S&P Global Energy Study Reinforces Importance of Expanding Year-Round E15 Access

WEST DES MOINES, IA - As agricultural productivity continues to climb, a new study from S&P Global Energy finds that future agricultural growth could be constrained by lack of demand rather than a lack of production. Commissioned by U.S. Farmers and Ranchers in Action (USFRA), the findings highlight the importance of expanding consumer access to E15, one of the most immediate opportunities to create additional demand for Iowa-grown corn.

"This study should be a wake-up call to the naysayers because agricultural productivity isn't going to slow down - not in Iowa, not in the United States, and not around the world," stated Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. "For farmers the challenge isn't producing enough grain, it's ensuring there are strong, reliable markets growing along with their productivity. This study makes it clear that expanded access to E15 provides one of the most practical and immediate opportunities to create demand for farmers, while also offering consumers a lower-cost fuel option."

The study explains that future agricultural expansion increasingly depends on new demand opportunities capable of absorbing rising production. Ethanol markets are required for maintaining value and substantiating long-term economic growth. With millions of vehicles approved to use E15 today, expanding year-round access offers an existing, scalable solution that benefits consumers and Iowa agriculture. Details of the study can be found at: www.fuelingagriculture.com

"The findings reinforce the need for action in the U.S. Senate to unlock E15," stated Shaw. "The last twenty years have taught Iowa farmers and renewable fuel producers that strong domestic biofuel markets are essential to maintaining a healthy agricultural economy. Expanding access to E15 not only supports corn demand today but also helps ensure that agriculture's productivity translates into economic opportunity, not stagnation."

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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 42 ethanol refineries capable of producing over 5 billion gallons annually - including 34 million gallons of annual cellulosic ethanol production capacity - and 8 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce 408 million gallons annually. For more information, visit the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association website at: www.IowaRFA.org .