WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, issued the following statement today in response to an SRE decision from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) about small refinery exemptions (SREs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

“With more than 140 granted refinery exemptions, today’s [SRE] decision alone does not give farmers and biofuel producers the certainty they need,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “It is imperative that EPA reallocates each and every exempt gallon in a forthcoming rule to mitigate the potentially devastating impact on biofuel demand. We appreciate EPA’s commitment to issue a rule that ensures promised homegrown biofuel gallons reach the marketplace and upholds the administration’s commitment to American energy dominance.” 

Learn more about the RFS here.

The post Growth Energy Statement on EPA SRE Decision appeared first on Growth Energy.

Homegrown American ethanol holds down gas prices, strengthens our domestic energy production, brings jobs and prosperity to rural America, and delivers cleaner air.

Here are specific policy priorities that can lead America into a stronger, cleaner, and more prosperous future.

Reduce Fuel Prices with E15

Rebuild the Farm Economy with a Robust Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS)

Drive American Innovation Through Federal Tax Incentives

Win Global Markets with American Ethanol

Unleash American Energy Dominance by Reducing Barriers to Private Investment

The post 2025 Ethanol Policy Roadmap appeared first on Growth Energy.

Fair access to foreign markets and increased incorporation in U.S. international energy engagements will grow American agriculture and give American ethanol producers greater access to global markets. Current trade negotiations could eliminate unfair trade practices and build upon U.S. ethanol’s robust trade surplus.

Resolving tariff and non-tariff trade barriers, including inaccurate carbon intensity scores, will help U.S. exporters satisfy growing ethanol demand across the globe.

The post Win Global Markets with American Ethanol appeared first on Growth Energy.

In 1990, Congress specified that fuel with 10% ethanol (E10) could be sold year-round to encourage the use of ethanol-blended fuels, which save consumers money and burn cleaner than fuels without ethanol. However, the waiver Congress granted for E10 predated the introduction of higher ethanol blends like E15. E15 has an even lower Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) than E10, meaning it has lower evaporative emissions than standard E10 fuel. This means that despite having lower emissions than E10, E15 cannot be sold in most states during the summer months, except temporarily through emergency waivers.

As a result of emergency waivers and other EPA regulatory action from 2019-2025, consumers saved 10-30 cents per gallon by choosing E15, with some locations offering E15 for over $1 per gallon less than E10.

Passing legislation to allow E15 to be sold year-round would increase availability and save consumers money. If we made E15 the standard fuel in the U.S., we could save $20 billion+ in fuel costs each year.

The post Ensuring Year-Round Sales of E15 appeared first on Growth Energy.

The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit provides a tax credit for low emissions fuels that have a carbon intensity (CI) score below a baseline level (50 kgCO2e/MMBTU). This incentive is critical to ensure we maintain our dominant position as the world’s top biofuel producer, provide new income opportunities for growers in an ailing farm economy, and ensure U.S. leadership in liquid fuels for light-duty vehicles, heavy-duty trucks, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and marine vessels.

This pro-growth tax policy will unlock billions of dollars in new investments in U.S. clean energy innovation.

The post Drive American Innovation Through Federal Tax Incentives appeared first on Growth Energy.

E15 is a gasoline blend that contains more than 10% and up to 15% ethanol.

It saves consumers money, burns cleaner than regular fuel, drives farm income, and can be used in 96% of all light-duty vehicles on the road today.

As a result of the temporary waivers issued in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 many consumers choosing E15 experienced average cost savings between 10 and 30 cents per gallon during the summer driving season, with some locations offering over $1 off per gallon when compared to E10.

Making E15 available year-round — and making it the standard fuel nationwide — could:
• SAVE more than $20 BILLION in annual fuel costs.
• PUT $36.3 BILLION in additional income into American households.
• SUPPORT 188,000 new U.S. jobs.
• GENERATE $66.3 BILLION in U.S. GDP.
• INCREASE corn demand by about 2.3 BILLION BUSHELS per year.

