinstray as Chairman of its Board of Directors at their annual membership meeting held in Minneapolis, MN. McKinstray is President of the Ethanol Group, The Andersons, Inc. This will be McKinstray’s second year as Chairman of the RFA, having previously served as Vice Chairman of the association.   McKinstray was named President of the Ethanol Group, The Andersons, Inc. in late 2011. He had previously served as Vice President of The Andersons, Inc. grain and ethanol group since 2005. He began his career with The Andersons in 1976. McKinstray is primarily responsible for the management of The Andersons, Inc. ethanol biorefineries in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana and Iowa. He is also responsible for managing and directing third-party ethanol services provided by The Andersons.“Ethanol has proven to help families, rural communities, and consumers across the country. It reduces prices at the pump, revitalizes rural communities, and makes America safer by decreasing our dependence on foreign oil. The battle we are in will only continue to escalate and it is vitally important that the RFS remain in place.” McKinstray stated. “The RFA is a strong and vocal advocate for the ethanol industry and I look forward to another year working side by side with RFA’s highly professional staff and other producers to continue the growth and evolution of this vital industry. We all know what is ahead and I look forward to facing those challenges head on.” About The Andersons, Inc.: The Andersons, Inc. is a diversified company with interests in the grain, ethanol and plant nutrient sectors of U.S. agriculture, as well as in railcar leasing and repair, turf products production, and general merchandise retailing. Founded in Maumee, Ohio, in 1947, the company now has operations across the United States, in Puerto Rico, and has rail equipment leasing interests in Canada and Mexico. For more information, visit The Andersons online at www.andersonsinc.com.About the RFA: 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 200 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 2013-09-25T20:26:31+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/minnesota-local-ethanol-producer-named-vice-chairman-of-the-renewable-fuels/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/minnesota-local-ethanol-producer-named-vice-chairman-of-the-renewable-fuels/ (September 25, 2013) Minneapolis – The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) is proud to announce that Minnesota local Randall J. Doyal, CEO of Al-Corn Clean Fuel in Claremont, Minnesota, has been re-elected Vice Chairman of the association at their annual membership meeting. Al-Corn Clean Fuels produces 50 million gallons of ethanol annually.Doyal currently serves as General Manager and CEO of Al-Corn Clean Fuel and Al-Corn Limited Partnership in Claremont, Minnesota. He has dedicated 30 years to the ethanol industry, beginning his ethanol career in 1982 as a cooker at the Mountain Development Corporation.“In order to keep the ethanol industry healthy and growing we must continue the fight to promote and protect the Renewable Fuel Standard. I am proud to be on RFA’s team, and am dedicated to the future of the industry.” Doyal explained. “I have been in the industry for 30 years and one thing I know for sure, ethanol is good for our country and good for Minnesota.”About Al-Corn Clean Fuel: Al-Corn Clean Fuel is a farmer-owned ethanol production cooperative in Claremont, MN. Annually Al-Corn grinds 17.5 million bushels of corn and produces 50 million gallons of ethanol. In addition, the plant produces 132,000 tons of high protein livestock feed and 12 million pounds of corn oil, as well as captures carbon dioxide, all of which are resold. The cooperative model allows members and their communities to benefit from a secure local market and the co-op’s earnings and investments. Learn more at www.al-corn.com.About the RFA: 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 200 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 2013-09-25T20:20:51+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/renewable-fuels-association-announces-2014-leadership-roles/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/renewable-fuels-association-announces-2014-leadership-roles/ (September 25, 2013) Minneapolis – Today, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) announced the election of officers to the Board of Directors at their annual membership meeting held in Minneapolis, MN. The RFA re-elected Neill McKinstray as Chairman of the RFA Board of Directors. McKinstray is President of the Ethanol Group, The Andersons, Inc. This will be McKinstray’s second year as Chairman of the RFA, having previously served as Vice Chairman of the association.   McKinstray was named President of the Ethanol Group, The Andersons, Inc. in late 2011. He had previously served as Vice President of The Andersons, Inc. grain and ethanol group since 2005. He began his career with The Andersons in 1976. McKinstray is primarily responsible for the management of The Andersons, Inc. ethanol biorefineries in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana and Iowa. He is also responsible for managing and directing third-party ethanol services provided by The Andersons.“Ethanol has proven to help families, rural communities, and consumers across the country. It reduces prices at the pump, revitalizes rural communities, and makes America safer by decreasing our dependence on foreign oil. The battle we are in will only continue to escalate and it is vitally important that the RFS remain in place.” McKinstray stated. “The RFA is a strong and vocal advocate for the ethanol industry and I look forward to another year working side by side with RFA’s highly professional staff and other producers to continue the growth and evolution of this vital industry. We all know what is ahead and I look forward to facing those challenges head on.” Joining McKinstray, RFA elected:• Vice Chairman Randall J. Doyal, CEO of Al-Corn Clean Fuel in Claremont, Minnesota.• Treasurer Walter Wendland, CEO of Golden Grain Energy in Mason City, Iowa.