Yesterday, the USDA announced more than $25 million in grants from the Inflation Reduction Act for the domestic biofuels industry, including a $260,000 grant for BP Kenosha Travel Plaza. The gas station will use the funding to install two dispensers of B20, four dispensers of E15 fuel, one biodiesel storage tank and one ethanol storage tank. 

Adding approximately $50,200 in value to a 1,000 acre farm, biodiesel is an important component to Wisconsin’s soybean industry. 

“We’re excited by the USDA’s investment in the station in Kenosha,” said Sara Stelter, Wisconsin Soybean Association president. “The ability for people to fill up with B20 at this station is a steppingstone to expanded use of biodiesel. We look forward to more opportunities to use our ag products in Wisconsin.” 

Adding 13% to the value of a bushel of soybeans, biodiesel is a renewable, biodegradable fuel that’s made from animal or vegetable fats, or recycled restaurant grease. With ultra-low sulfur content and 0% aromatics, a B20 blend reduces carbon monoxide emissions by 12% and total unburned hydrocarbons by 20%. Biodiesel is cleaner, better, now! 

The expansion project in Kenosha aims to support the sale of more than 1 million additional gallons of biodiesel per year.  

“By expanding the availability of homegrown biofuels, we are strengthening our energy independence, creating new market opportunities and revenue streams for American producers and bringing good-paying jobs and other economic benefits to rural and farm communities,” said United States Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. 

The Biden-Harris Administration championed the Inflation Reduction Act to help provide new funding and unprecedented incentives to expand clean energy, transform rural power production, create jobs and spur economic growth. It provides funding to USDA Rural Development to help eligible organizations invest in renewable energy infrastructure and zero-emission systems and make energy-efficiency improvements that will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.