The post Lower Fuel Costs with E15 appeared first on Growth Energy.

For 20 years, the RFS has been a bedrock policy that supports hundreds of thousands of American jobs, provides more affordable fuel options at the pump for American drivers, enhances American energy and national security, and reduces emissions.

However, EPA still has to address almost 200 pending small refinery exemption (SRE) requests. Congress intended for SREs to be granted sparingly, as a temporary measure, and only when a refiner demonstrates “disproportionate economic hardship” in complying with the RFS. EPA should treat SREs as extraordinary measures that require a high standard of proof, consistent with the law. EPA should forecast any potential 2026 and 2027 exemptions as part of the final RVO to ensure we blend the full volume of required renewable fuel each year, as the Trump Administration did in 2020. A robust RVO, as currently proposed, supports rural economic growth, energy security and lowers fuel costs for all drivers.

The post Rebuild the Farm Economy with a Robust RFS appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—In comments submitted today, Growth Energy—the nation’s largest biofuel trade association—commended the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) for initiating its Section 301 investigation into Brazil for its unfair trade practices and called on the agency to take bold action on behalf of American ethanol producers who are placed at a competitive disadvantage bilaterally and globally due to the country’s discriminatory practices. 

“We appreciate the opportunity to provide input on ethanol market access challenges considering Brazil’s years-long effort to seek preferential treatment for their ethanol in the United States while limiting U.S. market access into Brazil through tariff and non-tariff measures,” said Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley in the comments. “We further appreciate the opportunity to highlight the unfair actions by Brazil, bilaterally and within international organizations, to artificially improve the standing of their ethanol vis-à-vis U.S. corn ethanol despite our historic price benefit and low-risk sustainable practices.” 

Brazil’s discriminatory policies against imported ethanol prevent American producers from participating in the country’s low carbon fuel policy (RenovaBio), and those rules have contributed to a bilateral U.S. ethanol trade deficit, which hit $150 million last year.  

Bliley’s comments also delved into the history of the U.S.-Brazil ethanol trade relationship, noting that more than a decade ago, Brazil voiced its support for free trade between the two markets and actually removed a tariff on American ethanol in April 2010.  

After securing similarly open treatment in the U.S., however, “Brazil executed a ‘bait and switch’ against U.S. ethanol: it actively sought U.S. removal of its ‘other duty and charge’ (ODC) by referencing their own tariff removal, and then—when that took place—they reinstated their tariff,” Bliley said. “Brazil took these actions to meet their own goals and serve the interests of their ethanol and agricultural industries. Brazil’s actions actively discriminate against U.S. ethanol, have demonstrably burdened U.S. ethanol, and have imposed economic barriers that restrict U.S. ethanol exports to Brazil.” As an example, Bliley noted that U.S. ethanol exports to Brazil were valued at just $53 million in 2024, a 95% decrease from their $1.1 billion peak in 2011. 

Growth Energy also highlighted the questionable sustainability practices that Brazil is seeking to enshrine in international lifecycle modeling, while ignoring the environmental benefits of American corn ethanol. 

The full comment can be found here. 

The post Growth Energy Calls on USTR to Take Action against Brazil’s Unfair Trade Practices appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, called on Congress again today to pass a bill that would allow for the year-round sale of E15, a fuel blend made with 15% American-made ethanol that burns cleaner, costs less, and can be used in 96% of cars on the road today. The call came in response to the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which showed that the 2025-2026 corn crop would set a new record of 16.7 billion bushels, with record yields projected for corn at 188.8 bushels per acre.

“The latest WASDE report showing a record corn crop proves that we need year-round E15 right now,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “E15 is a powerful economic engine that creates jobs, drives farm income, and saves consumers money. It does all this because it provides a market for the nation’s corn, which producers buy and process into ethanol before it’s blended into E15. The more restrictions we can remove on this more affordable fuel option, the more accessible it’ll be for consumers and the more farmers will be able to rely on this market to sell their corn surplus. Congress must act now to allow the year-round sale of E15 and simplify labeling requirements to make it easier for retailers to offer this fuel choice.”

