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NCGA programs expand access to higher ethanol blends

A three-year fuel pump infrastructure program lead by the National Corn Growers Association has delivered 50,000 fuel pumps across the country that support higher octane fuels.

NCGA President Kevin Ross tells Brownfield they worked with Wayne Fueling Systems to produce and sell the pumps that pump a blend up to E25.

“That was a really fantastic opportunity for us not just right now with E10-E15 usage levels but really moving into the higher-level blends that we would like to get to down the road. 50,000 fuel pumps, that is a big deal right there.”

NCGA has also partnered with the Renewable fuels Association to help retailers apply for the USDA’s Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program which includes $86 million to expand the availability of higher blends like E15 and E85.

So far, those efforts have reached applicants representing more than 1100 fuel dispensers across 21 states.

NCGA Market Development Vice President Jim Bauman says if the US were to move to a higher octane, mid-level blend of ethanol long-term it could create 5 billion gallons of new ethanol demand, equivalent to 1.8 billion bushels of corn annually.