• Secretary Mick Henderson, General Manager of Commonwealth Agri-Energy in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.• President Bob Dinneen, CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, Washington, DC.An entire list of RFA Membership can be seen here.About the RFA: 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 200 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. 2013-09-25T20:04:22+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/the-week-of-e85-new-stations-new-study/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/the-week-of-e85-new-stations-new-study/ September 25, 2013 (Washington) – Twenty-four new stations began offering E85 (85% ethanol/15% gasoline) in the last week, bringing the total number of stations offering this blend up to 139 this year. E85 is available to all flex-fuel vehicles. The new E85 stations come on the heels of a study released last week by Iowa State University’s Center for Agricultural and Rural Development (CARD). The new study by Prof. Bruce Babcock found that "... it is feasible to meet 2014 and 2015 biofuel mandates with expanded E85 consumption given existing numbers of flex vehicles and stations that sell E85." Other key conclusions include: • "...enough flex vehicles are located close enough to stations that sell E85 that significant volumes of E85 would be sold if it were appropriately priced." • "Current high RIN prices create a large incentive for oil companies to increase consumption of E85 because expansion in E85 consumption will decrease RIN prices." • "...pricing E85 low enough to generate fuel cost savings has the potential to quickly increase ethanol consumption, perhaps by three billion gallons over the next year or two." “E85 is in high demand and growing as retailers begin to see the advantages of offering the high level blend at their stations,” said Robert White, Director of Market Development at the Renewable Fuels Association. “The price savings can be seen across the country as more and more drivers demand additional fuel options and cheaper prices at the pump.” According to E85prices.com the average E85 price in Minnesota is $2.64/gallon compared to the $3.42/gallon average gas price today. In fact, E85 has been reported as low as $2.17/gallon in St. Paul, MN. The 24 new E85 stations include: Maumelle, ARRising Fawn, GAPlainfield, INPlainfield, INTerre Haute, INHebron, KYMorehead, KYWinchester, KYAlexandria, KYCheboygan, MIPinconning, MILancaster, OHCinncinnati, OHSpringfield, OHSouth Vienna, OHDayton, OHKettering, OHWest Carrolton, OHMiamisburg, OHBellefontaine, OHTulsa, OKOconomowoc, WIGreenfield, WIHuntington, WV 2013-09-25T16:22:17+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/new-analysis-ethanol-cutting-crude-oil-gasoline-prices/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/new-analysis-ethanol-cutting-crude-oil-gasoline-prices/ (September 23, 2013) WASHINGTON — Consumers are saving $0.50-1.50 per gallon on gasoline as a result of increased ethanol production under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), according to a new analysis by renowned energy economist Philip K. Verleger, who served as an advisor on energy issues to both the Ford and Carter administrations. “The implication for world consumers is clear… [T]he US renewable fuels program has cut annual consumer expenditures in 2013 between $700 billion and $2.6 trillion,” writes Verleger in a short commentary available on pkverlegerllc.com. “This translates to consumers paying between $0.50 and $1.50 per gallon less for gasoline.” The commentary summarizes a more detailed analysis that was included in Verleger’s August Petroleum Economics Monthly newsletter. Crude oil prices would be between $15-$40 per barrel higher today without the substantial volumes of ethanol that have been added to petroleum inventories since enactment of the RFS. According to the commentary, the RFS today has added “…the equivalent of Ecuador’s crude oil output to the world market at a time of extreme tightness.” “Had Congress not raised the renewable fuels requirement, commercial crude oil inventories at the end of August would have dropped to 5.2 million barrels, a level two hundred million barrels lower than at any time since 1990,” Verleger writes. “The lower stocks would almost certainly have pushed prices higher. Crude oil today might easily sell at prices as high as or higher than in 2008. Preliminary econometric tests suggest the price at the end of August would have been $150 per barrel.” The commentary is available here. Platts “The Barrel” blog first reported on Verleger’s analysis here. 2013-09-23T16:26:31+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/north-dakota-welcomes-six-new-e15-stations/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/north-dakota-welcomes-six-new-e15-stations/ (September 23, 2013) WASHINGTON — North Dakota is the newest state to begin offering E15 (15% ethanol, 85% gasoline) to consumers with vehicles 2001 and newer. E15 can now be found at six Petro Serve USA locations in Bismarck, Mandan, West Fargo, and Fargo, making North Dakota the ninth state to offer E15. “We are committed to offering our customers choice at the pump,” says Kent Satrang, CEO of Petro Serve USA. “Ethanol blends are the perfect partnership between North Dakota’s corn fields and oil fields. E15 provides a very cost-effective option for our consumers.” E15 is EPA tested and approved for all vehicles 2001 and newer. It has been offered for over 14 months and has been driven over 40 million miles. E15 is shown to save drivers an average of 10-15 cents per gallon compared to gasoline without ethanol. With the addition of the six North Dakota Petro Serve USA locations, E15 is now available in more than 40 stations in nine states. “North Dakota drivers now have additional, cost-saving options at the pump,” said Robert White, Renewable Fuels Association’s director of market development. “A recent Fuels America poll showed that 82% of Americans want E15 to be available at the gas station. It is tremendous to see stations in state after state begin to offer E15 and I hope this trend will continue in North Dakota as other stations see the success of the six Petro Serve USA stations. The spread of E15 is only beginning and I am proud that North Dakota is helping lead the way in E15 implementation.” According to the North Dakota Ethanol Council, the ethanol plants in the state contribute approximately $640 million/year to the North Dakota economy while also purchasing in-state grain and creating high protein feedstock (DDGS) that returns to local farms. North Dakota ethanol plants have created nearly 200 in-state jobs, and the industry indirectly supports another 10,000 jobs. More information about E15 can be found at www.chooseethanol.com/e15. 