Report: More biofuel sold at Minnesota stations in 2023
Minnesota fuel stations reported record sales of 127.5 million gallons of Unleaded 88 in 2023, which continues to reveal that the state’s drivers experience the benefits of using biofuels in their vehicles. Unleaded 88, which sold for 16 cents less than regular unleaded, on average, in 2023, not only costs less but reduces emissions, increases consumer choice at the pump, and is EPA approved for vehicles 2001 and newer.
On Wednesday, the Minnesota Department of Commerce filed its final 2023 data for reported sales, which shows Unleaded 88 sales were up 20.9 percent from 2022. Legislation passed in 2023, sponsored by State Rep. Luke Frederick and State Sen. Rob Kupec, and supported by the Minnesota Corn Growers Association and the Minnesota Biofuels Association, requires all fuel stations in the state to report biofuel sales to the Department of Commerce. Stations could voluntarily report biofuel sales prior to the new reporting requirement. Minnesota and Iowa are now the only two states that require tracking and reporting of biofuel sales, and the new requirement will help get a better picture of sales for biofuel blends.
“The reporting legislation is a game-changer for truly understanding biofuel sales and use in the state of Minnesota,” said MCGA president Dana Allen-Tully. “Now we have a better picture of biofuels consumption across the state.”
Allen-Tully added that biofuels like Unleaded 88 and E85 not only save Minnesotans money, but also support local corn farmers and ethanol production facilities. “The entire biofuels cycle contributes to the health of the state’s economy. And, when you get the reward of reduced emissions from using fuel like Unleaded 88, everyone benefits.”
Minnesota has been a leader in adopting Unleaded 88 for several years, but access to the fuel blend is at risk for the coming driving season. The EPA recently finalized a rule allowing for permanent year-round sales of Unleaded 88 in eight midwestern states, including Minnesota, but it won’t take effect until 2025. To secure access to Unleaded 88 during the busy summer driving season this year, a waiver must be granted, or stations will not be allowed to sell the fuel starting on June 1.
The latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows Minnesota had the top blend rate in the nation at 12.72% in 2022, thanks in part to the record sales of Unleaded 88.
Review a recap of Unleaded 88 sales across 2023 here.