The post Growth Energy: Latest WASDE Report Demonstrates the Need for Year-Round E15 appeared first on Growth Energy.

Your guide for advocating for year-round E15

This toolkit is intended to serve as a member resource — whether you’re looking for tactics or language to use during plant tours, local town halls, stakeholder meetings, or media engagements — this document contains everything you need to effectively advocate for permanent, year-round access to E15 in all states. It includes talking points, sample social media content, and background information, to help ensure a consistent and compelling message across all outreach efforts.

The post E15 Advocacy Engagement Toolkit appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Growth Energy—the leading voice of America’s biofuel industry—is commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), which opened fuel markets to competition from homegrown biofuels produced from U.S. farm crops. Joining Growth Energy in celebration of the August 8th birthday are leaders from across the heartland, who have helped to make the RFS America’s single most successful policy for increasing U.S. energy security, holding down fuel costs, reducing emissions, and strengthening the farm economy.

Since the RFS became law in August 2005, American biorefineries have produced more than 250 billion gallons of ethanol. In that same time period, American ethanol plants have purchased 92.7 billion bushels of corn, driving more than $425 billion of revenue to American farmers. As a result of these benefits, the program is supported by a broad, bipartisan spectrum of stakeholders.

Growth Energy

“The RFS is the foundation of America’s bioeconomy,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “It supports hundreds of thousands of rural jobs and has shielded an entire generation of drivers from volatility in global oil markets. More than 10 percent of U.S. fuel supplies now come from renewable sources like ethanol, representing billions of gallons in savings. And it’s still fueling growth. As part of a drive toward U.S. energy dominance, the U.S. EPA recently proposed to set biofuel blending at the highest volume in the history of the program. Those numbers aren’t yet final, and the EPA still needs to address petitions from refiners seeking to skirt the RFS, but if we remain on a growth trajectory, the benefits to American motorists and farmers are overwhelming.”

Farmers

“The RFS is more than a law. It’s a vital outlet for surplus grains that provides stability and prosperity to American farmers facing higher input costs and uncertain export markets,” said Bill Couser, a farmer from Iowa who grows commercial corn that he sells to local plants to be processed into fuel ethanol. “I don’t know that our family’s farm would be as strong as it is today if it weren’t for the RFS and the American biofuels industry.”

“Since the RFS was enacted, America’s net farm income has more than doubled. In Iowa alone, biofuel plants purchase more than half the state’s corn crop — transforming it into homegrown fuels, high-quality animal feed, food-grade CO2, and a host of other co-products,” said Kelly Nieuwenhuis, a third-generation corn and soybean farmer based in northwest Iowa. “It’s an integral part of the agricultural supply chain.”

Lawmakers

“For two decades, the Renewable Fuel Standard program has helped us produce fuel that reduces our emissions and fosters energy independence—and I’m proud to help continue leading the push in the Senate to increase the use and supply of American-grown, American-made biofuels across the country,” said Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.). “We’re pushing hard for our bipartisan bill to enable the year-round sale of E15 nationwide, and as founding co-chair of the Sustainable Aviation Caucus in the Senate, I’m working to bolster and help expand our nation’s sustainable aviation fuel industry. Investing in American biofuels doesn’t just help us reduce our nation’s carbon footprint—it helps lower gas prices for middle-class families and support our farmers. It’s a win-win-win that would not be possible without the RFS.” 

“Over the last 20 years, the Renewable Fuel Standard has been essential to empowering heartland communities, adding value to crops grown by our hardworking farmers, securing American energy independence, and giving consumers a cleaner, cheaper choice at the pump,” said Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). “Iowa farmers already feed our nation, and by guaranteeing homegrown Iowa biofuels are blended into our nation’s fuel supply, the RFS secures their role in fueling our nation’s future. I look forward to continuing my work with the Trump administration to ensure the RFS stays strong, so we can keep delivering for Iowa’s famers, biofuel producers, and rural communities.”

