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.

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.”

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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.”  

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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.  

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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.

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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 leading biofuel trade association, hailed final passage of the President’s ‘Big Beautiful’ budget reconciliation bill, which includes a 45Z extension to support ethanol and clean fuel production.

“The president wants to go big on American energy dominance, and this legislation delivers,” said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. “An extension of 45Z will unlock billions of dollars in new investments across rural America supporting strong, stable markets for America’s farmers and positioning American biofuel producers to compete in global fuel markets. We applaud our champions in the House and Senate, who fought hard to ensure that U.S. biofuel producers are positioned to deliver more clean energy, hold down fuel costs, and restore industrial might across the heartland.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) released the following statement after the Supreme Court issued its opinion that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit is the proper venue for legal challenges to small refinery exemption (SRE) decisions:

“Today’s decision is a victory for the American biofuels industry and for the rural communities that depend on a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The Court agreed with our argument that the D.C. Circuit is the only appropriate venue for litigation on EPA’s SRE decisions. Because the RFS is a national program and SREs have nationwide impacts, any challenges to SRE decisions belong squarely in the D.C. Circuit. Allowing 12 different Circuit Courts to adjudicate SREs would result in a fractured and inconsistent body of law, causing chaos and confusion in the marketplace. The court’s opinion today gives farmers and ethanol producers much greater certainty about SRE litigation under the RFS, which continues to be one of the nation’s most successful clean energy programs.” 

Background 

In March, RFA and Growth Energy presented oral arguments to the Supreme Court on this case, jointly petitioning on EPA’s behalf and urging the court to reject the argument by refineries that would allow them to “forum shop” for more favorable venues to challenge recent SRE denials despite clear direction from Congress that those decisions should be adjudicated in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. 

The Supreme Court granted certiorari from an outlier ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, which held that challenges to the SRE denials at issue were properly brought before it. Numerous other circuit courts had disagreed, finding instead that the D.C. Circuit is the proper venue for these SRE challenges and creating the “circuit split” on venue that the Supreme Court is resolving here. 

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s leading biofuel trade association praised Governor Kim Reynolds (R-Iowa) for her veto of legislation imposing onerous new regulations on carbon capture investments. The bill, House File 639, would make it nearly impossible to build new carbon storage and transport infrastructure in Iowa, ultimately denying ethanol producers and their farm partners access to new energy markets.  

“We’re deeply grateful to Governor Reynolds for having the conviction to stand up for rural jobs and preserve opportunities for future generations of Iowa farmers,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Carbon capture allows farmers and producers to accelerate investment in U.S. energy innovation and tap into growing markets around the world. These projects add value to every bushel of corn and provide a vital lifeline to our farmers in uncertain times. We look forward to working with our elected leaders to find a balanced policy solution that allows our industry to remain competitive and protects the billions of additional dollars these projects could deliver for farmers in Iowa and across the heartland.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C.— American drivers could collectively save more than $110 million this Memorial Day weekend if they filled up with E15—a more affordable fuel option made with 15% ethanol—instead of ordinary fuel.

That’s according to a new estimate from Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association. Based on AAA’s projected travel data for 2025, Growth Energy’s analysis showed how much money consumers could potentially save over the Memorial Day holiday by selecting E15—also sold as Unleaded 88.

“Once again, E15 is set to provide major savings at the pump for Memorial Day travelers,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “With nearly 40 million Americans planning to hit the road this weekend, access to lower-cost E15 will make a real difference for hardworking families. Every additional gallon of ethanol that reaches consumers means more American-made energy in the marketplace, lower fuel costs, and a much-needed boost to the farm economy.”