2013-09-23T16:23:52+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/chain-restaurants-partake-in-day-of-drive-thru-politics/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/chain-restaurants-partake-in-day-of-drive-thru-politics/ (September 18, 2013) WASHINGTON — The National Council of Chain Restaurants is back at it today talking to members of Congress in an attempt to make their case against the Renewable Fuel Standard. Their “Lobby Day” comes just as Fuels America released new polling numbers showing a large majority of people believe fast food restaurants should support renewable fuels, and that oil and gasoline are the real factors behind food prices. Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), highlights the difference between the views of the chain restaurants and their clientele, “This is clearly an example of ‘drive-thru’ politics. Today’s Fuels America poll shows that more than 8 out of 10 people believe the truth, that oil prices are driving food prices. The big shots who flew into Washington today want Congress to believe that ethanol and the RFS are driving up the price of corn and food. They are quick to blame it all on ethanol, ignoring the impact of high oil prices. But they are here under a false premise because ethanol demand is not driving corn prices higher. In fact, corn prices are actually falling in anticipation of record crops and an increase in world production. The real question is when will fast food restaurants reduce their prices to reflect their lower costs?” Dinneen continued, “Chain restaurants, as experts in drive-thru’s, should be the most cognizant of the impact of oil prices on food and transportation. There is a near perfect relationship between the UN Food Price Index and World Crude Oil prices, magnifying the negative impact of Big Oil. Additionally, since the RFS was enacted in 2005, oil prices have risen on average 10% a year, while retail food prices have only increased an average of 2.9% a year. The facts are clear, oil prices are the culprit behind rising food prices, not ethanol.” Please see RFA Infographic: “Ethanol Feeds and Fuels the World”. Facts worth noting: • Ethanol is not produced from the sweet corn that humans consume. It is made from field corn, which is used for livestock feed and industrial purposes. • One-third of every bushel of grain used in the ethanol process is returned to the market as nutrient-dense livestock and poultry feed. • Less than 3% of the global grain supply was used by the U.S. ethanol industry in 2012. • 34.4 million metric tons of animal feed were produced by ethanol plants in 2012. • 7 hamburgers per person worldwide could have been produced from the ethanol industry’s 2012 animal feed output. That is 50 billion hamburgers. • Only 16 cents of every dollar spent on food is related to agricultural ingredients. The remaining 84 cents goes to energy, packaging, food processing and other costs. 2013-09-18T16:50:41+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/joint-statement-ethanol-industry-reviewing-options-after-california-court-d/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/joint-statement-ethanol-industry-reviewing-options-after-california-court-d/ (September 18, 2013) WASHINGTON — Following a decision today by the 9th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals Court which will allow the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to continue the implementation of the low carbon fuel standard (LCFS), the Renewable Fuels Association and Growth Energy commented: “We are currently evaluating both the decision and the dissent. We are contemplating all legal options.”   About the Renewable Fuels Association The RFA is the national trade association for the U.S. ethanol industry. Since 1981, the RFA serves as the voice of the ethanol industry, providing advocacy, authoritative analysis, and important industry data to its members, Congress, federal and state government agencies, strategic partners, the media and other opinion-leader audiences. 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. 2013-09-18T14:35:27+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/gas-prices-stuck-at-3-and-above-ethanol-provides-price-relief-at-the-pump/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/gas-prices-stuck-at-3-and-above-ethanol-provides-price-relief-at-the-pump/ (September 17, 2013) WASHINGTON — Today officially marks the 1,000th day in a row that gas prices have been above $3/gallon. While ethanol provides drivers savings while filling up, AAA says that these gas prices are here to stay. Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), pointed out the obvious, “Gas prices are now staying at over $3 and could continue to increase, but ethanol is a viable and sustainable tool that could stop gas prices from rising at the pump. Renewable fuel is plentifully available right here, right now. If Big Oil would stop putting up barriers to offering E15 and other higher level blends, gas could be cheaper. In fact, the estimated discount of E15 is 10-15 cents cheaper per gallon than gasoline. Add that up and it shows real savings.” Dinneen continued, “If consumers had a renewable alternative at the pump, their gas prices could decrease and they would not be forced to change their driving habits and lifestyle. Vehicles are used every day to take kids to soccer practice, get to work, and go out to eat. Renewable fuels offer an alternative that can keep prices down and keep families on the go.” In 2011, ethanol saved drivers $1.09/gallon and