FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                 

Press Contact: Monte Shaw

December 29, 2011

515-252-6249

Iowa Biodiesel Production Sets Record in 2011

Industry Roars Back to Life After 2010, But Challenges Remain

JOHNSTON, IA – The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) today announced that Iowa’s biodiesel production set a new record in 2011 after a very difficult 2010.  Ten of Iowa’s 13 biodiesel plants operated during 2011 and produced a combined 169 million gallons.  With plants restarting throughout the year, the rate of biodiesel production in December reached over 250 million gallons (annualized).

“2011 has been a banner year for Iowa biodiesel,” said IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw.  “The reinstatement of the biodiesel tax credit combined with the renewable fuels standard (RFS) jumpstarted demand and Iowa was quick to respond.  Yet challenges remain in front of us.  Congress will once again allow the biodiesel tax credit to lapse at the end of 2011.  With the RFS firmly in place, we do not expect the industry to completely shut down as it did in 2010.  But the uncertainty of reinstatement will undoubtedly depress demand.  Congress must act quickly in 2012 to extend the tax credit.”

Iowa produced 48 million gallons of biodiesel in 2010.  The previous record production was 85 million gallons in 2009.

Iowa is the leader in renewable fuels production.  Iowa has 41 ethanol refineries capable of producing 3.7 billion gallons annually. In addition, Iowa has 13 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce 320 million gallons annually.

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association was formed in 2002 to represent the state’s liquid renewable fuels industry. The trade group fosters the development and growth of the renewable fuels industry in Iowa through education, promotion, legislation and infrastructure development.

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For more information, visit the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association website at:  www.IowaRFA.org