“Nebraska is the nation’s second-largest producer of ethanol, and much of that is made possible by the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), established 20 years ago,” said Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.). “The RFS has played a critical role in supporting Nebraska’s ag economy, driving both the use and production of renewable fuels across the state. I look forward to continuing to work with the EPA to ensure a strong RFS that will further advance Nebraska’s biofuels industry.”

“The Renewable Fuel Standard is one of the federal government’s most successful clean fuels policies,” said Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.). “For two decades, renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel have saved consumers money, supported Nebraska agriculture, cleaned our environment, and unleashed American energy.”

“For two decades, the Renewable Fuel Standard has been a cornerstone of American energy independence and agricultural prosperity. As the nation’s second-largest ethanol producer, Nebraska demonstrates how the RFS program strengthens our rural economies while advancing environmental sustainability through reduced emissions and cleaner fuel alternatives,” said Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.). “RFS continues to prove that American farmers and biofuel producers are essential partners in securing our energy future and meeting our nation’s climate goals.”

“For 20 years, the Renewable Fuel Standard has created incredible new opportunities for our farmers. I’ve seen firsthand the important markets it creates for our corn and soybean growers, and the cost savings it brings for folks at the pump,” said Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.). “As we celebrate this important anniversary, I remain committed to championing renewable fuels every single day and pushing for policies like nationwide, year-round E15.”

“A strong Renewable Fuel Standard is vital to a vibrant agricultural economy and the success of Iowa biofuels,” said Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa). “For twenty years, this American energy initiative has supported Iowa farmers, biofuels producers, and our rural communities by ensuring that Iowa ethanol, biodiesel, and other advanced biofuels are blended into our nation’s fuel supply. The RFS also helps reduce our dependence on foreign oil, lowers gas prices for families, and incentivizes rural energy production. Representing hardworking farmers and biofuels producers, I will always advocate for a strong Renewable Fuel Standard that invests in rural Iowa, supports the production of homegrown Iowa biofuels, and stands with our farmers and agricultural communities.”

“For two decades, the Renewable Fuel Standard has provided long-term market certainty and predictability for American biofuels producers, fuel retailers, farmers, and other market participants,” said Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa). “It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come in blending more homegrown biofuels into our nation’s fuel supply—and how the RFS supports Iowa farmers and rural communities. Biofuels play a crucial role in our energy strategy to bolster energy independence and lower costs for consumers. I look forward to continuing my work with the Trump Administration and my colleagues in Congress to expand the use of biofuels as part of an all-of-the-above and all-of-the-below energy strategy.”

“I’m proud to support access to new markets for our nation’s farmers that strengthens our domestic energy resources,” said Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio). “Investing in American biofuels strengthens our energy supply, creates good-paying jobs, and drives economic growth in communities that feed and fuel our nation. By advancing biofuel innovation we’re building a more secure, independent, and prosperous future for the American people. As we mark 20 years of the Renewable Fuel Standard, we recognize one of the most impactful commitments our nation has made to energy security and rural prosperity.” 

“For 20 years, the Renewable Fuel Standard has been a cornerstone of our nation’s energy policy—strengthening rural economies, reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and creating new markets for our family farmers,” said Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.). “In Illinois and across the Midwest, biofuels mean good-paying jobs, cleaner air, and opportunity. As we look ahead, we must ensure the RFS translates to affordable low-carbon options for consumers while supporting industry growth domestically. I’ll continue fighting to make sure biofuels remain a key part of America’s energy future.”

To learn more about rural America’s priorities under the RFS, click here.

