More Iowa drivers will soon have greater access to higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel thanks to more than $2 million in state cost-share grants awarded through the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP).
The program recently approved $1.43 million in grants for 24 retail fuel locations to expand access to higher ethanol blends, while an additional $604,212 was awarded to 14 retailers for biodiesel infrastructure improvements.
Lisa Coffelt, Marketing Director for the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association and a member of the Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Board, said the continued demand for the program reflects Iowa’s commitment to expanding renewable fuel options.
“The continued strong interest in RFIP demonstrates the momentum behind expanding consumer access to higher biofuel blends across Iowa,” Coffelt said. “These investments help retailers upgrade their infrastructure while giving more Iowans the opportunity to choose cleaner-burning, lower-cost renewable fuels.”
Retailers receiving ethanol infrastructure funding must offer E15 or higher ethanol blends, while biodiesel grant recipients are required to provide B11 or higher biodiesel blends. During colder months, retailers may offer B5 biodiesel.
Since its creation, the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program has invested more than $67 million in fueling infrastructure across Iowa. The funding has helped gas stations install new pumps, storage tanks, and other equipment needed to offer higher blends of renewable fuels to consumers.
The Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Board is made up of voting members appointed by the Governor of Iowa and oversees the state’s investment in renewable fuel infrastructure.
Source: Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA)
