Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit Highlights Urgent Industry Needs and Opportunities

Today, the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) hosted the 2026 Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit. Attendees were treated to a packed day of keynote speakers and panel discussions, focusing on the future of biofuels. Here are the key takeaways from the event.

1. E15 Is an Urgent Priority

During his address, IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw emphasized the critical need for legislation to approve nationwide access to year-round E15, a higher blend of ethanol in fuels. He expressed concern over the lack of action from Congress, stating, “I fear if we don’t see Congress act on E15 in the month of February, I don’t think we’re going to see Congressional action for years to come.”

Shaw highlighted a potential Congressional vote in the U.S. House of Representatives that could address E15, but noted that distractions from the upcoming midterm elections could hinder progress. He pointed out that the transition from E10 to E15 could generate new demand for 2.1 billion bushels of corn, vital in combatting low corn prices and farmer attrition.

2. Waiting on RFS Rule

Discussions during the policy panel reiterated the need for E15 access, but also addressed the importance of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Scott Gerlt, chief economist of the American Soybean Association, criticized the blending requirements set by the EPA, noting the industry awaits clarity on how small-refinery exemptions may affect demand levels before the proposed rule for 2026 and 2027 is finalized.

3. The Search for Demand

During a panel discussion focused on new market opportunities for biofuels, participants explored several avenues for expanding demand. Panelists included Zoltán Szabó from the Climate Ethanol Alliance and Charlotte Lollar from Delta Air Lines, among others. Each addressed the barriers—regulatory, policy, and production—that must be overcome to make significant advancements in these markets.

Former USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer highlighted the necessity for increasing demand amidst improving crop yields, emphasizing the importance of identifying alternative markets for row crops.

4. Governor Kim Reynolds Recognized

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds received a warm welcome during the summit, underscoring her administration’s efforts to advance biofuels, including the E15 Access Standard legislation passed in 2022. Her remarks celebrated Iowa’s position as a national leader in renewable fuel production, crediting the collaboration between farmers, policymakers, and industry leaders for this success.

5. Former White House Staffer Offers Leadership Advice

Ari Fleischer, former White House press secretary, shared insights from his time under President George W. Bush. Reflecting on the calm demeanor within the White House during the crisis of September 11, 2001, Fleischer emphasized the importance of steadiness in leadership during turbulent times.

As the Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit concluded, it became clear that while opportunities abound for biofuels, collaboration and proactive legislative action are essential for addressing challenges in the industry and ensuring sustained growth.