The sale of E15 is restricted over the summer due to outdated federal regulations that were enacted long before this fuel option entered the marketplace. However, this cleaner, more-affordable fuel choice remains available this summer thanks to a temporary waiver issued by the Trump administration as part of an effort to support American energy dominance, increase homegrown fuel supplies, and hold down prices at the pump.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved the use of E15 in all cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) made in model year 2001 and newer—representing 98% of all vehicle miles traveled this Memorial Day. Unleaded 88/E15 can be found at more than 4,200 gas stations in 33 states. Last summer, with access to E15, drivers saved 10 to 30 cents per gallon by filling up with this fuel option compared to regular, or E10. In some areas, E15 saved drivers as much as a dollar per gallon at the pump.

Travelers can plan their road trip and locate gas stations selling Unleaded 88 and other higher ethanol blends using the Get Biofuel Fuel Finder.

Background

E15—also sold as Unleaded 88—is a fuel blend made with 15% American-made ethanol. It has a lower emissions profile and costs less than E10, the standard fuel in the U.S., made with 10% ethanol. Research shows that if the country were to make E15 its standard fuel, it would:

• Reduce consumer spending on motor fuel by $20.6 billion annually and save the average American household $168 on motor fuel costs.
• Generate $66.3 billion of value-added output (GDP) to the U.S. economy.
• Support nearly 555,000 jobs in all sectors of the economy, including 188,417 new jobs attributable to E15 replacing E10.
• Put an additional $36.3 billion in income into the pockets of American households.
• Generate an additional $7 billion in tax revenue for the Federal Treasury and $6 billion for State and local governments.

Learn more here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s leading biofuel trade association, welcomed reports that the proposal released today by the House Ways and Means Committee included an extension of the 45Z clean fuel production tax credit, an incentive that would spur innovation in American biofuels and unlock billions in new investments across rural America. 

“Pro-growth tax policy can unlock billions of dollars in new investments towards U.S. energy dominance while supporting stronger markets for America’s farmers. The 45Z tax credit is a critical piece of this puzzle, and we’re glad to see that lawmakers on the House Ways and Means Committee recognize its importance,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “By including it in the reconciliation bill, this proposal would give biofuels producers a longer runway to innovate and to make investments in creating new markets for farmers. We’re grateful to the Committee, and to our champions on Capitol Hill who have worked hard to ensure that rural priorities like 45Z are included in any final tax bill. As Congress completes its work on the President’s agenda, we urge our champions to remain focused on ensuring that U.S. farmers and biofuel producers have the certainty they need to invest in long-term growth.”

The 45Z clean fuel production tax credit is intended to incentivize the production of low-carbon fuels in transportation on the ground and in the air. If implemented properly, Growth Energy’s own research demonstrates that the credit would add $21.2 billion to the U.S. economy, generate nearly $13.4 billion in household income, support more than 192,000 jobs across all sectors of the national economy, and provide farmers with a 10 percent premium price on low carbon corn used at a bioethanol plant.  

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, applauded the Trump administration’s decision to grant a summer waiver allowing uninterrupted sales of lower-cost E15, a fuel blend made with 15% ethanol that can be used in 96% of cars on the road today. Action on a nationwide waiver fulfills a key element of President Trump’s executive order directing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to “consider issuing emergency fuel waivers to allow the year-round sale of E15 gasoline to meet any projected temporary shortfalls in the supply of gasoline across the Nation.”  

“We’re grateful to President Trump and EPA Administrator Zeldin for moving quickly to lift a needless barrier standing between the American people and lower-cost E15,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “This outcome is also thanks to USDA Secretary Rollins’ support for year-round E15 and homegrown fuels, and the governors, senators, and representatives in both parties whose advocacy for American drivers and farmers helped make this happen.” 

“EPA’s decision is a step toward greater American energy dominance. This will put more American fuel in the marketplace, allow Americans to spend less of their hard earned money at the pump this summer, give fuel retailers the clarity and certainty they need and protect a critical market for American farmers,” Skor continued. “With a temporary waiver in place, our bipartisan champions in Congress and the White House can focus on passing permanent legislation that provides unrestricted access to E15 – all months, all states, all stations, and all fuel dispensers.” 