The post Growth Energy Celebrates the RFS on its 20th Anniversary appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, will submit formal comments later today in support of the Trump administration’s proposal to expand U.S. biofuel production. The comments, responding to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2026-2027 plan for biofuel blending obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), call on the agency to swiftly finalize strong volumes while protecting against small refinery exemptions (SREs) that could undercut anticipated benefits to drivers, farmers, and rural communities

“The Trump administration has laid out an ambitious course that will unlock new investment, increase U.S. energy production, and provide reliable markets for our farmers,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We urge EPA to stand strong on the president’s vision and swiftly finalize the proposed volumes. At the same time, we recognize that a minority of refiners continue to demand special exemptions that would destroy the very demand this proposal is intended to deliver. The EPA has indicated that they intend to fully account for any lost gallons from 2026 and 2027 exemptions. Maintaining that approach will send a clear signal that producers and farmers can count on this EPA to ensure the promised volumes actually reach the marketplace.” 

As part of their written submission, Growth Energy will also call on EPA to: 

• Continue to grow the RFS to help drive further investment in higher ethanol blends such as E15 and E85. 
• Minimize refinery exemptions to those small refineries that can fully demonstrate disproportionate economic hardship. 
• Finalize the proposal on E15 labeling and infrastructure. 
• Finalize the proposal to incentivize homegrown fuels and feedstocks including those throughout North America.
• Approve pending pathways and registrations to help grow opportunities for cellulosic biofuels from corn and sorghum kernel fiber, aviation fuel, and carbon capture. 

“While EPA finalizes this important rule, Congress also has important work to do on E15,” added Skor. “It’s time to lift the needless regulations standing between U.S. consumers and lower-cost E15, so all Americans can make their own fuel and vehicle choices. Year-round E15 is a critical part of President Trump’s push to unleash competition at the pump and hold down American fuels costs.”

To receive a copy of Growth Energy’s full comments on EPA’s proposed biofuel volumes, email Growth Energy Director of Communications and Media Relations Jake Barron here.

The post Growth Energy Rallies Behind EPA’s Biofuel Volumes appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, welcomed the introduction today of the Ethanol for America Act—a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would simplify labeling and infrastructure requirements for fuel retailers seeking to offer E15, a fuel blend made with 15% American ethanol that saves consumers money and can be used in more than 96% of vehicles on the road today.  

“Consumer demand for E15 grows each year, but onerous labeling and underground tank requirements have prevented many retailers from expanding access to better options at the pump,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We applaud Senators Ernst and Klobuchar and Reps. Smith and Budzinski for spearheading the push to complete the work that EPA started during President Trump’s first term and eliminate needless barriers standing between U.S. consumers and lower-cost E15. This important effort will put more homegrown energy into the marketplace, reduce prices at the pump, and open critical new markets for U.S. farmers and biofuel producers.” 

The Ethanol for America Act would require the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to finalize proposed rulemaking from 2021 that would allow existing fuel infrastructure to be used with E15, instead of just regular E10. The bill would also require fuel retailers to use a simplified E15 label on their pumps and allow them to demonstrate partial component compatibility without having to upgrade entire systems, among other provisions. 

The post Ethanol for America Act Would Make It Easier for Retailers to Offer E15  appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, welcomed news that the Senate had approved the nomination of Luke Lindberg as the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Our industry is confident that Lindberg will be a strong voice to speak on behalf of American farmers and ethanol producers on the global stage,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “His experience at South Dakota Trade and at the Export-Import Bank make him uniquely qualified to take bold action on behalf of our industry and our farm partners, and we commend the Senate for taking quick action on his nomination. We look forward to working with Lindberg and other leaders at USDA to make sure American farmers and rural communities benefit from the Administration’s efforts to balance our trade relationships.”

The post Growth Energy Statement on Confirmation of Luke Lindberg as USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, welcomed news of yet another trade deal recently announced by President Trump and the White House, this time between the U.S. and the European Union. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins the deal includes an agreement for the EU to purchase $750 billion in U.S. energy, including American-made ethanol. 

