Grainnet

Johnston, IA – The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Dec. 19 announced that Iowa ethanol refineries will produce a record 1.5 billion gallons in 2006.

This production represents a 36% increase over the 1.1 billion gallons produced by Iowa refineries in 2005.

In producing the record amount of ethanol, Iowa’s ethanol refineries processed over 550 million bushels of corn, or about 25% of Iowa’s 2.16 billion bushel corn harvest from 2005.

“There was record demand for ethanol from coast-to-coast this year and Iowa stepped up to fill the need,” said Monte Shaw, IRFA Executive Director.

“In fact, Iowa ethanol refineries will produce just over 30% of the entire 2006 U.S. ethanol production. That’s a fine testament to Iowa entrepreneurs, Iowa workers, and Iowa corn growers.”

In addition to leading the nation in ethanol production, Iowa is home to the most ethanol plants.

In December, U.S. BioEnergy’s ethanol refinery in Albert City began production bringing Iowa’s total to 26 ethanol refineries. The annual production capacity of these 26 plants is 1.7 billion gallons.

“Iowa’s leading role in ethanol is not likely to end either,” added Shaw.

“Iowa has 16 new ethanol refineries and five major expansions under construction. They will add 1.6 billion gallons to Iowa’s annual production capacity."

Shaw added, "Further, IRFA estimates that a dozen new projects could begin in 2007 adding yet another 1.4 billion gallons of capacity. The growth rate is truly phenomenal. But what’s most important is the tremendous boost ethanol production is giving to Iowa’s economy.”

A list of Iowa’s ethanol plants in operation and under construction can be found on the IRFA website at: www.iowarfa.org/ethanol_refineries.php. Production estimate is based on industry reports.

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.

For more information, call Monte Shaw at 515-252-6249.

See Related Websites/Articles:

• Iowa Renewable Fuels Association

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