ANKENY, IOWA (March 31, 2025) — A visit to Iowa from US Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins yielded positive comments for the future of biodiesel, according to the Iowa Biodiesel Board. Executive Director Grant Kimberley spoke with Sec Rollins about the urgency of the Trump administration finalizing a Renewable Fuel Standard proposal. The industry is asking for a Biomass-based Diesel volume of 5.25 billion gallons in 2026.
“Iowa’s biodiesel producers are at a standstill due to lingering regulatory delays on the RFS and the crucial biodiesel tax credit,” Kimberley said. “With instability in international markets, soybean farmers and biodiesel producers need a strong domestic market. Setting volumes at 5.25 billion gallons for 2026 will go a long way toward biodiesel production resuming at full speed.”
Sec Rollins committed to instructing her team to work with other agencies and parties on moving forward with increased volumes in the RFS volume proposal in the near future, Kimberley said.
At the same time, the board applauded the announcement from Rollins that funds for the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program would be released. During her visit to Iowa, she announced the release of $537 million in obligated funding for 543 projects across 29 states, reinforcing the administration’s vision of expanding American energy production.
“President Trump is honoring our commitment to America’s farmers, ranchers, and small businesses, especially here in Iowa where corn and soy growers are crucial to supporting ethanol and biodiesel production,” Sec Rollins said.
HBIIP provides cost-share grants to retailers working to expand access to biofuel blends, significantly increasing the sale and use of ethanol and biodiesel.
“This continued investment will help ensure a stronger future for American agriculture while providing drivers with more affordable, homegrown fuel options,” Kimberley said.
Kimberley reiterated that infrastructure investments must be matched with strong policies that support growth.
With US soybean crushers investing $6 billion in additional processing capacity, the industry is well-positioned to meet the 5.25-billion-gallon target. The US biodiesel and renewable diesel industry has a production capacity exceeding six billion gallons, with more than 4.75 billion gallons produced in 2024.
Kimberley thanked the state’s Congressional delegation, Gov Kim Reynolds, and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig for their work in hosting Rollins’ visit.
About the Iowa Biodiesel Board
The Iowa Biodiesel Board represents the biodiesel industry in Iowa, from the farmers who grow the feedstock, to production, through distribution to end users. Founded by the Iowa Soybean Association, IBB operates an independent organization and board. For more, visit IowaBiodiesel.org.
