Iowa Dominates U.S. Ethanol Production
It’s not a surprise that Iowa leads the nation in ethanol production. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports the state operates 42 ethanol plants, producing 5,039 million gallons in 2024. That total makes Iowa the undisputed leader in the renewable fuels market.
The state’s robust ethanol sector has long been tied to its powerful corn industry, which supplies the feedstock for the vast majority of ethanol production.
Ethanol in Neighboring States
While Oklahoma has no ethanol plants, several neighboring states play key roles in U.S. production.
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Kansas: 12 plants, producing 642 million gallons annually.
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Texas: 4 plants, with a capacity of 430 million gallons.
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Nebraska: 24 plants, generating 2,404 million gallons.
South Dakota and North Dakota also maintain significant production:
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South Dakota: 16 plants, 1,517 million gallons.
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North Dakota: 5 plants, 548 million gallons.
Midwest Leaders in Ethanol
Other Midwestern states continue to support America’s renewable fuel supply chain.
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Minnesota: 18 plants, 1,457 million gallons.
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Wisconsin: 9 plants, 681 million gallons.
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Missouri: 6 plants, 338 million gallons.
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Illinois: 14 plants, 1,924 million gallons.
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Indiana: 15 plants, 1,495 million gallons.
Colorado contributes with 3 plants producing 166 million gallons annually.
West Coast Contributions
Although smaller in scale, the western U.S. also participates in ethanol production.
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California: 3 plants.
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Oregon: 1 plant.
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Idaho: 1 plant.
Ethanol’s Role in the U.S. Energy Economy
Ethanol remains a cornerstone of the U.S. renewable fuels policy. The industry supports rural economies, reduces dependence on imported oil, and contributes to lower carbon emissions in transportation. As data centers and industry drive higher energy demands, ethanol and other renewable resources are expected to remain key in discussions about America’s energy future.