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Support for E-10 continues to expand to new consumer markets
Support for ethanol-blended fuels continues to spread to new consumer markets beyond the Corn Belt, as drivers across the nation increasingly recognize the environmental and economic benefits offered by domestically produced, clean-burning renewable fuels, according to the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA).
Montana state Sen. Jerry Black (R) recently announced he is working on legislation that would require all gasoline pumped in the state to contain at least 10 percent ethanol (E-10). The proposal is similar to a measure being pushed by Idaho lawmakers and farm groups for an E-10 requirement in that state. If these proposals are adopted, Montana and Idaho would join Minnesota and Hawaii as the only states with statewide ethanol requirements.
Daryl Haack, chair of NCGA's Ethanol Committee, said corn growers are supportive of legislation that facilitates growth of the ethanol industry. "Not only is ethanol good for the environment and good for our nation's energy security, but it also offers value-added opportunities for corn growers across the United States," Haack said.
Based on gasoline consumption data from 2003, an E-10 requirement would create a market in Montana for approximately 41 million gallons per year--that's roughly the annual output of the average farmer-owned ethanol plant.
Haack said the U.S. ethanol industry is expected to produce 3.35 billion gallons in 2004. "As ethanol use increases, we are going to need new plants to meet increasing demand," he said. According to the Renewable Fuels Association, 82 ethanol plants are operating in the United States, with another 16 plants under construction.
Date: 12/21/04
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