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Nebraska biofuel industry stakeholders proclaim May as Renewable Fuels Month

Nebraska biofuel industry stakeholders are promoting higher-blended fuels to kick off the summer driving season Monday.

Governor Pete Ricketts has proclaimed May as Renewable Fuels Month in Nebraska. “We continue to see this investment in renewable energy and that is one of things we want to continue to promote.  It’s going to save drivers at the pump, clean up the environment and it’s great for our farmers and ranchers.”

Ethanol blends at participating gas stations were sold at a discount during May.  Motorists saved on E15 (also known as Unleaded88), and some stations also offered E30 and E85. E15 is a 15% ethanol blend, E30 a 30% blend, and E85 an 85% blend.

Pam Miller with Renewable Fuels Nebraska tells Brownfield educating consumers to purchase higher blends of biofuels helps ag producers be more profitable.

“The price alone usually gives them a reason to try. It’s usually about five cents a gallon cheaper and it’s not a ploy or anything but economics.  It’s cheaper fuel and more affordable, which is great,” she says. “That’s because we’re using corn, a renewable energy source right here in Nebraska and it’s made here in Nebraska.”

Ricketts joined a local gas station along with The Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Nebraska Corn Board, Nebraska Ethanol Board and the Renewable Fuels Nebraska at a signing ceremony Friday.