The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded nearly $17 million in grants to 246 Iowa retail locations as part of its Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP), including several here in the listening area. The funds, announced last week by Secretary Tom Vilsack, are part of a larger $90.3 million initiative across 26 states to upgrade fueling infrastructure to expand consumer access to biofuel blends like E15 and B20. Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw says, “Iowa retailers are really stepping up to benefit all Iowans by providing consumers with cleaner-burning, lower-cost, better-quality fuel options at the pump. E15 can save consumers 10 to 25 cents per gallon. With Iowa’s E15 Access Standard taking effect on Jan. 1, 2026, programs like HBIIP and the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) provide tools to help Iowa retailers prepare. IRFA is encouraged by the number of retailers who are actively working to meet the deadline to expand the availability of homegrown biofuels while providing a boost to the economy.” HBIIP provides cost-share grants to significantly increase the sales and use of ethanol and biodiesel. On average, each grant dollar has leveraged four dollars in private investment, further boosting the state’s economy. Morrow’s Standard Service of Lake City will receive a $377,250 grant for infrastructure installation, which is expected to increase biofuels sales at the location by 190,000 gallons per year. Ettleman’s Town and Country in Dow City will receive $648,900 with an estimated annual impact of 228,854 gallons per year. Casey’s was awarded $3,519,825 for dispensers at 194 stations around the state. A link to the list of all Iowa recipients is included with this story on our website.
_____
