WASHINGTON, DC – Growth Energy, the coalition of U.S. ethanol supporters, issued the following statement after the President unveiled a report by his Biofuels Interagency Working Group, created last Spring to support the biofuels industry to create new jobs, greater economic vitality and increased energy independence.
“Growth Energy commends President Obama for recognizing the value of grain ethanol and the need to move forward with cellulosic ethanol to help our nation meet the goal of producing 36 billion gallons of renewable fuels by 2022. The President understands the need for enhanced support for the existing ethanol industry and greater investment to create jobs, improve our environment and increase our national security,” Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy, said.
“With the policies he’s laid out today, President Obama is adding muscle to the bone by investing in new technologies, reforming the loan guarantees for cellulosic ethanol to encourage the development of this cutting-edge fuel, and equipping government facilities with Flex Fuel Vehicles. Each of these steps help address many of the challenges and opportunities we have to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, create U.S. jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
The President issued his report shortly before the EPA announced details of the newly-expanded rule for the Renewable Fuels Standard.
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About Growth Energy
Growth Energy is a group committed to the promise of agriculture and growing America’s economy through cleaner, greener energy. Growth Energy members recognize America needs a new ethanol approach. Through smart policy reform and a proactive grassroots campaign, Growth energy promotes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding the use of ethanol in gasoline, decreasing our dependence on foreign oil, and creating American jobs at home. More information can be found at GrowthEnergy.org.