Ethanol Facts: Economic & Energy Security Benefits

The U.S. currently imports 62% of its petroleum. That figure is expected to rise to 77% by 2025—unless America gets more serious about finding domestic sources of energy.

In addition to the cost of purchasing imported oil, the U.S. spends about $50 billion each year for military protection of Middle East oil supplies—and billions more in government subsidies to the oil industry.

Making ethanol a more important part of our nation’s energy supply is clearly in our best interests—both economically and in terms of energy security. Ethanol use already reduces the U.S. trade deficit by $2 billion each year—and the jobs created by this homegrown energy industry are generating tax dollars and economic vitality.

Additionally, the increased use of ethanol will help reduce the need for agricultural subsidies—and America’s energy dollars will go to domestic producers rather than to members of the foreign oil cartels.

There is no question: Ethanol helps put more control in America’s hands—and makes us less susceptible to the whims and politics of overseas oil producing countries.