Ethanol and Year-Round E15
A top priority for Wisconsin corn growers continues to be securing permanent, year-round access to E15 fuel, a move seen as one of the fastest and most effective ways to increase demand for corn. Ethanol plays a crucial role in the state’s economy and agricultural sector with nine ethanol plants operating in the state, an estimated $4.2 billion of annual economic activity, almost 20,000 jobs supported and roughly one-third of Wisconsin’s corn crop used in ethanol production. By offering year-round access to E15 at the pump, consumers will experience cost savings at the pump compared to lower blends of ethanol, improve local prices for corn and provide immediate economic impact without relying on broader farm bill changes.
Urge Congress to pass H.R. 1346 – The Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.
Economic Impact of Ethanol in the United States
The ethanol industry has had a substantial impact on the economic vitality of rural communities, especially in America’s heartland, where the majority of the nation’s corn ethanol plants are located. Short transportation distances and local investment have led to most ethanol facilities being centrally located in the United States, providing more economic independence and energy security to our country while supporting local jobs.Ethanol production is a domestic energy industry, creating jobs and economic vitality all across America—especially in rural areas of the nation.
In 2024, the U.S. ethanol industry helped support nearly 314,000 direct and indirect jobs. Ethanol contributed more than $53 billion to the Gross Domestic Product and added $28 billion to household income. This generated more than $10 billion in tax revenue for federal, state and local governments.
Economic Impact of Ethanol in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has 9 ethanol plants, which generate:
- $4.2 billion economic output – $1.9 billion direct
- 19,080 jobs – 6,395 direct
- $982.6 million wages – $310.4 million direct