families roughly $1,200 in gasoline purchases. E10 (10% ethanol, 90% gasoline) is blended in over 97% of the gasoline today, and just last Sunday E15 (15% ethanol, 85% gasoline) came back online for vehicles 2001 and newer. Right now E85 (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline) is available to flex fuel vehicles and according to E85prices.com the average E85 price in Iowa is $2.73/gallon compared to the $3.65/gallon average gas price today. In fact, E85 has been reported as low as $2.39/gallon in St. Ansgar, Iowa. 2013-09-17T15:57:31+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-informational-seminar-coming-back-to-california/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-informational-seminar-coming-back-to-california/ (September 16, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) will co-host a free Ethanol Safety Seminar on Sept. 24 and 25 at Camp San Luis Obispo in San Luis Obispo, Calif. Sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration is limited to the first 45 people per session. Lunch 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 these seminars 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. “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 at the completion of the course. To register for this seminar, go to www.rfa.traincaster.com. The RFA has been co-hosting Ethanol Safety Seminars throughout 2013. There are three remaining seminars scheduled for the year. They will take place on Oct. 23-24 in Tacoma, Wash.; Oct. 29 in Albuquerque, N.M.; and Nov. 14 in Pipestone, Minn. 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 the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services The California Governor's Office of Emergency Services exists to enhance safety and preparedness in California through strong leadership, collaboration, and meaningful partnerships. Our mission is founded in public service. Our goal is to protect lives and property by effectively preparing for, preventing, responding to, and recovering from all threats, crimes, hazards, and emergencies. Visit www.calema.ca.gov. 2013-09-16T13:26:54+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/welcome-back-e15/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/welcome-back-e15/ (September 12, 2013) WASHINGTON — The summer volatility restrictions for E15 end on Sept. 15 and the 15 percent ethanol blend will again be available to consumers with vehicles 2001 and newer. Due to EPA’s disparate regulatory treatment of volatility for E15 and E10, retailers were forced to change their pump labels on June 1 and offer E15 to flex-fuel vehicles only or stop offering the product altogether. Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, touted the reemergence of E15, “This is the beginning of what will be a great autumn of increased consumer choice. Compared to gasoline, E15 saves approximately 10-15 cents a gallon. That adds up to very real savings, at the pump and over the span of time.” E15 has been available in the marketplace since July 2012. In the past 14 months, E15 availability has expanded to approximately 40 stations in nine states. More than 40 million miles have been driven on E15 with no known cases of engine damage, misfueling, or liability claims. To learn more about E15, please see RFA’s factsheet “E15: One Year Later”. While E15 is the most tested fuel in the marketplace, critics nonetheless continue to take unfounded potshots in order to scare consumers away from any alternative to oil. Bobby Likis, an expert mechanic with over 40 years of award-winning auto service experience and host of the nationally syndicated radio auto show “Car Clinic”, speaks about his personal experience with ethanol and auto engines in a new video. “The fact is, ethanol does not ruin engines. Of the 200,000 engines I’ve serviced, not one has been damaged by ethanol, not one. In fact, engines thrive on high octane and ethanol has it.” In addition to the end of the summer volatility restrictions, new information from the Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) shows that the cost to install equipment to offer E15 is much lower than previously suggested and can be offset through increased gasoline sales and in store purchases, along with federal, state and local programs. So far the cost to install E15 averages less than $10,000.  “After three months of waiting, retailers with compatible equipment can finally start offering E15 if allowed by their franchises,” stated Robert White, RFA director of market development. “Given the economy, current gas prices, new data on consumer demand and sales revenue generated by retailers who are presently offering E15, I think you will see interest increase dramatically. There are definite benefits for marketers who are ready to present consumers with a cost-saving, environmentally-friendly, domestic, renewable alternative fuel. E15 is truly a win-win-win for retailers, consumers, and the nation as a whole. Everyone benefits from increased availability of E15.” Retailers who are interested in offering E15 should take these few steps in preparation of offering E15: Review retail fueling equipment and fuel supply for E15 suitability. Submit a request to the EPA to adopt RFA’s model Misfueling Mitigation Plan. Join a fuel survey program like the RFA supported RFGSA E15 fuel survey program. Use the EPA-required label(s). A step-by-step guide is available in the Renewable Fuels Association’s E15 Retailer Handbook. For More Information, please see: E15 Infographic Mechanic Bobby Likis Video PEI Cost Estimates Renewable Fuels Association’s E15 Retailer Handbook ChooseEthanol.com/E15 2013-09-12T17:24:03+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/pei-report-shows-actual-cost-of-installing-e15-is-much-lower-than-claimed/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/pei-report-shows-actual-cost-of-installing-e15-is-much-lower-than-claimed/ (September 10, 2013) WASHINGTON — The cost of upgrading an existing retail gas station to sell E15 is substantially less than recently suggested by ethanol opponents, according to new information from the Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI). E15 