IRFA Elects Officers, Executive Committee for 2014
December 13, 2013
Press Contact: Monte Shaw
515-252-6249
Restoring a Strong RFS and Increasing Consumer Access to E15 and Higher Biodiesel Blends is Top Priority
JOHNSTON, IA – The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) today announced its Board of Directors, Officers and Executive Committee for 2014, elected at its Dec. 12, 2013 annual meeting. Each producer member has a seat on the Board and votes on officers. New officers will serve a one-year term during the 2014 calendar year.
2014 IRFA Board of Directors Officers
President Steve Bleyl, Green Plains Renewable Energy
Vice President Brian Cahill, Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy
Treasurer Tom Brooks, Western Dubuque Biodiesel
Secretary Eamonn Byrne, Plymouth Energy
Executive Director Monte Shaw (non-voting)
The IRFA Executive Committee is comprised of the IRFA Officers and other members as elected by the Board. Elected to join the IRFA Officers on the Executive Committee for 2014 are:
Past President Rick Schwarck, Absolute Energy
At-Large Brad Albin, Renewable Energy Group
At-Large Craig Willis, ADM
“2013 was both a great and challenging year for renewable fuels in Iowa,” stated IRFA President-elect Steve Bleyl. “Leveling the playing field through the restoration of a strong and growing Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and empowering consumers through wider availability of E15 and higher biodiesel blends will be vital to the continued success of Iowa’s ethanol and biodiesel producers in the future. I am energized to help lead IRFA during this critical time.”
Iowa is the leader in renewable fuels production. Iowa has 42 ethanol refineries capable of producing over 3.8 billion gallons annually, with three cellulosic ethanol facilities currently under construction. In addition, Iowa has 12 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce nearly 315 million gallons annually.
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.