About E15  

E15 is a fuel blend made of gasoline and 15% bioethanol. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved its use in all cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) made in model year 2001 and newer—representing more than 96% of all vehicles on the road today. E15 can be found at over 4,100 gas stations in 33 states and is legal for sale in every state except California. Last summer, with access to E15, drivers saved 10 to 30 cents per gallon by filling up with this fuel option compared to regular, or E10. In some areas, E15 saved drivers as much as a dollar per gallon at the pump.  

Nationwide access to E15 would save consumers $20.6 billion in annual fuel costs, put an additional $36.3 billion in income into the pockets of American families, and generate $66.3 billion for the U.S. GDP. Learn more about E15 and the emergency waiver here.  

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SACRAMENTO, CALIF. — Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, celebrated new annual data from the California Air Resources Board that showed strong, sustained statewide demand for E85 in 2024. With 114.7 million gallons of E85 sold in 2024, California has now logged two straight years above 110 million gallons — a mark that had never been achieved prior to 2023. 

“Clearly, the state’s record E85 sales in 2023 weren’t a one-time exception, but the new normal,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “When California drivers get the opportunity to save money at the pump and cut carbon emissions at the same time, they seize it.” 

“This success with E85 further proves it is time for California to embrace E15,” Skor continued. “As Governor Newsom himself stated last fall, E15 is another biofuel blend with ‘massive potential’ for simultaneously ‘lowering gas prices’ and ‘keeping our air clean.’ Californians deserve access to clean, affordable E15 — which their fellow Americans in every other state already enjoy.”  

Growth Energy Vice President of Market Development Jake Comer added: “Across the country, demand for E15 has been skyrocketing at a record pace, and we’re hopeful California will soon join the ranks.” Growth Energy has worked closely with California retailers to help them offer E85, and the huge volumes show there is no lack of demand for biofuels. We hope 2025 will be the year California allows retailers and customers to access another proven winning blend — E15.” 

Background 

E15 is a fuel blend made of gasoline and 15% bioethanol. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved its use in all cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) made in model year 2001 and newer — that is, more than 96% of all vehicles on the road today. E15 can be found at over 3,700 gas stations in 33 states and is legal for sale in every state except California.  

Last summer, drivers saved 10 to 30 cents per gallon by filling up with E15 option compared to regular, or E10. In some areas, E15 saved drivers as much as a dollar per gallon at the pump. Nationwide access to E15 would save consumers $20.6 billion in annual fuel costs, put an additional $36.3 billion in income into the pockets of American families, and generate $66.3 billion for the U.S. GDP. 

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy and Clean Fuels Alliance America (CFAA) filed a reply brief today in a case challenging the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its failure to reallocate gallons lost due to small refinery exemptions (SREs) granted after renewable volume obligations (RVOs) have been issued under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

“Biofuel producers and their farm partners were never meant to bear the burden of billions of gallons of demand potentially lost to past-year SREs that haven’t been properly accounted for,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “All this case is asking EPA to do is honor the spirit of the RFS by ensuring that RVO volumes are met each year, and give rural America an economic boost by allocating lost biofuel blending obligations to oil refiners, where they belong.”

Read the full brief here.

Background

The case in question pertains to the 2020 RVOs, originally published by EPA on February 6, 2020. The RVO was challenged in the D.C. Circuit by several parties soon thereafter. Growth intervened in support of parts of the rule on behalf of EPA and, separately, petitioned the court to challenge EPA’s failure to reallocate gallons lost to past SREs. After the cases were consolidated (Case No. 20-1046), and after initial briefing in late 2020, the court granted motions to stay the consolidated cases pending the Supreme Court’s decision on SRE eligibility in HollyFrontier v. EPA. The case proceeded until December 2021, when EPA issued a new proposed rule for the 2020 RVO as well as 2021-2022 RVOs and sought remand without vacatur of the original 2020 RVO. The court deferred decision on remand and continued to stay the case. EPA’s final 2020-2022 RVOs also failed to reallocate past SREs. The court continued to stay the original 2020 RVO case until after the D.C. Circuit’s opinion on new cases challenging the new 2020-2022 RVOs. The D.C. Circuit upheld the new 2020-2022 RVOs on May 14, 2024 (Case No. 22-1210), after which time the court lifted the stay on the original 2020 RVO challenge and set a briefing schedule.