has now been in the marketplace for over a year, and those stations offering E15 have seen increases in both overall fuel sales and in-store sales. Unfortunately, some of the retailers wanting to explore E15 have been discouraged from doing so by biofuel opponents who hope to block widespread use of the new fuel blend. Those detractors have stated that adding E15 will cost retailers $200,000 to $300,000. The ethanol industry has repeatedly stated that such estimates represent an absolute worst-case scenario that would be far from the norm. In fact, the stations that offer E15 today have spent an average of just $10,000 per station to add the product—or slightly less than $0.01 per gallon of gasoline sold for the average retail gas station. Today, PEI further underscored the ethanol industry’s point that E15 station conversions can be done affordably. By request from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), PEI examined the potential cost of installing E15 at retail gas stations under 10 different scenarios. For example, stations that are just required to have compatible equipment can offer E15 with minimal investment. Those that can use existing dispensers—such as the Kansas station that was first in the country to sell E15 last summer—can offer E15 for under $1,200 on average per station. In this case, the investment in converting the station to sell E15 can be recouped in just one month (due to the potential for increased profitability from the sale of E15). Those that require a listing by a testing laboratory also have inexpensive options. Stations can choose to retrofit their dispensers to offer E15 for under $4,200 per dispenser on average or replace dispensers to offer E15 for under $20,500 per dispenser on average. Even new stations being built could add E15 for under $10,000 per dispenser on average. How do retailers pay for these upgrades? The good news is the return on investment (ROI) is quick given today’s markets. Given ethanol’s discount to gasoline and the current value of RINs, retailers offering mid-level ethanol blends like E15 can quickly recoup their investments in infrastructure. Retailers should also keep in mind that the PEI cost estimates do not include any available incentives that help defray installation costs. Federal, state and local incentives and grant programs are available in most areas, and would further help reduce the cost of equipment and installation. One example, the USDA’s REAP Program, has funded hundreds of blender pumps that can offer a range of ethanol blends like E15. Retailers interested in incentives should visit www.BYOethanol.com and click on incentives.   About the BYO Ethanol Campaign The BYO Ethanol Campaign is a group made up of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE), National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), and numerous state corn grower organizations. The campaign aims to install 5,000 blender pumps nationwide over the next three years. For more information, please contact: Robert White Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) rwhite@ethanolrfa.org (402) 391-1930 Ron Lamberty American Coalition for Ethanol rlamberty@ethanol.org (605) 334-3381 2013-09-10T13:58:54+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminar-scheduled-in-boardman-ore/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/ethanol-safety-seminar-scheduled-in-boardman-ore/ (September 9, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and the Oregon State Police — Office of State Fire Marshal will co-host a free Ethanol Safety Seminar on Sept. 16 at the SAGE Center in Boardman, Ore. 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. The morning session will be followed by an optional tour of the Pacific Ethanol, Inc. production plant at the Port of Morrow. Registration is limited to the first 100 people per session. Lunch and dinner will be provided. Certificates of Attendance 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. “Safety within the ethanol industry is of the utmost importance,” said Kristy Moore, RFA’s 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. To register for this seminar, go to www.rfa.traincaster.com. The RFA has been co-hosting Ethanol Safety Seminars throughout 2013. There are four remaining seminars scheduled for the year. They will take place on Sept. 24-25 in San Luis Obispo, Calif.; Oct. 23-24 in Tacoma, Wash.; Oct. 29 in Albuquerque, N.M.; and Nov. 14 in Pipestone, Minn. For more information on ethanol emergency response, visit the EERC website at www.EthanolResponse.com. 2013-09-09T13:04:43+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-welcomes-new-member-show-me-ethanol/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-welcomes-new-member-show-me-ethanol/ (September 6, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) is proud to showcase its newest member: Show Me Ethanol. Show Me Ethanol is located in Carrollton, Mo., with a 55 MMGY capacity, 38 employees, and more than 500 investors. The company produces ethanol along with high protein livestock feed and corn oil. They broke ground in March of 2007 and began production, ahead of schedule, in May 2008. Bob Dinneen, President of the Renewable Fuels Association, welcomed Show Me Ethanol and its General Manager Richard Hanson to RFA stating, “Show Me Ethanol is an exciting new addition to our board and we are looking forward to the experience and knowledge they bring to the table. They are going to be a big part of our national effort to protect the RFS in Congress so that we can continue decreasing America’s dependence on foreign oil, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, creating jobs, and revitalizing rural America.” Hanson expressed excitement in joining RFA explaining, “We are proud to join the Renewable Fuels Association as they have shown themselves to be leaders in research, analysis, and technical guidance. We are very impressed with the structure of their organization and believe RFA is the best voice for ethanol nationally.” Show Me Ethanol’s mission “is to provide clean renewable products to our customers, quality returns for our investors, and safe and ethical working conditions and benefits for our employees.” 