Ethanol Keeps Gasoline Prices $1.09 Cheaper
America’s growing use of domestically-produced ethanol reduced wholesale gasoline prices by an average of $1.09 per gallon in 2011, according to updated research conducted by economics professors at the University of Wisconsin and Iowa State University.
Posted in Ethanol, Gas Prices
Ethanol, DDGS Exports Move Higher in March
U.S. exports of ethanol (denatured and undenatured, non-beverage) totaled 83.4 million gallons (mg) in March, according to government data released this morning. Exports of distillers grains (or DDGS), the animal feed co-product manufactured by ethanol dry mills, totaled 641,402 metric tons (mt) in March.
USDA Projects Record Corn Crop in 2012—What Does it Mean for Ethanol?
This morning, USDA released its first estimate of the 2012 corn crop--and it is a big one. According to today’s USDA projections, record U.S. corn production of 14.79 billion bushels is expected in 2012. This should put an end to the phony “food vs. fuel” campaign, but we know better—even the most stubborn facts haven’t stopped ethanol’s critics from continuing to pursue their respective political agendas in the past.
Posted in Ethanol, Production
Don’t Mess With the RFS Part 2- Advanced Ethanol Legislative Agenda
The Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) calls for the production and use of 21 billion gallons of advanced biofuels by 2022. Learn more on the agenda for advanced biofuels in the info-graph from the RFA and AEC.
Posted in Ethanol, Renewable Fuels Standard
Answering Crocodile Tears
In recent testimony before the Joint Economic Committee, Mr. Thomas O’Malley, chairman of PBF Energy, attempted to tar and feather ethanol and the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) as the root cause of refinery closures in the Northeast. Mr. O’Malley’s comments are more reflective of the petroleum industry’s crusade against renewable fuels and a willingness to play fast and loose with the facts.
Posted in Ethanol, Oil, Renewable Fuels Standard
Don’t Mess With the RFS Part 1
The Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) is an American success story. It has helped reduce America's dependence on foreign oil, stimulated investment in domestic renewable energy, and helped consumers by lowering the price of gas. Learn more in the info-graph from the RFA.
Posted in Ethanol, Energy, Renewable Fuels Standard
Ethanol and DDGS Exports Are Steady in February
According to government data released today, the U.S. exported 74.8 million gallons (mg) of ethanol (denatured and undenatured, non-beverage) in February. Year-to-date exports stand at 151.1 mg, indicating an annualized total of just over 900 mg for 2012.
Response to FOX Tampa Bay Report on Ethanol and Gas Prices
In response to a news story from FOX Tampa Bay claiming ethanol raises gas prices, RFA reveals the truth that in fact gas mileage reduction from ethanol is only about 3%, the equivalent of driving on poorly inflated tires. Additionally, without ethanol, prices at the pump would be undoubtedly higher.
Posted in Ethanol
Missing the Larger Point…Response to US Inches Toward Goal of Energy Independence
In a recent Letter to the Editor of the New York Times, I highlight the benefits the use of ethanol fuel and how increased use and production has dramatically reduced our foreign oil imports and dependence.
Posted in Ethanol, Renewable Fuels Standard
U.S. Ethanol Exports Strong in January; Brazil is Top Market
Government data released today showed the U.S. exported 76.3 million gallons (mg) of ethanol (denatured and undenatured, non-beverage) in January. This marks the highest total ever for the first month of the year, which is typically a slow month for U.S. ethanol exports.
Ethanol’s Role in Reducing Gas Prices
Gas prices are dominating the headlines and we have yet to embark on the summer driving season, the traditional kick-off to high gas prices. With Congress holding hearings this week on gas prices, the President holding a press conference today, voters taking to the polls today, and the energy world gathering in Houston this week, we have analyzed the data to provide background information on the downward pressure exerted by domestic ethanol production on gasoline prices.
2011 Ethanol Exports Total 1.19 Billion Gallons; Brazil Accounts for One-Third of Shipments
2011 was a huge year for ethanol exports. According to government data released this morning, the year ended with record monthly ethanol exports of 172.7 million gallons (mg) in December. More than 40% of December exports went to Brazil.
NEC Scholarship Recipient Essay Rises Above the Rest
The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and Renewable Fuels Foundation (RFF) believe it is important for students interested in the biofuels and renewable fuels industry to have an opportunity to explore what the industry has to offer them by meeting with and talking to experts and industry leaders at the National Ethanol Conference. This essay submitted by a scholarship recipient was among some of the outstanding applicants.
Posted in Education, National Ethanol Conference
Outstanding Essay from NEC Scholarship Recipient
For the third consecutive year, the RFA and RFF offered scholarships to students in higher education for a chance to receive a complementary registration at the 17th Annual National Ethanol Conference. Applicants were asked to explain how this scholarship will assist them in achieving their academic and/or career goals in 500 words or less. This year, two essays stood out above the rest.
Posted in Education, National Ethanol Conference
Another Record-Breaking Month for Ethanol Exports
U.S. exports of denatured and undenatured (non-beverage) ethanol set a new monthly record of 152.5 million gallons (mg) in November, according to government data released this morning.
Ethanol Remains a Bargain
Countless stories and editorials have noted that the tax incentive for the use of ethanol has been allowed to expire. What the majority of these stories fail to note is that ethanol remains the lowest cost transportation fuel on the market today – and thus, is saving consumers’ money.
Understanding California Court Decision and the LCFS
A federal court in California has ruled that the California Low Carbon Fuel Standard violates the Commerce Clause of the Constitution. This is a significant development for all U.S. ethanol producers. In the following post, the RFA explains the ruling and why it truly matters.
The 2012 Crystal Ball
A new year ushers in a new era for ethanol in the U.S. New markets domestically and internationally are opening up just as new technologies for ethanol production begin commercial construction at new biorefineries around the country. What 2012 will ultimately hold for American ethanol production remains to be seen, but that shouldn’t stop us from positing some guesses.
Posted in E15, Engines, Ethanol, Exports, Land Use, Production
Top 5 Ethanol Stories for 2011
2011 was a momentous year for America’s ethanol industry both domestically and internationally. From new markets to new technologies to a new policy framework, the events of 2011 will shape the future of America’s renewable fuel industry.
Ethanol growth not leading to cropland expansion, new USDA report shows
An in-depth analysis of U.S. land use patterns released today by the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows total cropland decreased by 34 million acres from 2002 to 2007, the lowest level since USDA began collecting this data 1945. The RFA said the new report is one more addition to the mounting body of evidence that proves increased ethanol production has not resulted in expansion of total U.S. cropland or a decline in grassland and forest.
Posted in Agriculture, Land Use, Research, USDA