“This is yet another example of this Administration’s commitment to American energy dominance, and we applaud President Trump, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer for putting rural America first in their trade negotiations,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “This latest trade deal with the EU will deliver concrete benefits to the American ethanol industry and to the rural communities it supports. It has the potential to unleash a new era of transatlantic trade partnerships and to enhance what’s already one of the ethanol industry’s strongest trade relationships. We look forward to learning more details about how this agreement addresses the tariff and non-tariff trade barriers that will allow the U.S. ethanol industry to build on the $420 million we exported to the EU in 2024.” 

The post Growth Energy Welcomes New Trade Agreement with EU appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, issued the following statement on the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Aaron Szabo as Assistant Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of Air and Radiation:  

“We congratulate Assistant Administrator Szabo on his confirmation. We look forward to working with him to build on EPA’s momentum in delivering a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and expanding access to lower-cost fuels like E15,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.  

“Szabo brings more than a decade of public service and regulatory experience to this important role. His leadership will be essential to ensuring homegrown, American biofuels continue to play a central role in improving our nation’s environment while growing the bioeconomy. We are committed to continuing to partner with EPA to secure year-round E15 nationwide, drive investment in rural communities, and promote U.S. energy dominance.”  

The post Growth Energy Congratulates New EPA Air Chief appeared first on Growth Energy.

WASHINGTON D.C. – Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded the White House and President Trump today following the announcement of two major trade deals that would open new markets for American biofuels and other agricultural co-products. The trade deal with Indonesia is expected to eliminate up to 99 percent of the tariff barriers on U.S. goods – including the 30 percent tariff currently imposed on U.S. ethanol exports. As part of the deal with Japan, the White House secured a commitment to purchase $8 billion in U.S. agricultural goods, including corn, soybeans, ethanol, and sustainable aviation fuel. 

“Ethanol exports set a record in 2024, and President Trump’s latest deals will help to ensure that American farmers and biofuel producers continue to benefit from new and growing markets in Asia,” said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. “We commend President Trump for following through on his commitment to unleash American energy dominance and tear down unfair barriers to exports from rural America. We also thank the teams at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and the U.S. Department of Agriculture for their tireless work to deliver these trade deals and removing trade barriers for U.S. ethanol.” 

Learn more about last year’s record-setting American ethanol export figures here.  

The post Growth Energy Cheers Trade Deals with Indonesia & Japan appeared first on Growth Energy.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide stakeholder comments on the further development of the greenhouse gas reduction quota as part of Germany’s efforts to implement the recent changes to the European Union (EU)’s Renewable Energy Directive (RED) through the Ministerial Draft of Second Act for the Further Development of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Quota (Entwurf eines zweiten Gesetzes zur Weiterentwicklung der Treibhausgasminderungs) dated 19 June 2025.

Growth Energy is the leading voice of America’s biofuel industry. Our members operate and support biomanufacturing facilities at the heart of America’s bioeconomy, delivering a new generation of clean fuel options. Growth Energy is the largest association of bioethanol producers in the United States, representing 97 U.S. plants that each year produce 9.5 billion gallons of low-carbon, renewable fuel; 130 businesses associated with the production process; and tens of thousands of bioethanol supporters around the country. Growth Energy represents the leading exporters in the bioethanol industry, helping to support nearly two billion gallons of ethanol exports to over 60 countries around the world.

Bioethanol plays a significant role in sustainably meeting the greenhouse gas reduction goals and use of renewable energy in RED. Biofuels decrease the use of fossil fuels and other harmful fuel additives without sacrificing food and protein requirements. Biofuels provide food and feed supply through their coproducts. Simultaneously, the use of biofuels reduces greenhouse gas emissions in transportation, enabling compliance with current mandates and reduction requirements while being fully compatible with the current vehicle fleet.