2013-09-06T14:56:25+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/changing-red-will-increase-pressure-on-fragile-economy-and-environment/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/changing-red-will-increase-pressure-on-fragile-economy-and-environment/ (September 6, 2013) TORONTO, Canada — As the European Parliament begins its fall session, the Global Renewable Fuels Alliance (GRFA) is calling on the Members of the European Parliament to vote against any changes to the Renewable Energy Directive (RED). The proposed changes are based on unproven theories and will restrict the biofuel industry’s critical access to transportation fuel markets, negatively impacting the economy and environment. The GRFA and its largest members sent a joint letter to Parliamentarians outlining how the proposed changes to the Directive will severely hamper the tremendous economic and environmental potential that comes with developing the biofuels industry. “Programs like the RED have been very successful from an economic standpoint, contributing to a global industry that supports over 1.4 million jobs and contributes over $270 billion to the global economy each year,” said Bliss Baker, spokesperson for the GRFA. “From an environmental perspective, the global biofuels industry replaces the need for over 2 million barrels of crude oil and reduces GHG emissions by 268,000 tonnes per day. This is the same as taking nearly 20 million cars off the road,” said Baker. The RED in its current form is ground-breaking legislation that is being used to shape future biofuels policies in the European Union and around the world. It helps establish crucial investor confidence that plays a major role in the development of the European biofuels industry. Furthermore, the Directive includes requirements that guarantee that only biofuels produced in a sustainable manner are part of the European Union energy mix and will help bring advanced biofuels to full commercialization. The GRFA supports the sustainable development of biofuels and encourages the development of science-based research that advances the industry and continuously improves the GHG footprint of our fuels. In its letter, the GRFA criticises proposals to impose criteria such as Indirect Land Use Change (ILUC) on biofuels and warned Members about voting in favour of changes based on unproven theories and flawed scientific work. “The inclusion of ILUC criteria in the proposed amendments is a mistake because economic models simply cannot predict future land use patterns with a degree of certainty acceptable for policymaking. In fact, evidence shows hypothetical modeling results have been starkly contradicted by real-world land use patterns over the past decade,” stated Baker. “Although the RED is a European mandate, it is a model for programs around the world and will have a significant impact on the future of the global biofuels industry,” said Baker. “The proposed amendments before Parliamentarians are extremely short sighted and would only serve to increase Europe’s reliance on crude oil and increase GHG emissions,” said Baker. “Hurting a growing biofuels industry that employs millions and contributes billions is reckless when the economy is struggling to recover,” concluded Baker. 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, Alliance members are committed to producing renewable fuels with the smallest possible footprint. For More Information Please Contact: Bliss Baker Global Renewable Fuels Alliance Telephone: (Country Code “1”) 647-309-0058 Email: info@globalrfa.org Please visit our new website at www.globalrfa.com Global Renewable Fuels Alliance, News, Press Release 2013-09-06T13:00:11+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/access-to-over-230-ethanol-studies-and-reports-on-ethanolrfa.org/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/access-to-over-230-ethanol-studies-and-reports-on-ethanolrfa.org/ (September 5, 2013) WASHINGTON — The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) has updated and greatly expanded the “Reports and Studies” section of its web site, offering fast and easy access to more than 230 research papers, technical analyses, and studies on a wide variety of ethanol-related issues. “A tremendous amount of research has been conducted in recent years to examine the economic, environmental, and energy benefits of using ethanol,” said Geoff Cooper, RFA’s Vice President, Research and Analysis. “While ethanol opponents often use outdated information, hyperbole, and emotional scare tactics to cloud the energy debate, the facts and the science clearly underscore the advantages of using renewable fuels. The RFA library of reports and studies is a centralized depository of important resources that allows the public discourse over ethanol to be informed by the latest research from academia, government, industry and other sources. Sound science and technical acumen have always been at the heart of the RFA’s efforts to drive expanded production and use of renewable fuels like ethanol, and the studies and reports available on our web site serve as valuable tools to help promote and defend the industry.” The studies and reports are classified by topic into easy-to-navigate sections. Ethanol & the Environment - Lifecycle Energy & Greenhouse Gas Impacts - Land Use Impacts - Human Health & Air Quality - Sustainability - Water Use Renewable Fuel Standard Ethanol & Food/Feed Market Impacts Ethanol & Petroleum Markets Energy Tax Policy Mid-Level Blends, Octane & Fuel Properties Ethanol Co-Products Ethanol & the Economy The RFA research library is available at http://www.ethanolrfa.org/pages/reports-and-studies. 