MCGA, national partners continue ethanol efforts
This spring, the Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA) and its national partners have been working to ensure lawmakers have the most accurate, up-to-date information about ethanol as they discuss energy policy.
On March 3, NCGA President Chris Edgington sent a letter to members of Congress reminding them about the many benefits of ethanol-blended fuel, such as its lower cost and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Blending more ethanol into fuel is an immediate step to help lower gas prices, Edgington wrote, calling for Congress to restore full market access for E15 by passing legislation or working with the EPA on solutions.
Additionally, he urged Congress to consider policies to enhance energy security and decarbonize transportation such as the Next Generation Fuels Act.
On March 4, NCGA and five other agriculture and biofuel groups wrote a letter to the Biden administration suggests three ways the administration could authorize year-round E15. All three emergency options would use existing EPA authority to provide temporary relief on year-round E15 while helping alleviate price distributions for consumers by increasing ethanol blending. MCGA supports this common-sense step and urges immediate action to ensure parity between E10 and E15 blends during the summer months while we work with federal and state partners on a long-term solution.
MCGA thanks our national partners for their leadership on these critical issues. Ethanol is a homegrown, renewable fuel that reduces greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 50% compared to gasoline and replaces the most toxic gasoline components that cause harmful tailpipe emissions. It also contains higher levels of engine-boosting octane. We’re proud to promote this cleaner-burning, lower-cost fuel and will continue to work to ensure opportunities for market expansion at the federal level.
At home, MCGA continues to lead on a handful of state legislative proposals that would ensure more Minnesota consumers can access cleaner-burning ethanol. Like in past years, MCGA is strongly advocating for passage of a statewide E15 standard. We’re heartened by the bill’s recent introduction in both the state House and state Senate and appreciate the bipartisan lawmakers who support increased ethanol blends. Additionally, MCGA is working with stakeholders on legislation that would assist retailers in replacing old equipment, allowing higher blends of ethanol to be sold.
In addition to legislative advocacy, MCGA is continuing our comprehensive effort to expand the use of ethanol through consumer outreach. Last month, MCGA began its 2022 Better Fuel Initiative campaign, which promotes E15, or Unleaded 88, to a statewide audience. This year’s campaign includes new advertisements featuring KFAN’s Chris Hawkey that will be played on TV, radio and digital platforms across the state. We look forward to the Better Fuel Initiative again making a positive difference in boosting awareness and, ultimately, sales of ethanol-blended fuels.
Visit betterfuel.org to learn more about the many benefits of ethanol-blended fuel.