After today’s reply brief, the court’s next step will be to set a schedule for oral argument in the coming weeks or months.

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With high inflation and volatile gas prices, American drivers are increasingly relying on the fuel savings offered by E15 (UNL88), a fuel containing 15 percent American ethanol. Compared to standard 10 percent blends (E10), E15 saved American drivers an average of 10-30¢ per gallon last summer — all while increasing U.S. energy security and supporting economic growth across rural America.

Unfortunately, these cost savings could vanish from many markets as early as May 1 of this year due to outdated federal restrictions on summer sales of higher ethanol blends.

For the last six years, American drivers have uninterrupted access to E15 year-round based on actions taken by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In January 2025, President Trump issued an executive order (EO) declaring a national emergency over energy, which, in Section 2(b) of the EO, orders EPA to “consider issuing emergency fuel waivers to allow the year-round sale of E15 gasoline to meet any projected temporary shortfalls in the supply of gasoline across the Nation.”

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AMELIA ISLAND, Fla.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, bestowed its highest honor – the America’s Fuel Award – on Dan Sanders, the immediate past chair and current vice chairman of the Growth Energy Board and the CEO of Front Range Energy. The award recognizes an individual who has gone above and beyond as a champion for the renewable fuels industry. It was presented at Growth Energy’s 16th annual Executive Leadership Conference (ELC).

“Dan has been at the forefront of biofuels advocacy and innovation for nearly 20 years,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “With his father, he founded Front Range Energy in Windsor, Colorado, expanding the footprint of biofuels into the Rocky Mountains. He also led our industry through a global pandemic, major shifts in federal policy, and key regulatory battles as chairman of Growth Energy. From engaging with lawmakers to recruiting new members, he always shows up, he always makes time—not for recognition, but rather, to do his part for the greater good of the industry.  We are tremendously grateful for his continued leadership.”

Sanders holds a business management degree from Arizona State University and has served on Growth Energy’s board of directors since 2013. Sanders was the second chairman to serve Growth Energy, succeeding founding chairman Jeff Broin in 2019, and serving for four years.

Past winners of America’s Fuel Award include Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen (R), former Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, and Raymond E. Defenbaugh, CEO and chairman of Big River Resources LLC in West Burlington, Iowa – along with many others who have made significant contributions to the U.S. bioethanol industry.

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Each year, the TOBI awards recognize Growth Energy members for their innovation, fortitude, perseverance, and leadership in the biofuels industry. From communication professionals and political advocates to technical experts and corporate leaders, the TOBI awards acknowledge the achievements of members who go the extra mile to drive progress within their organizations and the industry. Growth Energy proudly announced the winners of the 2025 TOBI awards at the 2025 Executive Leadership Conference.  The TOBI Award is named for Johan Tobias Lowitz, a German-Russian chemist who created ethanol in 1796 and is considered the “father of fuel ethanol.”

“Our winners represent the game-changers and playmakers who are moving America’s bioeconomy into the future,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We’re grateful to have so many all-stars working help our industry revitalize America’s farm economy and secure U.S. energy dominance.”

Learn more about this year’s winners below.

Winner, Membership – Brent Hansen, Commercial Accounts Manager at Sukup

This year’s TOBI Award for Membership goes to Brent Hansen. Hansen has been a staunch supporter of the biofuels industry and the rural agriculture economy for over 15 years. As Commercial Accounts Manager at Sukup Manufacturing, he has forged long-time partnerships with biofuel producers addressing their needs for grain storage and handling—including constructing the world’s largest grain bin at Growth Energy’s member plant, Golden Grain Energy.