Specific Comments on “Entwurf eines zweiten Gesetzes zur Weiterentwicklung der Treibhausgasminderungs”

Article 3 of the proposed draft bill, change item 7 (reference to paragraph 13(1) of the Federal Immission Control Act/BImCchG) proposes a decrease in the maximum share of food and feed crops that can be used to meet bioenergy commitments. This proposal would decrease the already low amount of 4.4 percent to 3 percent in calendar year 2030.

We respectfully urge the German Ministerial authorities to reconsider this decrease and keep, as a minimum, the existing caps in place. Maintaining at least the 4.4 percent cap already adopted would better position Germany to achieve the greenhouse gas emissions reduction requirements set forth in RED. Recognizing the proven climate and sustainability benefits of food and feed based biofuels supports not only the transportation sector, but also other strategic areas such as energy security, economic competitiveness, rural development, and the bioeconomy.

While we recognize the interest in and concern for biofuels policies leading to land use changes served as the justification for this decrease, in the United States this has been widely discussed, investigated and debated and we have confirmed that increased biofuels production has not resulted in cropland expansion nor deforestation. Instead, U.S. bioethanol production from food and feed crops has increased in productivity and sustainable agricultural practices and hefty investment in technology developments have enabled higher output from the current existing land.

Considering the above, our recommendation and request is for Germany to maintain the existing provisions of paragraph 13(1) and refrain from introducing stricter limits and caps on food and feed crops for biofuels use as that would undermine and discard one of the most reliable and proven feedstocks that are currently available for adoption towards greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. Alternatively, Germany could exempt U.S. bioethanol from any cap reduction in food and feed crops, as well as any other origins where there is no risk of deforestation.

The U.S. Scenario

The sustainable production and use of value-added agricultural commodities in the United States have supported farmers, revitalized rural communities, created jobs, increased local tax revenue, and generated economic savings for consumers. The establishment of ethanol biorefineries has created a steady and dependable market for grains. This has brought a new generation to farming and rejuvenated communities. Jobs and prospects offered by bioethanol facilities have strengthened agricultural economies, providing many positive influences on rural life.

In the United States, the significant growth of bioethanol production has not resulted in increased cropland area. Simultaneously, inputs into agricultural production have decreased, yields have increased, and efficiencies have been gained during the bioethanol production process that have enabled producers to get more bioethanol from each bushel of corn. Fuel is just one of the many things U.S. biorefineries produce that drives economic activity in rural communities.

The U.S. bioethanol industry continues to innovate and improve its processes to be even more sustainable and productive. Corn bioethanol only requires starch from the kernel, not the protein, fat, fiber, or other micronutrients. Because of this, bioprocessing facilities are able to transform crops and crop byproducts used to produce bioethanol into other in-demand coproducts such as corn oil, high-protein animal feed, food-grade CO2, biopolymers, and other innovative, items that form a part of the bioeconomy.

Without corn bioethanol, the high-protein animal feed in the form of distillers grains would not be produced in the United States. This would result in continued demand for that corn but as a less nutrient-dense feed source compared to distillers grain where the starch has been removed.

Additionally, this would remove the added benefits of bioethanol and other coproducts that have formed an important part of fueling and feeding the U.S. economy in a sustainable way. These coproducts play a vital role in the livestock and food processing sectors, indirectly contributing to the human food supply chain. Rather than diverting food resources, bioethanol production enhances agricultural efficiency by producing fuel and feed from the same crop input. During the U.S. ethanol production process, biogenic carbon is captured for use in food processing, including for use in carbonated beverages. When bioethanol production dropped during the height of COVID in the United States, the food industry experienced significant difficulties in sourcing the food-grade CO2 necessary for their food production.

Blanket restrictions or sought-after prohibitions on biofuels made from food and feed crops lack a precise understanding of our industry. This is a barrier to the circular, regenerative, and competitive bioeconomy that the EU and Germany seek to build through the implementation of RED and other similar policies. That is why we believe it’s necessary to have these discussions about removing the effective prohibition on food and feed crops in aviation and maritime, as well as addressing arbitrary caps for on-road use.

