Iowa ethanol and biodiesel producers both set production records in 2016, processing a record amount of Iowa corn, soybean oil, animal fats and other feedstocks into clean-burning renewable fuels. As that economic activity flowed throughout Iowa, it left a significant impact, according to a new economic impact study commissioned by the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA).  

The study was released Feb. 13 and was written by John Urbanchuk of ABF Economics. The study found that in 2016 the renewable fuels industry in Iowa:
• supported more than 42,000 jobs throughout the entire Iowa economy
• generated about $2.3 billion in household income for Iowans
• accounted for roughly $4.7 billion, or 3.5%, of Iowa’s gross domestic product.

Consistent government policy needed
“The results of this new study clearly show the influence policy consistency and certainty have on biofuel industry growth and economic impact,” says IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw. “Policy for biodiesel was clear and consistent in 2016, and production and its economic impact both increased. But trade barriers and low Renewable Fuel Standard levels stunted the growth of Iowa ethanol. My hope for 2017, with RFS levels set at statutory levels, is we will see more production and increased economic benefit for Iowa.”

To view a fact sheet on the study, as well as the study, visit iowarfa.org/economicimpactstudy.

Lifetime champion of renewable fuels
In other news about biofuels, IRFA recently presented Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad with the Lifetime Champion of Renewable Fuels Award.

In honor of his longtime support of renewable fuels, IRFA recognized Gov. Terry Branstad with this honor at the 2017 Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit.

Throughout his distinguished career, Branstad has supported several policy initiatives that have helped expand the production and use of renewable fuels, including converting the state fleet to E85, championing value-added agriculture, and embracing nation-leading public policies, such as the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program, Biodiesel Production Tax Credit, and E15, E85 and biodiesel tax credits for retailers. To recognize his consistent support of renewable fuels, he was presented with a plaque and an inscribed “Don’t Mess with the RFS” desk ornament.

No one has done more to defend RFS
“Gov. Branstad’s support for renewable fuels has been unparalleled and unwavering,” said Shaw. “No one in America has done more to defend the Renewable Fuel Standard. Gov. Branstad embodies the sentiment of ‘Don’t Mess with the RFS.’ Under his leadership, Iowa has become the leader not only in ethanol and biodiesel production, but in biofuels policy as well. Our hope is this award serves as a mere token of our heartfelt appreciation.”

Branstad is President Donald Trump’s nominee for U.S. ambassador to China. Following his expected confirmation by the U.S. Senate, he will step down from his position as governor of Iowa and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds is to succeed him.

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association represents the state’s liquid renewable fuels industry and works to foster its growth. Iowa is the nation’s leader in renewable fuels production with 43 ethanol refineries capable of producing 4 billion gallons annually, including nearly 55 million gallons of annual cellulosic ethanol production capacity and 12 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce over 350 million gallons annually. For more information, visit the IRFA website at iowarfa.org.