Episode 263: Biofuels and the Giant Corn Crop

The battle for year round E15 is not new, but in the last several weeks, it has become increasingly urgent. Though lawmakers have expressed support again and again for expanded rules that would create additional demand for ethanol around the country, farmers and their advocates continue to wait for changes, and now with a gigantic corn crop about to flood the market, and hamstring prices, any bit of extra demand could provide relief.

To help us understand where the E15 story currently stands, DTN Environmental Editor Todd Neeley joins us today with analysis of the latest announcements. The conversation continues with updates on the Small Refinery Exemption issue — a longer range issue that’s been lingering at the EPA and in the courts since the first Trump administration. 

Then we’ll get updates on the latest RFS volume announcements and what’s happening on the trade front as the U.S. disputes Brazilian biofuel tariff levels. We’ll also talk through the latest news on the 45Z tax credit, a recent plant acquisition, and what might be ahead as more federal uncertainty — and a potential government shutdown — loom.