Secretary Naig Announces More Than $2 Million for 38 E15 and Biodiesel Infrastructure Projects
Cost-share grants for projects in 24 counties expand consumer access to lower-cost, cleaner-burning renewable fuels across Iowa
DES MOINES, Iowa (Aug. 7, 2026) - Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced that the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) Board has approved more than $2 million in cost-share grants for 38 E15 and biodiesel infrastructure projects across Iowa. The grants, approved during the Board's July 29 meeting, include 24 ethanol projects totaling more than $1.43 million and 14 biodiesel projects totaling more than $604,000, for a combined investment of more than $2.03 million.
The grants will help Iowa fuel retailers install and upgrade infrastructure that expands consumer access to lower-cost, cleaner-burning renewable fuels while strengthening markets for Iowa's corn and soybean farmers.
“E15 consistently offers drivers a lower-cost option at the pump, and we've proven that when drivers are given a choice, they choose E15 because it saves them money. Each new fueling system upgraded or installed creates another location where Iowa drivers can save money when they fill up,” said Secretary Naig. “Ethanol and biodiesel also support Iowa farmers, strengthen rural jobs and communities, create additional demand for Iowa-grown corn and soybeans, and provide cleaner-burning fuel options. We'd love to see all Americans enjoy these savings and benefits year-round, which is why it's imperative that the U.S. Senate and U.S. House come together to send nationwide, year-round E15 legislation to the President's desk.”
The complete list of the approved projects may be found here.
Today, Iowa leads the nation in E15 (Unleaded 88) availability, with more than 1,100 fuel stations offering the lower-cost fuel blend. In 2025 alone, Iowa drivers saved more than $60 million by choosing E15 instead of E10, bringing total savings over the past three years to more than $126.5 million. Increased access to biodiesel has also strengthened demand for Iowa-grown soybeans, along with other oil and fat feedstocks, while providing consumers with a cleaner-burning renewable fuel option.
The Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program was established in 2006 to assist fuel retailers with the cost of installing and upgrading infrastructure needed to store and dispense higher blends of renewable fuels. Since the program's inception, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has invested more than $74 million through RFIP, leveraging more than $280 million in additional private investment to expand renewable fuels infrastructure across the state. Additional information about the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program may be found on IowaAgriculture.gov.