FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Lucy Norton, Managing Director, 515-225-9242
Monte Shaw, Executive Director, 515-225-9242

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

E85 Sales Continue to Skyrocket in Iowa
2nd Quarter Sales up 92% Over 1st Quarter, Up 255% Over Last Year

JOHNSTON, IA – The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) today announced that E85 sales in Iowa continue to grow exponentially according to the latest state figures.  According to the Iowa Department of Revenue, sales of E85 by Iowa retailers reached 570,961 gallons during the second quarter of 2006.  That was a 92% increase over the first quarter and a whopping 255% increase over the same time period in 2005.

“The latest E85 sales figures leave no doubt that Iowans are passionate about renewable fuels,” said Monte Shaw, IRFA Executive Director.  “With Iowa retailers increasing the number of E85 fueling sites, we predict this trend will continue.  Also, most of the top selling vehicles in Iowa are flexible fuel vehicles capable of running on E85.  Simply put, we’re looking at the future here.”

Iowa E85 Sales

Iowa is the leader in renewable fuels production.  Currently, Iowa has 25 ethanol refineries with the capacity to produce nearly 1.6 billion gallons annually.  There are 9 ethanol refineries under construction or expansion that will add over 600 million gallons of annual capacity.  In addition, Iowa has 14 biodiesel refineries with a combined annual capacity of over 315 million gallons either in operation or under construction.  Many additional renewable fuels projects are under development.

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