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Unleaded 88 sales in MN set record in 2021

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Sales of Unleaded 88, an ethanol-blended fuel that has been the focus of Minnesota Corn’s ethanol-promotion campaigns in recent years, have reached record levels in the state.

According to the state Department of Commerce, 86.6 million gallons of Unleaded 88, also known as E15, were sold in Minnesota in 2021. Previously, the single-year sales record for Unleaded 88 in Minnesota was 78.9 million gallons. That was set in 2019.

Additionally, 12 million gallons of E85, which contains up to 85% ethanol, were sold in Minnesota in 2021. That compares to 11.4 million gallons in 2020.

“We have known for years that Unleaded 88 and other higher-blend biofuels are better for air quality, boost octane and cost less,” Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council Chair Brandon Fast said. “It’s gratifying to see consumers responding by making that choice at the pump.”

Unleaded 88 has been available to Minnesota consumers since 2013. The fuel, which derives its name from its 88 octane rating, is approved for use by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in all model year 2001 and newer vehicles. It burns cleaner than regular unleaded and is typically offered at a lower price.

In recent years, the number of fueling stations offering Unleaded 88 and the number of gallons of Unleaded 88 sold in Minnesota has increased exponentially. That’s due, in part, to the Better Fuel Initiative, which has reached consumers across the state with a positive message about the benefits of ethanol-blended fuels. It’s also due to a 2015 state biofuel infrastructure grant program that was created with the help of an $8 million federal grant and a $1.1 million contribution from Minnesota Corn.

Additionally, grassroots advocacy to preserve the Renewable Fuel Standard and efforts by Minnesota Corn to push back against misconceptions about ethanol have also contributed to the strong numbers.

Currently, Unleaded 88 is found at over 410 Minnesota fueling stations. That could increase in the coming years, thanks to grassroots advocacy by the Minnesota Corn Growers Association. Last year, state lawmakers approved a new $12 million biofuel infrastructure program. The program, to which Minnesota Corn has contributed $1 million, could result in about 125 additional fueling stations offering Unleaded 88. That could increase Unleaded 88 sales in Minnesota by about 40 million gallons annually.

The online application portal for the program is open through March 17.

As part of its mission to promote opportunities for corn farmers, Minnesota Corn has invested over $30 million in ethanol infrastructure, research, education, promotion and more. To learn more about these efforts, visit mncorn.org. To learn more about the benefits of E15 and higher-blend biofuels, and where you can find pumps, visit betterfuel.org.

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