Winner, Advocacy – Trevor Hinz, Director of Industry and Government Relations at ICM, Inc.

This year’s TOBI Award for Advocacy goes to Trevor Hinz. Hinz is among the industry’s strongest champions in Washington, where he helps educate our Congressional champions and other key lawmakers on the industry’s most pressing issues.  He embodies Growth Energy’s thoughtful and strategic approach with policymakers and has been a steady leader at Growth Energy’s fly-ins for almost a decade. Over the years, he has developed solid relationships on Capitol Hill through tactical lobbying, political engagement, and third-party support.

Winner, Public Affairs – Rob Walther, Vice President of Federal Affairs at POET

This year’s TOBI Award for Public Affairs goes to Rob Walther. As a valued and trusted partner for the Growth Energy team, Walther has helped expand the industry’s influence and impact through his generous network, helping to engage prominent third parties to lend credibility and expertise on the benefits of biofuels. Last year, he served as a strategic ally in elevating former Department of Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz’s research to promote our industry’s central role in decarbonizing the transportation sector.

Winner, Market Development – Sarah Clark, Fuel Category Manager at Casey’s

This year’s TOBI Award for Market Development goes to Sarah Clark. Clark brings a winning combination of professional expertise in the fuel industry and a deep understanding of life on the farm, making her a standout player in the biofuels game. She is a relentless advocate for expanding consumer access to biofuels in the retail space. For years, she’s driven innovation in biofuel sales, spearheading initiatives at Casey’s through grant applications, creative marketing strategies, and the management of complex construction schedules—all while fostering internal support for these efforts.

Winner, Global Market Development – Jeremy Mall, Vice President of Business Development at Murex

This year’s TOBI Award for Global Market Development goes to Jeremy Mall. Mall is an all-star in global bioethanol exports, seeking opportunities to help grow markets for the industry around the globe. Whether it is the Canadian Clean Fuel Regulation, the European Union’s Renewable Energy Directive, or other global opportunities and programs, he has always answered the call to provide timely and insightful market perspective benefitting both Growth Energy and the industry.

Winner, Technical Excellence – Jacki Fee, Renewable Fuels Regulatory Advisor at Cargill

This year’s TOBI Award for Technical & Regulatory Affairs goes to Jacki Fee. Fee is a true standout, delivering next-level technical expertise. With more than 30 years at Cargill, she has been an industry cornerstone through her participation at ASTM, Renewable Fuels Nebraska, the Fuel Ethanol Laboratory Conference, and as Chair of the Fuel Ethanol Technical Advisory Group. She has helped to educate lab managers, quality supervisors, and numerous others across the industry.

Congratulations to all of our TOBI award winners! Thank you for making such dynamic contributions to Growth Energy and to the biofuels industry as a whole.

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AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. – Today, Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, welcomed over 400 industry leaders and innovators to Amelia Island, Florida, for the organization’s 16^th annual Executive Leadership Conference (ELC). ELC gathers Growth Energy members from across the country to engage in executive-level educational programming, strategic planning, and networking within the biofuels industry.

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor kicked off the conference with a keynote speech exploring the current political landscape, highlighting policy priorities, and outlining an industry game plan for 2025. “We have the roadmap to a stronger America,” said Skor. “Biofuels deliver for the American people no matter who’s in power.”

One of the industry’s top policy priorities, according to Skor, is securing year-round access to E15, a more affordable fuel blend made with 15% American ethanol that can be used in 96% of cars on the road today. In her keynote, Skor was optimistic in her assessment of the industry’s chances for securing a permanent, legislative fix that allows E15 to be sold all year long, without interruption. “We have a President whose base includes rural America, and permanent, national E15 will raise paychecks and farm incomes,” she said. “We have a Congress that campaigned on the cost of living, and higher blends lead to lower fuel costs. We have a coalition that is bigger and broader than it’s ever been, and we are closer to victory than we’ve ever been.”

