JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.–Responding to a court-ordered deadline, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today issued the final biofuel blending volumes for 2021 and 2022 required under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The agency’s final biofuel blending requirements allow for 15 billion gallons of corn-based ethanol for 2022. The final volumes also include 12.5 billion gallons of conventional biofuels for 2020, typically comprised of corn-based ethanol. The 2021 volumes include 13.79 billion gallons of conventional biofuels, falling more than 1 billion gallons short of the 15 billion gallons instructed by Congress. The Missouri Corn Growers Association (MCGA) President Jay Schutte of Benton City, Mo., released the following statement: “At a time when families are suffering from high inflation and skyrocketing gas prices, it makes sense to bring every viable energy option to the table. While the 2021 levels fall short, the precedent set with 2022 numbers, is a strong signal the administration intends to fulfill the RFS as set out by Congress. Priced today more than $1.40 under unblended gasoline at the wholesale level, corn-based ethanol is a high octane, low carbon fuel source that helps clean the air and our environment. Meanwhile, the oil industry continues to make billions in record profits on the backs of America’s business owners and consumers. “It is clear we need to do more to diversify our energy portfolio. Missouri corn farmers and the state’s ethanol industry stand ready to answer the call with a locally refined fuel that can help lower gas prices and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” | 