The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced $210 million will be invested through its Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership (BIP).
In September, the agency revealed the 21 states chosen for competitive BIP grants to help nearly double the number of fueling pumps nationwide that supply higher blends of ethanol, such as E15 and E85, at vehicle fueling locations.
After launching the BIP earlier this year, the agency received applications requesting over $130 million, outpacing the $100 million available. With the matching commitments by state and private entities, however, the BIP is investing a total of $210 million.
“This major investment in renewable energy infrastructure will give Americans more options that not only will suit their pocketbooks, but also will reduce our country’s environmental impact and bolster our rural economy,” says Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
The National Corn Growers Association has lauded the BIP.
“This is a big win for both corn farmers and consumers,” says Chip Bowling, NCGA president and a Maryland farmer, in a statement. “Fuel choice is important to consumers, and investing in our biofuel infrastructure will help ensure they have access to a stable supply of ethanol that is American-grown, renewable and affordable.”
The 21 states participating in the BIP include Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
More information can be found here.
