U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced that the USDA will release funds under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) to support 543 projects across 29 states. The funding totals $537 million and includes recent projects approved in the early days of the Trump Administration. This action follows President Trump's Executive Order on Unleashing American Energy, emphasizing support for farmers, ranchers, and small business owners in rural areas.
The announcement was made at Elite Octane LLC in Atlantic, Iowa. Iowa stands out in ethanol and biodiesel production, with significant production capacities in both sectors.
“President Trump is honoring our commitment to America’s farmers, ranchers, and small businesses, especially here in Iowa where corn and soy growers are crucial to supporting ethanol and biodiesel production,” said Secretary Rollins. "Under the President’s leadership, we are moving away from the harmful effects of misguided climate policies like the Green New Deal. Instead, USDA will deploy energy investments that prioritize the needs of our rural communities."
The USDA is looking for more ways to promote U.S. biofuels, working with the EPA on Renewable Volume Obligations and reviewing possible fuel waivers for nationwide E15 sales. The HBIIP, established during President Trump's first term, aids in expanding domestic biofuel production by funding infrastructure for biofuel options at fueling stations.
Investments in HBIIP impact American farmers by increasing the availability of fuels like E15, E85, and B20, boosting the nation's energy supply, creating jobs, and supporting economic growth in rural areas.