2013-09-05T18:48:38+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/facts-erode-big-oils-narrative/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/facts-erode-big-oils-narrative/ (September 5, 2013) WASHINGTON — As Congress prepares to return to work, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) capsulized developments over the Summer of 2013 that severely undermine Big Oil’s monopoly-protecting narrative. Bob Dinneen, RFA’s President and CEO, commented, “While Congress has been away, much has happened to set the record straight on ethanol. Rising gas prices have made the value proposition of ethanol compelling for consumers. Indeed, drivers turned out in large numbers over the summer to purchase record volumes of low cost, renewable E85. Academics and government officials spoke out on successfully scaling the blend wall. The growing potential for a bin-busting harvest has undermined the food vs. fuel canard, and USDA’s data has proven food inflation is not being driven by ethanol and the RFS. Slowly, but surely, Big Oil’s heavy handed scare tactics are eroding under the weight of honest data and consumer demand.” “By the way, in case you missed it, Summer 2013’s “Best Beach Read” award goes to the API/AFPM for their 2014 RFS waiver request. It has everything, except legal standing, that a fun breezy summer novel should have — futuristic fiction, scary twists and turns, and even a romance with monopolies. In return, RFA penned a compelling and critical review of the API/AFPM tome, laying bare the lack of legal and technical support for a waiver,” concluded Dinneen. To read in full RFA’s review of the American Petroleum Institute (API)/American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) 2014 partial-waiver request, please visit www.EthanolRFA.org.   Big Oil’s Fiction vs. Fact: Fiction: Ethanol and RINs are driving up the price of gasoline. Fact: As Congress returns, the first order of business will be a vote on Syria. While the U.S. imports no oil from Syria, an upset, uncertain Middle East is a reminder of how directly and indirectly vulnerable the U.S. fuel supply is to political events overseas. Since Congress recessed at the beginning of August as the Syrian conflict was beginning to peak, oil prices have risen 5-6 percent. Fact: RINs were a hot topic on Capitol Hill in June and July, but did anyone notice what happened once the congressional hearings ended? RIN prices dropped. RIN prices averaged over $1.10 in July, but have averaged just 75 cents since Congress left town. This chart paints a picture that leaves one wondering if Big Oil wasn’t taking political advantage of an opaque, thinly traded market.     Fiction: Ethanol is using corn meant for food resulting in higher food prices. Fact: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) projects a record-setting corn harvest of over 13 billion bushels in 2013, an increase over last year’s harvest and close to the previous record crop. USDA expects that farmers will achieve a very healthy yield per bushel per acre despite the current heat wave and one of the slowest, wettest planting seasons on record. Fact: In mid-August, the U.S. Department of Agriculture report notes that food prices are rising at a slower rate than expected. In addition, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations’ (FAO) Food Price Index shows less volatility this year than at any time in the past five years even despite the U.S. drought of 2012. The FAO Index continues to trend downward since peaking in February 2011. Fact: Exposing a cheap Big Oil/Big Food PR stunt for what it is was, recent news reports state McDonalds, not ethanol, was to blame for the chicken wing shortage and resulting higher prices.     Fiction: Cellulosic ethanol doesn’t exist and will never be commercialized. Refiners can’t be forced to use products that don’t exist. Fact: In late July, Quad County Corn Processors broke ground on its cellulosic ethanol bolt-on facility, which will process cellulosic corn fiber into high octane ethanol. Quad County’s Adding Cellulosic Ethanol (ACE) project will add 2 million gallons of cellulosic capacity to their existing 35 million gallon plant, while also increasing ethanol yield, expanding oil extraction and creating a more protein-enriched animal feed. Fact: INEOS Bio in Vero Beach, Fla., began producing plant/wood waste cellulosic ethanol at commercial scale. Fact: The Environmental Protection Agency stated in its 2013 Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) announcement that it will use its authority to reduce the 2014 Advanced Biofuel Standard and thus total RFS volume requirements. This action further highlights the agility of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) to adapt to market conditions including the unfortunately slow pace of cellulosic ethanol commercialization. Refiners will not be required to blend fuels that don’t exist.     Fiction: We have hit the blend wall. Refiners just can’t blend more than 10 percent ethanol into gasoline. Fact: The Center for Agriculture and Economic Development at Iowa State University issued a study stating the blend wall could be easily surmounted with the use of more E85. Fact: Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa and Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission in August asking for a review of possible anticompetitive practices by the oil industry to block market access. The bipartisan letter by the Senators follows one earlier this year by Bob Dinneen, RFA’s President and CEO, to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Department of Energy (DoE) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA), requesting a multi-agency investigation into specific examples of Big Oil violating the Sherman Antitrust Act, the Gasohol Competition Act of 1980, and the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act…all that while skirting the intent of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. Fact: The Iowa Department of Revenue reported a 43 percent increase in E85 sales in the second quarter of 2013. Drivers in Iowa clearly demand a low cost, renewable alternative to expensive petroleum. Fact: Despite the repeated cries of wolf about E15 by API, AFPM, and AAA, E15 celebrated its one year anniversary. Approximately 2 million gallons have been sold and over 40 million miles have been driven on E15 and no cases of engine failure or inferior performance have been reported. In fact, Volkswagen recently announced all MY2014 vehicles will be warrantied for E15. Additionally in the past few weeks, new locations in Iowa and Nebraska announced they will begin offering E15. 