NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — U.S. ethanol demand reached a new milestone in October, as ethanol accounted for 11.06 percent of the nation’s gasoline supply — the first monthly blend rate above 11 percent on record, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The record underscores growing fuel demand for ethanol and challenges long-standing assumptions that blending cannot exceed 10 percent.
The Renewable Fuels Association says expanded availability of E15 and flex fuels such as E85 is driving the increase. The 12-month average blend rate also reached a record 10.48 percent in October, signaling sustained growth rather than a one-month anomaly. Iowa continues to lead adoption, with E15 representing roughly 25 percent of gasoline sales in November — nearly double early-2025 levels — while California’s recent E15 approval opens a major new market.
RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper credits summer emergency fuel waivers and lower pump prices for accelerating adoption, while emphasizing the need for permanent year-round E15 approval and strong EPA renewable fuel standards. At an 11 percent blend rate, annual ethanol use would reach roughly 15 billion gallons.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Higher ethanol blend rates translate directly into stronger, more durable corn demand if regulatory momentum holds.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
Chris Bliley with Growth Energy discusses ongoing concerns about U.S. ethanol exports and the expansion of market access promised under the Phase One deal between the U.S. and China.
October 30, 2025 02:30 PM
·
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) shares his perspective on the U.S.-China trade developments and their potential impact on American producers, farmers, and ranchers.
October 30, 2025 12:56 PM
·
Rich Nelson, a commodity broker for Allendale Inc., joins us to break down what the U.S.-China trade agreement means for the ag economy.
October 30, 2025 12:04 PM
·
The U.S.-China summit raises hopes for stronger exports and reduced barriers, but U.S. ag players should remain strategically cautious until concrete volumes and certifications materialize.
October 30, 2025 10:37 AM
·
Global agriculture is stabilizing after years of price swings, with flat to modestly rising returns expected as productivity offsets slower demand growth.
October 29, 2025 03:35 PM
·
Expect incremental near-term lift for feed grains, proteins, and ethanol as tariff cuts and smoother approvals translate into real orders.
October 29, 2025 03:04 PM
·