Skor also highlighted the importance of a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), reliable access to foreign markets, and updates to the tax code—three policy areas that empower renewable fuel producers to directly support growth in the farm economy.

Aside from the keynote address, the program for this year’s ELC also features more than 20 executive-level educational panels and sessions featuring top-tier speakers from throughout the renewable fuels, retail, public, and agricultural sectors. The event is ongoing in Amelia Island, Fla. Follow along on social using the hashtag #ELC2025.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, welcomed John Deere as its newest member. A global leader in the production of agricultural, construction, forestry, and turf equipment and solutions, John Deere has helped its customers produce food, fiber, fuel, and infrastructure worldwide for nearly 200 years.

“John Deere is among the world’s most recognizable brands, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to our membership network,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “John Deere’s decades of experience providing renewable fuel-compatible solutions to their customers demonstrates their commitment to a vibrant rural economy, and their membership at Growth Energy underscores the strong connection between biofuels and the farm economy. We look forward to leveraging their agricultural expertise as we work to champion policies that advance the biofuel industry and expand the bioeconomy.”

“Renewable fuels like corn ethanol deliver clear benefits by enhancing energy independence, reducing prices at the pump, and lowering emissions, all of which are made possible by our farmer customers,” said Cory Reed, President of the Worldwide Agriculture & Turf Division for Production & Precision Agriculture at John Deere. “John Deere has long worked with farmers to advance and promote the use of crop-based renewable fuels, and we’re proud to partner with Growth Energy to continue this critical work through policy advocacy, industry engagement, and public education.”

John Deere joins Growth Energy as a premium associate member, and will also have a non-voting seat on the association’s board of directors. To learn more about Growth Energy’s membership, click here.

ABOUT GROWTH ENERGY

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. For more information, visit us at GrowthEnergy.org, follow us on X (formerly Twitter) at @GrowthEnergy, or connect with us on Facebook.

ABOUT JOHN DEERE

It doesn’t matter if you’ve never driven a tractor, mowed a lawn, or operated a dozer. With John Deere’s role in helping produce food, fiber, fuel, and infrastructure, we work for every single person on the planet. It all started nearly 200 years ago with a steel plow. Today, John Deere drives innovation in agriculture, construction, forestry, turf, power systems, and more.

For more information on Deere & Company, visit us at www.deere.com/en/news/.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, offered the Trump administration a list of foreign trade barriers that should be targeted for elimination by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). Growth Energy shared the information as part of comments filed in response to the America First Trade Policy Presidential Memorandum and the Presidential Memorandum on Reciprocal Trade and Tariffs.

“Ethanol exports set a record in 2024, and we support USTR’s efforts make trade more fair and more beneficial for the rural economy,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “President Trump’s commitment to an America First trade policy agenda will help bring the economic and environmental benefits of U.S. ethanol to more markets around the world, just as it does here at home.” 

“We are grateful for USTR’s work to date, and have already seen what positive, mutually beneficial exchanges can yield in terms of market access. We look forward to a continuation of these efforts and know that USTR will follow through on its commitment to address unfair trade barriers as this administration works to negotiate new trade agreements that support domestic strength in the rural economy,” added Skor. 

Growth Energy’s comments called for reciprocal tariffs on Brazil, where producers enjoy unfettered access to U.S. markets while Brazil refuses to lift unfair barriers to U.S. biofuels. They also urged USTR to demand China fulfill an unmet commitment to dramatically increase imports of U.S. ethanol and other agricultural commodities. And they called attention to unscientific caps and restrictions on crop-based biofuels for meeting emissions reductions targets in the European Union, United Kingdom, and under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). 

Read Growth Energy’s full letter to USTR here. 

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