With American farmers bringing in a record corn crop, the American Coalition for Ethanol is intensifying its push for federal action to expand market access for biofuels.
Katie Muckenhirn, ACE Vice President of Public Affairs, says the industry is focused on securing year-round E15 sales nationwide and finalizing tax credits for the emerging sustainable aviation fuel market.
While eight Midwest states currently allow year-round E15, ACE is championing the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act to eliminate the need for annual summer waivers.
“The time is ripe for that, even more than ever now with farmers having a record corn crop coming in,” Muckenhirn says. “We need outlets, we need markets for that grain.”
The organization is also navigating complex regulatory hurdles regarding the Renewable Fuel Standard and the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit. Industry leaders are awaiting finalized guidance from the Treasury and USDA to ensure farmers receive credit for low-carbon practices, which would pave the way for ethanol to be used in jet fuel.
Despite legislative delays here at home, Muckenhirn highlights the strength of international demand.
“The trade, our export market, has saved our bacon here the past few years,” she says. “Countries all across the world are importing our U.S. ethanol to make their products cleaner.”
As the legislative calendar winds down, ACE is urging consumers and producers to contact Congress to ensure these renewable fuel priorities cross the finish line.
