USDA Hoping To Turn Ethanol Industry Around

According to KFYR-TV-North Dakota's ethanol industry will be receiving some much-needed help.

The USDA recently unveiled an initiative aimed at renewable fuels, which includes $100 million in grants for bio-fuel infrastructure.

At times, the ethanol industry was receiving mixed messages. Is the White House with or against them? One agency is trying to prioritize ethanol, and another fighting litigation for years. The courts recently sided with producers, but they continue to struggle.

As some ethanol plants are closing, around the country, the USDA is trying to turn their luck around. Calling for ethanol blends of 15% of transportation fuels in 2030 and 30% by 2050.

"Having that come from Secretary Purdue was great, because it shows the administrations recognition of the impact the ethanol industry has on the ag economy,” ND Ethanol Council’s Deana Wiese said.

And it comes at a time of healing between the industry and the administration. Ethanol producers have been fighting years' worth of lawsuits over production waivers, which allow smaller companies to not make ethanol.