California could soon be the final state to approve the sale of E-15 biofuel, which could be a “Golden” lining for this year’s bumper corn crop, ready for harvest when low market prices are a big concern for producers.
Golden State lawmakers reversed course on E-15 this month, sending a bill to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk to allow for sales to accomplish the Administration’s goal to reduce gas prices. According to AAA (on Sept. 9, 2025), a gallon of regular gas costs $4.63, which is more than a dollar higher than the U.S. national average.
While Gov. Newsom has yet to sign that bill, biofuel groups remain hopeful, adding that it would help absorb the surplus of low-cost corn about to hit the market.
“That adds another 500, almost 600 million gallons of new demand for American ethanol, when California adopts E15,” explained Troy Bredenkamp with the Renewable Fuels Association. “It’s 200 million bushels of new demand for new corn grind. So that is significant when you’re looking at one of the biggest crops, maybe the biggest crop in history, coming in this fall.”
Bredenkamp is also calling on Congress to settle the E-15 debate once and for all when it comes to year-round sales. Use of E-15 was previously banned during the summer months because it was believed to be more volatile in high temperatures, and there was worry it could contribute to smog and reduce air quality.
However, biofuel groups argue that science has disproved this theory. Arguing it is actually less volatile than standard gasoline.
Export volumes remain positive year-to-date, but weaker soybean loadings and slowing wheat movement hint at early bottlenecks in global demand or river logistics. Farmers should watch basis levels and freight conditions as export competition heats up.
October 28, 2025 10:58 AM
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Industry leaders representing more than 40 nations gathered to discuss the future of ethanol and other corn-based products.
October 27, 2025 12:44 PM
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A fast-moving series of trade signals from the White House and key partners is resetting the near-term outlook for U.S. agriculture.
October 27, 2025 11:41 AM
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Margin Protection and the new MCO add county-level margin tools — with earlier price discovery, input cost triggers, and high subsidy rates — to complement on-farm risk plans for 2026.
October 24, 2025 01:44 PM
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Set targets and use forwards, futures, or options to manage downside while preserving room for rallies.
October 24, 2025 11:05 AM
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Bioethanol continues to gain ground as the bridge fuel connecting agriculture, aviation, and maritime industries in the global shift toward lower-carbon energy.
October 23, 2025 10:14 AM
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Expanding bioethanol use strengthens rural economies, supports farm markets, and positions U.S. agriculture at the center of global low-carbon trade.
October 23, 2025 10:10 AM
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Corn and wheat inspections outpaced last year, but soybean movement remains seasonally active yet behind, keeping basis and freight dynamics in focus by corridor.
October 21, 2025 04:00 PM
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API said it stands ready to work with Congress to develop a balanced approach to E15 legislation that promotes fuel choice, supports investment certainty, and contributes to a stable and fair marketplace for American consumers.
October 21, 2025 12:39 PM
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