According to a recent survey conducted by the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA), Iowa’s 11 biodiesel plants produced a combined 349 million gallons of biodiesel 2022, up from 340 million gallons in 2021. Last year’s production was the third highest reported, with a record 365 million gallons produced in Iowa in 2018.
“Iowa continues to lead the nation in biodiesel production,” stated IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw.
“Biodiesel continues to be a good market for adding value for Iowa farmers. Even with growing renewable diesel production around the country, we see exciting new opportunities for biodiesel in addition to traditional on-road and agricultural markets. Home-heating oil, rail, and even marine applications are emerging that we believe will grow biodiesel demand in future years.”
Soybean oil, with 71% of production, remained the feedstock of choice for Iowa biodiesel producers. Likewise, animal fats remained in second place at 11%. Canola oil usage increased markedly to barely edge corn oil for third place. Both accounted for roughly 7% of production. Used cooking oil dropped to 4% of production.