The U.S. ethanol industry has long been intertwined with the success of American agriculture, and according to Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) President and CEO Geoff Cooper, ethanol may once again play a crucial role in stabilizing the farm economy. Speaking at the RFA’s 30th annual National Ethanol Conference, Cooper emphasized that renewed policy support for ethanol could help struggling farmers, including those in the swine sector, navigate current economic challenges.
Ethanol’s Legacy in Agriculture
Cooper reflected on the industry’s evolution from the “gasohol” days of the Carter administration to the game-changing passage of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) in 2005. Since the adoption of the RFS, ethanol production has helped boost corn demand, lower fuel prices, and support rural communities—including many that depend on livestock production.
“For two decades, ethanol has strengthened American agriculture,” Cooper said. “It created a thriving market for corn, pulled family farmers from the brink of economic collapse, and ushered in an era of prosperity. But with farm income plummeting in recent years, agriculture is facing another crisis, and ethanol must once again be part of the solution.”
Policy Decisions Will Shape the Future
Looking ahead to 2025, the RFA remains optimistic about the ethanol industry’s potential to aid farmers—if the right policies are enacted. Among the most critical initiatives is securing year-round access to E15, which would expand ethanol demand and stabilize commodity markets.
Cooper stressed that much depends on the new Congress and administration’s stance on biofuels. The RFA is pushing for:
- Protecting and expanding the RFS to ensure continued demand for renewable fuels.
- Revisiting tailpipe emissions standards that promote electric vehicles at the expense of biofuels.
- Providing certainty on biofuel tax credits and trade policies to boost market stability.
What This Means for Swine Producers
For pork producers, ethanol’s success is directly linked to feed costs. The ethanol industry generates a steady supply of distillers’ dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a high-protein feed ingredient that supports swine nutrition. Expanding ethanol production could increase DDGS availability and potentially offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional feed ingredients.
“By strengthening renewable fuel policies, we don’t just enhance energy security—we support the very backbone of rural America, including the livestock industry,” Cooper stated.
With rising input costs and financial uncertainty looming over agriculture, many in the industry will be watching closely to see whether Washington renews its commitment to ethanol—potentially providing a much-needed lifeline to farmers and swine producers alike.
