Celebrating Two Decades of Renewable Fuel Standard Achievements in the U.S.

Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Renewable Fuel Standard

On August 8, 2025, Growth Energy, a prominent advocate for the biofuel industry in the United States, is proudly celebrating the two-decade milestone of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). This pivotal piece of legislation has been instrumental in opening the energy market to competition from domestic biofuels sourced from U.S. agricultural crops. As a testament to its success, leaders from across America's heartland joined this momentous occasion, reflecting on how the RFS has become a cornerstone in enhancing U.S. energy security, reducing emissions, and fortifying the farming sector.

The inception of the RFS in August 2005 has led to impressive figures, with American biorefineries generating over 250 billion gallons of ethanol. This remarkable production has enabled ethanol plants to purchase around 92.7 billion bushels of corn, translating to over $425 billion in revenue for American farmers. Such significant economic contributions have secured widespread bipartisan support for the program.

Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, emphasized the RFS's importance, stating, "The RFS is the foundation of America's bioeconomy. It supports hundreds of thousands of rural jobs and shields consumers from the volatility of global oil prices. Currently, over 10% of the nation’s fuel supply is derived from renewable sources like ethanol, translating to considerable savings for consumers. As the U.S. EPA looks to increase biofuel blending to the highest levels seen in the program's history, the potential benefits for American motorists and farmers are unprecedented."

Farmers themselves have underscored the critical impact of the RFS. Bill Couser, an Iowa farmer, shared how the RFS has provided vital support for surplus grains, enabling his family farm to thrive despite rising input costs and uncertain export conditions. Kelly Nieuwenhuis, another farmer from northwest Iowa, highlighted that net farm income has more than doubled since the RFS's enactment, underscoring its role as a crucial component of the agricultural supply chain.

Lawmakers have also lauded the RFS's accomplishments. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) affirmed the RFS's role in producing fuels that mitigate emissions and enhance energy independence. She stressed the ongoing bipartisan initiative to promote the year-round sale of E15, a fuel blend that further utilizes American-grown biofuels.

Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) echoed similar sentiments, stating how the RFS benefits heartland communities by adding value to crops and securing energy independence while ensuring consumers have access to cleaner, cheaper fuel options. Additionally, Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) highlighted Nebraska's status as a major ethanol producer, attributing much of this success to the RFS's foundation.

Congress has seen consistent support for renewable fuels, with Representatives like Nikki Budzinski (D-Ill.) and Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) committing to continue championing biofuels. They recognize the RFS as a vital tool that has fostered opportunities for farmers and lowered costs at the pump for consumers.

The overall impact of the RFS cannot be overstated. In its two decades, it has been an essential policy tool fostering consumer access to renewable fuels while bolstering the agricultural economy. As the nation reflects on the accomplishments of the RFS, there lies a shared commitment amongst stakeholders to ensure that this success story continues, propelling American biofuels into an even more prominent role in future energy strategies.

As Growth Energy celebrates these milestones, the focus now shifts to maintaining momentum moving forward. The ongoing advocacy for policies that support biofuel blending and production will ensure that the RFS retains its place at the forefront of America’s journey towards sustainable energy independence.

To learn more about how the RFS reflects the priorities of rural America and its significance in the biofuel industry, please visit Growth Energy's official website.