Governor Walz emphasized the environmental and economic benefits of increasing biofuel availability in Minnesota. “Investing in homegrown biofuels helps us lower emissions and save drivers money, while giving a boost to Minnesota’s agriculture and renewable energy sectors,” he stated. The funding is designed to help gas stations across the state invest in the necessary infrastructure to expand their biofuel offerings, benefiting farmers, business owners, and consumers alike.
The initiative will be facilitated through the MDA’s Biofuels Infrastructure Grant Program, targeting service stations with no more than 10 petroleum dispensing sites in Minnesota. The grant program is funded through a legislative appropriation from the MDA’s Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Program, with additional support from Minnesota Corn.
Grant Details and Eligibility
The Biofuels Infrastructure Grant Program allows eligible gas stations to request between $5,000 and $199,000 per project, provided they commit at least 35% of the total project cost as a cash match. The funds can be used for purchasing and installing equipment certified for E25 or higher blends, including retail petroleum dispensers, fuel storage tanks, and other necessary infrastructure for dispensing biofuels.
“Minnesota’s service stations play a fundamental role in connecting consumers with homegrown biofuels that provide drivers with cleaner, lower-cost fuel alternatives,” said Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. “Thanks to the support of the Minnesota Legislature and Minnesota Corn, we can continue to build out the infrastructure to meet the growing demand for higher blend motor fuels and boost our ag economy.”
The grants will only cover costs incurred after the grant contract has been signed, which is expected to occur in early 2025. To qualify, applicants must be currently operating and dispensing fuel at the time of application; new stations under construction or those planned for future construction are not eligible.
Application Process and Deadlines
Interested applicants must submit their applications through the MDA’s online portal by 4 p.m. on Thursday, October 30, 2024. Detailed eligibility requirements and application guidelines are available on the AGRI Biofuels Infrastructure Grant webpage.
The AGRI Program, which administers grants to farmers, agribusinesses, schools, and other entities, plays a critical role in advancing Minnesota’s agricultural and renewable energy sectors. By supporting projects that expand access to higher blend biofuels, the state aims to further reduce emissions and promote sustainable energy solutions.
Minnesota’s Commitment to Renewable Energy
Governor Walz’s announcement reinforces Minnesota’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable agricultural practices. By expanding access to biofuels, the state not only supports its farmers but also contributes to environmental goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The grants will help Minnesota’s service stations adapt to the increasing demand for cleaner, more affordable fuel alternatives, aligning with the state’s broader environmental and economic objectives.
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