By Andi Anderson

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) is proud to announce the relaunch of its On-Farm Biodiesel Credit Program, offering Iowa farmers the opportunity to receive up to 50 cents per gallon when purchasing biodiesel blends for their farm tanks.

Lisa Coffelt, Marketing Director at IRFA, highlighted the significance of the program in encouraging farmers to explore higher blends of biodiesel, such as B20. She emphasized the growing willingness of farmers to adopt these blends, showcasing the increasing on-farm use of B20, which has multiplied fivefold according to the 2023 Retailers Motor Fuel Gallons Report.

Partnerships with the Iowa Soybean Association and Iowa Biodiesel Board, along with contributions from biodiesel producers including Western Iowa Energy, Western Dubuque Biodiesel, and Chevron Renewable Energy Group, have enabled the program to offer valuable incentives to farmers. IRFA itself provides funding and oversees the management of the program.

Coffelt underlined the benefits of biodiesel, noting its compatibility with engines from leading manufacturers such as John Deere and CASE IH. She encouraged both previous credit recipients and fuel suppliers to promote participation in the program, highlighting its advantages for saving money, preserving the environment, and supporting locally sourced energy.

Darwin Gordon, an Iowa farmer and past recipient of the credit, attested to the success of the program, expressing satisfaction with the performance of biodiesel blends in various farm equipment. He emphasized the importance of supporting the domestic biodiesel industry.

Under the program, farmers can earn 25 cents per gallon for utilizing B11 and 50 cents per gallon for using B20, with a maximum credit of $500. Funding is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligibility criteria and application procedures can be found on the IRFA website.

Through initiatives like the On-Farm Biodiesel Credit Program, IRFA is committed to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and fostering the growth of the biodiesel industry in Iowa.

For more information and to apply, visit https://iowarfa.org/iowa-on-farm-biodiesel-credit-program/.

Photo Credit: vista-mipan