2013-09-05T13:19:02+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/another-retailer-in-nebraska-to-offer-e15/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/another-retailer-in-nebraska-to-offer-e15/ (August 29, 2013) LINCOLN, Neb. — Frontier Coop will begin offering E15 for 2001 and newer vehicles at four locations beginning September 20. A grand opening promotion will be announced soon. Vehicles that are 2001 and newer account for 75% of the vehicles on the road and those vehicles consume over 85% of the fuel sold in the country. Frontier Coop will offer E15 as a fuel choice for consumers in Weston, Brainard, Ceresco, and Dwight. “E15 seemed like the logical fuel to offer to support our local economies,” said Jeff Ingalls, energy department manager for Frontier Coop. “We want to give consumers fuel choice and what better than to offer a locally homegrown and produced fuel?” All the necessary steps to offer E15 were followed by Frontier Coop including being registered for the fuel survey, adopting the misfueling mitigation plan created by the Renewable Fuels Association, and the pumps will be labeled properly for selling E15. “It is a great feat for the ethanol industry to see E15 sold in multiple states, and we are pleased that Nebraska is expanding the number of locations offering E15 for 2001 and newer vehicles,” said Robert White, director of market development for the Renewable Fuels Association. Due to a lack of a one pound reed vapor pressure waiver for E15, retailers must change their labels in the summer months and offer E15 to flex fuel vehicles only. Beginning September 15 retailers can resume offering E15 to 2001 and newer vehicles. “It has been 30 years since a new fuel has been introduced, and just after a year, E15 is starting to gain traction, and will be sold in nine states starting September 15,” said White.   “It is great to see our rural communities supporting their local corn farmers. There are so many benefits of ethanol fuel and moving to E15 adds to the benefits,” said Don Hutchens, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board. Nebraska is the second largest producer of ethanol in the United States. Ethanol creates jobs, spurs economic development, increases energy independence, and helps Nebraska drivers by lowering the price at the pump. E15 is moving us in the direction of being even more self-sufficient.   Picture Note: Kyle Stein, branch manager in Ceresco, standing next to one of the pumps that Frontier Coop plans to change to E15 beginning September 20. 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 the Nebraska Corn Board The mission of the Nebraska Corn Board is to develop, carry out and participate in programs of research, education, market development and promotion to enhance profitability (viability) and expand the demand and value of Nebraska corn and value-added corn products. The Nebraska Corn Board’s market development, research, promotion and education programs are funded and managed by Nebraska corn farmers. Producers invest at a rate of 1/2 of a cent per bushel of corn sold. Visit www.nebraskacorn.org. 2013-08-29T13:14:41+00:00 http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-letter-urges-epa-to-deny-big-oils-contrived-rfs-waiver-petition/ http://www.ethanolrfa.org/news/entry/rfa-letter-urges-epa-to-deny-big-oils-contrived-rfs-waiver-petition/ (August 28, 2013) WASHINGTON — In a letter sent today to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) urged EPA to reject the petition for a partial waiver of the 2014 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) submitted recently by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM). “Big Oil’s attempt to completely rewrite and redefine the statute pertaining to RFS waivers is just another shameless example of how far they’ll go to protect their market share and block larger volumes of renewable fuel from reaching the consumer,” said Bob Dinneen, RFA’s President and CEO. “Not only do API and AFPM blatantly contort the meaning and intent of the statute, but, as trade associations, they aren’t even entitled to file a petition for a waiver in the first place.” According to RFA’s letter, the petition from API and AFPM obscures the fundamental purpose and intent of the RFS, which is to drive the production and use of renewable fuels beyond their traditional role as fuel additives. “The need to move beyond E10 in 2014 for the purposes of RFS compliance should hardly come as a surprise to obligated parties,” wrote Dinneen, pointing out that it was clear as early as 2009 that the so-called E10 “blend wall” would occur in 2013 or 2014. “Unfortunately, many obligated parties chose to blatantly ignore the strong signals compelling them to begin preparations for higher volumes of renewable fuels and to increase investments in storage and distribution infrastructure. Now, the members of API and AFPM seek relief from their renewable fuel blending obligations, arguing that their failure to prepare for 2014 RFS requirements somehow merits reprieve. EPA should not reward such blatant disregard for resoundingly clear policy signals.” The RFA comments conclude that the combination of increased E85 and E15 sales, carry-over RINs from 2013, and likely administrative adjustments to the 2014 advanced biofuel standard will allow obligated parties to easily meet their RFS requirements without adverse economic consequences. “EPA should act swiftly to reject the petition submitted by API and AFPM. The conditions outlined in the Clean Air Act under which EPA may grant a waiver simply do not exist,” Dinneen concluded. “The RFS is working precisely as intended—EPA is exercising its authority to adjust annual blending requirements, RINs are sending clear signals to the marketplace to expand renewable fuels infrastructure and consumption, and RIN banking and trading provisions are providing compliance flexibility to obligated parties. In short, oil refiners and importers should have no difficulty in meeting their 2014 blending requirements.” The full letter is available here. 2013-08-28T13:32:18+00:00