West Des Moines: Sales of E15 ethanol-blended fuel in Iowa remained strong in August, with fuel terminals distributing more than 46 million gallons, putting the blend on track to overtake E10 as the state’s top-selling fuel in 2026, according to a press release.
According to monthly fuel tax data released by the Iowa Department of Revenue, August E15 sales were the second-highest on record, just below the record 48 million gallons sold in May.
The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) expects E15 to surpass E10 in total sales this year, reflecting growing demand for higher ethanol blends among motorists.
“It will be close, but E15 is on track to become Iowa’s top-selling fuel for 2026,” said Monte Shaw, executive director of IRFA.
“With 46 million gallons in August, Iowa drivers are sending a clear message: they want E15. As more Iowa retailers have given drivers the chance to buy E15, the numbers are impossible to ignore,” he said.
E15 boosts ethanol demand
E15 contains up to 15% ethanol, compared with 10% in conventional E10 petrol. The blend has recorded strong sales as more retailers make it available to consumers.
E15 typically costs consumers 15 cents or more per gallon less than E10, while also increasing demand for corn-based ethanol produced in Iowa.
The growing use of E15 could therefore provide additional demand for Iowa-grown corn and domestic ethanol, while reducing reliance on imported fuel.
“Iowa has shown what happens when drivers have a choice. They choose E15, they save money, and they support American-made fuel,” Shaw said.
IRFA said it will continue advocating for year-round, nationwide E15 availability, arguing that wider access would provide consumers with greater fuel choice while supporting the US renewable fuels industry.
The strong August sales indicate that E15 is gaining ground in Iowa and could become the state’s leading fuel by volume by the end of 2026.
