MARCO ISLAND, Fla. – Today, Growth Energy, the leading voice of America’s biofuel industry, welcomed more than 500 industry leaders, speakers, and guests to the bioeconomy as it began its annual Executive Leadership Conference (ELC).
Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor kicked off the conference – a marquee event, which facilitates panel discussions and networking among biofuel industry allies – with a speech that highlighted Growth Energy’s efforts to open new opportunities for plant-based energy and climate solutions. Those include policy priorities, from the strengthening the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) to ensuring the success of America’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) goals.
“We have been fighting for the RFS and E15 for many years,” said Skor. “While government is never fast enough for business, we have come a long way. And we’re going to keep on battling until we win.
“But these fights are now only part of an even bigger task ahead of us. We are beginning a whole new chapter for the bioeconomy. And this is our time to shine.
“Looking ahead, we’re not just focused on moving product volume. We’re also focused on increasing the value of bioethanol and the growing array of bioproducts our members produce, in a supply chain that starts and stops on American soil.”
Prior to the official event kick off, dozens of participants attended the fifth annual Technical Forum on Wednesday, where panelists spoke on issues that affect plant and facility performance, such as carbon management, infrastructure, and fuel markets.
During the Executive Leadership Conference general session, industry experts will dive into the regulatory landscape, new tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, renewable identification numbers (RIN) dynamics, and more.
Speakers include Ambassador Doug McKalip, Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the United States Trade Representative. McKalip will discuss trade priorities and barriers with key markets.
Attendees also will hear from this year’s keynote speaker Justin Wren, MMA champion and founder of Fight for the Forgotten.