Iowa biodiesel leaders applaud Grassley effort urging RFS biofuels increase

Photo: Jenna Higgins Rose, Iowa Biodiesel Board

The Iowa Biodiesel Board and the Iowa Soybean Association commended Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and 15 of his Senate colleagues for urging U.S. EPA to increase volumes of biomass-based diesel, including biodiesel, under the federal Renewable Fuel Standard.

The bipartisan effort, also led by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota, and backed by Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, highlights the urgent need to support America’s biofuels industry and the rural economy.

“The bipartisan leadership of Sen. Grassley and his colleagues sends a clear message—biofuels play a critical role in strengthening America’s energy security and economy,” said Grant Kimberley, executive director of IBB.

“We need the EPA to increase RFS volumes to match real-world production and demand,” Kimberley added.

“Biodiesel producers in Iowa are facing uncertain market conditions, with many of our plants idled or operating at reduced capacity. Setting volumes too low puts plants, jobs and economic growth at risk,” he said.

The biodiesel industry has requested the RFS include 5.25 billion gallons of biomass-based diesel for 2026, a level that reflects the industry’s ability to produce and supply clean, renewable fuel to the marketplace.

Brent Swart, president of ISA and a farmer from Spencer, Iowa, emphasized the importance of biodiesel to Iowa’s farmers.

“Biodiesel provides a vital market for soybeans and other feedstocks grown right here in Iowa while allowing farmers to participate in American energy production,” Swart said.

“The RFS has long been a key driver of demand for our crops, and increasing biofuel volumes will ensure continued investment in rural communities while helping farmers remain competitive,” he said.

“With increased international competition and market uncertainty for soybeans, ensuring strong domestic demand through the RFS is more important than ever,” Swart added.

The Senate letter underscores the economic and environmental benefits of biodiesel, urging EPA to provide certainty through multiyear volume increases that reflect industry capacity.

Iowa remains the nation’s leading biodiesel-producing state, and industry leaders say the EPA’s decision will directly impact farmers, producers and rural economies.

“Once again, Sen. Grassley has filled a vital leadership role in urging strong biofuel volumes that sustain and grow this essential industry, and he has our deepest gratitude,” Kimberley added. “Now, we need action from EPA.”