Next Generation Biofuels Production Program
This program is designed to provide funding for the development and commercialization of the next generation of biofuels production in this country.  Conventional corn to ethanol and soy oil to biodiesel production facilities need to be supplemented with new and innovative technologies and feedstocks to economically meet future demands.  Additionally, these new processes will reduce energy requirements and the "carbon footprint" commonly associated with our current biofuels production facilities.  More

Building an Ethanol Plant in Illinois
Ethanol’s benefits are well documented: it is renewable, reduces dependence on foreign oil, supports the agricultural economy, provides a net reduction in greenhouse gases, and is cleaner-burning for carbon monoxide, particulates and air toxins compared to conventional gasoline.

Renewable Fuels Development Program
The Renewable Fuels Development Program (RFDP) was established in June of 2003 by Public Act 93-15 to provide grants for the construction of new biofuels production facilities in Illinois.  The program is specifically designed to increase biofuels (ethanol and biodiesel) production in Illinois.

Illinois E-85 Infrastructure Development Program
Through a grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (ICECF), Illinois is helping to build an infrastructure of E-85 refueling stations throughout the state.  E-85 is currently the main alternative to petroleum gasoline and is composed of 85 percent ethanol fuel and 15 percent petroleum gasoline.

Renewable Fuels Research, Development and Demonstration Program
Through its Renewable Fuels Research, Development and Demonstration Program, DCEO works with Illinois' industrial and agricultural organizations to actively promote and expand the use of biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, as clean, renewable transportation fuels.

What are Renewable Fuels?
Ethanol and biodiesel are currently the most popular renewable fuels in the U.S.  These fuels are derived from locally grown corn and soybeans and serve as alternatives to gasoline.  As gas prices continue to rise, demand for these renewable fuels increases.  Illinois is at the forefront of research and production in the field of renewable fuels.  The renewable fuels industry reduces our dependence on foreign oil, keeps energy dollars in the local economy, creates jobs, supports local corn and soybean prices, and contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment in Illinois.

Biofuels Resources
The renewable fuels industry is growing increasingly popular as the industry expands and new developments are made.  Click on the links below to access additional biofuels resources.