What's Happening?
GROWMARK, an agricultural cooperative, has listed its wholesale price for E85 fuel at $1.20 per gallon at the Des Moines Terminal, with an ethanol content of 70%. This information was released as part of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association's (IRFA) E85 Wholesale
Price Listing Program on November 10, 2026. The IRFA program provides a weekly overview of E85 prices from various suppliers across Iowa. E85 is defined in Iowa law as a fuel blend containing between 70 and 85 percent ethanol, varying seasonally. Iowa is a leading state in renewable fuels production, boasting 42 ethanol refineries with an annual capacity exceeding 5 billion gallons, alongside 8 biodiesel facilities capable of producing 408 million gallons annually. The IRFA publishes these wholesale prices every Tuesday, requiring suppliers to have publicly posted prices available to any retailer or supplier without gallonage restrictions to be eligible for listing.
Why It's Important?
GROWMARK's participation in the IRFA's E85 price listing highlights the ongoing activity and transparency within Iowa's renewable fuels market. The listed price of E85 from GROWMARK, alongside other suppliers, provides crucial market data for retailers and consumers, influencing purchasing decisions and potentially impacting the adoption of ethanol-blended fuels. As Iowa leads the nation in renewable fuel production, the pricing and availability of E85 are significant for the state's agricultural sector, which supplies the corn used for ethanol production. Stable and competitive E85 prices can support the economic viability of ethanol refineries and biodiesel facilities, contributing to rural economies and energy independence. The transparency fostered by the IRFA's program helps ensure a fair and competitive market for renewable fuels, benefiting both producers and consumers.
What's Next?
The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association will continue to publish wholesale E85 prices weekly, providing ongoing market transparency. Future price listings from GROWMARK and other suppliers will be closely watched as they reflect market dynamics, supply and demand fluctuations, and potential shifts in ethanol production costs. Retailers will use this information to adjust their pricing strategies for E85 at the pump, which could influence consumer choices. The continued growth and stability of Iowa's renewable fuels industry will depend on sustained demand for E85 and other biofuels, supported by competitive pricing and favorable market conditions. Policy decisions at both state and federal levels regarding renewable fuel standards and incentives could also impact the future landscape of E85 pricing and availability.
Beyond the Headlines
The consistent reporting of E85 wholesale prices, including GROWMARK's contribution, underscores a broader commitment to renewable energy sources in the U.S., particularly in agricultural states like Iowa. This initiative not only promotes market transparency but also reinforces the role of biofuels in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating environmental impacts. The competitive pricing of E85, as reflected in these listings, is crucial for its widespread adoption, challenging the dominance of traditional gasoline. Furthermore, the robust infrastructure of ethanol and biodiesel production in Iowa signifies a significant investment in sustainable energy, creating jobs and fostering innovation in agricultural technology. The long-term implications include a potential shift in consumer preferences towards more environmentally friendly fuel options, driven by both economic incentives and growing environmental awareness.
