News

New vehicle emission standards could be good for ethanol demand

The National Corn Growers Association says EPA’s proposal on auto emission standards could mean more demand for ethanol if high octane fuels are recognized as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“If you are blending more ethanol in a higher percentage than right now—that could certainly be a growing market for corn farmers.”

Director of Public Policy Kathy Bergren tells Brownfield high octane fuels provide a cost-effective way for automakers to build vehicles that get better fuel economy and have lower greenhouse gas emissions.  “Automakers still have some compliance obligations that they will have to meet one way or another, I think the question is, ‘How will those continue to grow or not grow?’”

The proposal sets vehicle standards for fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions, and high octane fuels could be part of the solution.

Bergren says NCGA will provide comments focused on the high octane portions of the proposed rule as part of the organization’s mission to create and increase opportunities for corn growers.

AUDIO: Interview with Kathy Bergren