By Scout Nelson
Kansas Corn’s long-term effort to expand ethanol use in California has reached an important milestone with Pearson Fuels announcing the opening of its 450th E85 station in the state. This expansion strengthens demand for renewable, low-carbon fuel and reflects the success of a partnership supported by corn checkoff programs in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and Iowa.
Kansas Corn leaders explain that California represents a major market for ethanol, and the collaboration with Pearson Fuels continues to produce strong results. One leader state, “The Kansas Corn Commission is part of a coalition that supports the efforts of Pearson Fuels to build ethanol demand, and it is paying off for Kansas corn and ethanol producers.” The leader notes that one station alone has sold more than 90,000 gallons of E85 per month, creating meaningful demand for ethanol sourced from the Midwest.
Another commissioner highlights the direct benefit to the state’s renewable fuel sector, sharing, “Our top priority is market development for our corn crop… This steady increase in ethanol demand in the California market has a direct impact on our Kansas farmers and ethanol producers.” California currently purchases more than one-third of all ethanol produced in Kansas.
Pearson Fuels’ 450th station, located in Fresno, marks another step toward wider access to E85, which provides lower emissions and reduced fuel costs for drivers. Company leadership explains that demand is rising quickly, saying, “Hitting 450 stations is a testament to how rapidly drivers have embraced a lower-carbon, cost-saving, higher-octane alternative to gasoline.” The company expects to reach 500 stations by next year.
E85, containing up to 85 percent of ethanol, can lower greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 80 percent when paired with renewable components. Pearson Fuels is further improving environmental performance by replacing the gasoline portion of E85 with renewable naphtha, supporting the development of fully renewable fuel blends.
With growing demand across California, more drivers are choosing E85 for affordability and environmental benefits. Pearson Fuels reports that prices are often $1.50 per gallon lower than gasoline, making the fuel an appealing option.
Photo Credit: kansas-corn
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Corn, Energy