Agriculture Department issues $100 million in biofuel grants

An announcement by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack awarding $100 million in grants for the Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership was hailed by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).

The final awards being announced today will expand infrastructure by nearly 5,000 pumps at more than 1,400 fueling stations in 21 states.

“This is a big win for both corn farmers and consumers,” NCGA President Chip Bowling, a Maryland farmer, said. “Fuel choice is important to consumers, and investing in our biofuel infrastructure will help ensure they have access to a stable supply of ethanol that is American-grown, renewable and affordable. While we celebrate this program, we will continue to push the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to uphold the statutory volumes of ethanol required under the Renewable Fuel Standard. With more pumps coming online, it’s important to have the fuel they provide ready to go.”

Along with the 21 states participating in the Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership, private partners have matched federal funds to expand the infrastructure and increase the fuel options for consumers.