05/05/2024 (Rural Radio) - Renewable Fuels Month highlights the importance of renewable biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, especially for Nebraskans. The month of May marks the beginning of the summer driving season, making it an ideal time to fuel up on clean and cost-saving biofuels. Ethanol, renewable diesel and biodiesel help to decrease America’s dependence on foreign oil, boost our nation’s economy, and support thousands of jobs in rural communities.

Ethanol is the third largest Nebraska agriculture commodity, and the use of a 10% blend saves Nebraskans millions per year. In 2023, thanks to ethanol blends of E10 and above, Nebraska drivers saved at least $325 million. The benefits extend from there, as according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, ethanol blends reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43% compared to regular gasoline. Owners of vehicles 2001 and newer can safely use blends of ethanol up to E15 (15% ethanol) and will often enjoy significant additional savings per gallon. Owners of flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) can use blends up to E85 and experience even greater savings.

Nebraska is the second-largest producer of ethanol in the country, and the fuel will soon take to the skies in the coming years. Legislation passed by the 2024 Nebraska Legislature provides a tax credit for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) produced in Nebraska. Ethanol and oils from corn and soybean processing serve as low-carbon, low-cost feedstocks for the production of SAF, which can reduce emissions by more than 50% compared to conventional jet fuel.

Biodiesel adds 70 cents per bushel to the value of soybeans. Bigger demand for soybean oil to make biodiesel also increases the supply of soybean meal, leading to lower animal feed prices paid by poultry and livestock farmers. Biodiesel can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 70% on average compared to petroleum-based diesel fuel. Heavy-duty diesel vehicles can lower emissions by filling up with biodiesel blends of 20% (B20) or higher. Find locations near you at biodieselne.com.

The renewable diesel industry also continues to grow. According to Clean Fuels Alliance America, “renewable diesel is a biomass-based diesel fuel made from the same renewable feedstocks as biodiesel using a process that resembles traditional diesel fuel production. Renewable diesel is a drop-in diesel replacement that meets ASTM D975 – the same standard for petroleum diesel. It can be used in ground, rail and marine transportation, as well as agricultural equipment.”

https://ruralradio.com/kneb-fm/news/nebraska-celebrates-renewable-fuels-month-this-may-2/