The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently awarded USD 19 million under the to enhance the availability of higher ethanol (like E15) and biodiesel blends (like B20) in 22 states. The HBIIP grants aid fueling station and distribution facility owners, including those in marine, rail, and home heating oil sectors, in expanding biofuel access. This funding assists in installing and upgrading infrastructure, such as fuel pumps, dispensers, and storage tanks, for biofuels.
Among the recipients, Casey’s General Stores and Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores have received funds for specific projects:
•Casey’s plans to install 456 E15 dispensers across 111 locations in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, and South Dakota
•Love’s aims to retrofit 704 E15 dispensers at 88 fueling stations in Arizona, Florida and Georgia
In June 2023, the USDA allocated USD 450 million for the HBIIP. The department continues to accept applications to further domestic biofuel access. With three quarterly application windows remaining, the program is set to conclude on September 30, 2024. The next application deadline is March 31, 2024.