September 9, 2007

Benefits of Ethanol Production Documented

Senators Ben Nelson and Richard Lugar announced publication of the latest edition of the Ethanol Fact Book in a press conference today at the Russell Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C. Nelson and Lugar are both members of the Clean Fuels Foundation EthanolAcross America Campaign Advisory Board.

Representatives from the National Farmers Union, automakers, biofuels technology developers and federal agencies participated in the news conference. Each organization contributed to the Ethanol Fact Book. The Nebraska Ethanol Board also contributed material and financial support to this new edition of the Ethanol Fact Book.

The Ethanol Fact Book contains statistics and information documenting the economic and environmental benefits of ethanol. According to the Fact Book, a typical 40 million gallon per year ethanol plant expands the local economic base by $110 million, generates $19.6 million in household income, increases tax revenue by $1.2 million, and creates nearly 700 permanent jobs.

“Ethanol production is a powerful economic catalyst that generates a host of benefits … rural economies have been revitalized,” said Todd Sneller, administrator of the Nebraska Ethanol Board.

“Workers across America, from the cities to rural communities, are experiencing strong demand for products and services that support ethanol production and use… Nebraska consumers are saving $10 million per month by displacing imported gasoline with renewable ethanol produced in the state,” Sneller said.

Print copies of the Ethanol Fact Book are available from the Nebraska Ethanol Board. An electronic version of the publication may be viewed on the Ethanol Board web site or at www.cleanfuelsdc.org.