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss these production innovations and the circular/regenerative realities of the U.S. ethanol industry during future engagements. Such collaboration, we hope, will provide scientific reasoning for why the use of U.S. bioethanol from food and feed crops does not risk the environmentally harmful effects noted in the justification for the proposed reductions.

Thank you for your consideration of these comments as you seek to finalize your implementing acts for RED.

The post Growth Energy Comments to Germany on Proposed Crop Cap Reduction appeared first on Growth Energy.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments as part of this independent review of CleanBC’s policies and programs.

Growth Energy is the leading voice of America’s biofuel industry. Our members operate and support biomanufacturing facilities at the heart of America’s bioeconomy, delivering a new generation of clean fuel options. Growth Energy is the largest association of ethanol producers in the United States, representing 97 U.S. plants that each year produce 9.5 billion gallons of low-carbon, renewable fuel; 130 businesses associated with the production process; and tens of thousands of ethanol supporters around the country. Growth Energy represents the leading exporters in the ethanol industry, helping to support nearly two billion gallons of ethanol exports to over 60 countries around the world. Further, we have a strong history of positive collaboration with the Canadian biofuels industry and promoting our shared North American agricultural goals.

British Columbia (BC) has been a global leader in its efforts to implement the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) and achieve a 30 percent reduction in fuel carbon intensity by 2030, relative to 2010 levels. This program has been successful in driving innovation in the production of low emissions biofuels. However, we have concerns that a forthcoming change related to domestic content requirements may undermine this policy—specifically, that the LCFS’ ability to meet its 5 percent renewable fuels requirement and emissions reductions in gasoline will be jeopardized.

In February 2025, BC’s Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions issued Ministerial Order No. M41. This order notes that effective January 1, 2026, the minimum five percent renewable fuel requirement for gasoline must be met with eligible renewable fuels (i.e. ethanol) produced in Canada.

BC’s low carbon fuel policy provides substantial economic incentives for ethanol producers who supply the required low carbon ethanol into the program. As a result, ethanol facilities, including those in the United States, have made significant financial investments in technologies to lower their carbon intensity level, such as deploying carbon capture utilization and storage technologies, to participate in the LCFS. Ministerial Order No. M41 puts those investments at risk and greatly diminishes the probability of future investments due to lack of financial certainty in the LCFS.

This order was seemingly implemented to address potential concerns in the Canadian biomass-based diesel (BBD) industry resulting from changes in U.S. tax policy for clean fuel production. It is important to note that the ethanol market in both the U.S. and Canada operates very differently in terms of production, feedstock, supply chain, end use, and competition. The BC LCFS and U.S. Clean Fuel Production Credit are both intended to drive reductions in carbon intensity. Rather than restrict U.S. ethanol with domestic content requirements, we urge you to consider additional ways to further incentivize Canadian biofuels. Restrictions such as these could result in higher regulatory compliance costs to BC’s obligated parties and ultimately higher fuel prices for BC consumers.

For these reasons, and others, we respectfully ask that you recommend the reversal of Ministerial Order No. M41, thereby removing the domestic production requirement for eligible renewable fuels in gasoline.

Thank you for your consideration of these comments as part of your review on CleanBC’s policies and programs. Canada, including BC, has been a significant partner and friend to the U.S. ethanol industry. We look forward to discussing how U.S. ethanol, an economically viable and available low-carbon product, can help support BC’s low carbon fuel goals.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.–Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, commended the Trump Administration for nominating Julie Callahan to be the U.S. Trade Representative’s (USTR’s) next chief agricultural negotiator. 

“The Trump Administration is aiming to rebalance our trade relationships to support American energy dominance and rural economic growth. This effort requires a strong ag negotiator, and Julie Callahan is the perfect fit, given her experience at USTR and her understanding of our industry’s trade goals,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We congratulate her and urge the Senate to approve her nomination right away. We look forward to working with her to build new markets for American farmers and create new opportunities for American ethanol producers.” 

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