WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Growth Energy—the leading voice of America’s biofuel industry—celebrated another successful round of applications for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP). During the most recent application window, Growth Energy helped write grant applications for 39 different retailers comprising 198 stores—51 percent of all submissions. The effort could result in more than 1,200 new E15 dispensers, nearly 450 new E85 dispensers, and nearly 500 new dispensers for biodiesel blends.
“Working hand in hand with fuel retailers has always been a priority for Growth Energy, and we are proud to have supported more than half of all Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program applications this round,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “These partnerships play a key role in expanding access to low-cost, low-carbon options like E15. And consumer demand continues to break records in those states that report sales data. In 2023 alone, E15 sales surged 47 percent in Iowa and 21 percent in Minnesota, while sales of E85 in California jumped more than 14 percent.”
Since 2020, Growth Energy has helped retailers across the country apply for $115 million in federal, state, and private grants to expand access to higher biofuel blends. Retailers will invest an additional $102 million for a total infrastructure investment of $217 million. During the third application window under HBIIP, which ran from January 1, 2024 through March 31, 2024, Growth Energy ramped up outreach via partnerships with Pearson Fuels in California, the Iowa Corn Growers Association, and the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association.
USDA will offer two more rounds of funding opportunities this year with an option for a contingency round if there are leftover funds. Retailers interested in learning more or getting help with higher blends infrastructure grants are encouraged to contact Growth Energy’s Market Development team at MarketDevelopment@growthenergy.org. Retailers can learn more about Growth Energy at the Retailer and Supplier Hub.