Iowa Biodiesel Plants Operated at 54 Percent Capacity in First Quarter
May 14, 2013
Press Contact: Monte Shaw
515-252-6249
Higher Blend Usage Would Further Boost Positive Economic Impacts
JOHNSTON, IA – The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) today announced that Iowa’s biodiesel plants operated at 54 percent capacity in the first quarter of 2013, producing 42.7 million gallons. Nine of the state’s 12 biodiesel plants reported production. If all 12 Iowa biodiesel facilities operated at full capacity, they would produce 315 million gallons in one year. The industry is focused on promoting higher biodiesel blends to boost demand and maximize the biodiesel industry’s positive impacts on the state’s economy.
“While the first quarter was solid start, biodiesel production in Iowa has plenty of room to grow,” stated IRFA Communications Director T.J. Page. “Iowa’s famers and policymakers have a real opportunity to further boost biodiesel’s job creation and rural revitalization potential. IRFA continues to urge the Legislature to create a B10 differential in any fuel tax legislation considered this year. We’ve seen a strong move toward B5 blends, but promoting B10 has the potential to double the positive economic impact.”
In addition to the economy-wide impacts, biodiesel production also boosts farmers’ bottom lines by increasing the value of soybeans, lowering feed costs, and raising the value of animal fats for Iowa’s livestock producers. To learn more about how biodiesel benefits Iowa’s farmers, please visit www.MoreBforMe.com.
“Distribution limits can still be a problem, but Iowa farmers must demand access to biodiesel blends,” continued Page. “Farmers have a real opportunity to drive demand for their own product by simply telling whoever fills their farm tank: ‘make it biodiesel.’”
Iowa is the leader in renewable fuels production. Iowa has 12 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce nearly 315 million gallons annually. In addition, Iowa has 41 ethanol refineries capable of producing over 3.7 billion gallons annually, with one wet mill and two cellulosic ethanol facilities currently under construction.
The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association was formed in 2002 to represent the state’s liquid renewable fuels industry. The trade group fosters the development and growth of the renewable fuels industry in Iowa through education, promotion, legislation and infrastructure development.