EPIC periodically responds to specifics in the industry through posting statements for clarification and to provide further information.

Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC) Responds to KARE-11 Series on Ethanol

(11/7/2007) In a state that is expected to produce one billion gallons of ethanol in 2008, KARE-11 apparently neglected to include an industry response to the warmed-over criticism in its report, “Ethanol: Fuel of the Future?” If the station is going to provide a platform for university researchers and their position papers, they could at the very least provide an up-to-date comment from Minnesota’s growing ethanol community, rather than relying on a speech by Governor Pawlenty from early August. Ethanol is just one element in our drive to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. It is not a magic bullet. It is an important aspect of a multi-prong approach to our energy needs. Today, we have the opportunity to begin the process of taking control of our energy destiny. Unlike other alternatives that are years from reaching state-of-the-art technology, ethanol-enriched fuel is available not only throughout the state of Minnesota, but in almost every state across our country. E10 can be used in our current fueling dispensing infrastructure and E85 infrastructure has also been approved which will spur the growth of the fuel blend. There are approximately 1,300 E85 stations with more than 300 in Minnesota and by the end of next year, E85 availability will more than double. On the issue of subsidies, federal and state government incentives have provided a tremendous boost in helping grow the ethanol industry. But this is not a unique phenomenon, nor as one critic put it, “a reflection of ethanol’s relative inefficiency.” Government has played a role throughout history in the business sector. Government-sponsored research and development benefits consumers in the development of new drugs and medical technology. Even NASA research finds its way into many consumer products like infant formula, scratch-resistant eyeglass lenses, smoke detectors, and home insulation. The ethanol industry, as with many businesses, is evolving and the focus is more and more on efficiency. We’re focused on being good stewards of the environment. New technology allows plants to operate cleaner, and design improvements make them easier to maintain. The growth of the ethanol industry in Minnesota should be a source of pride to the state’s residents. With winter just around the corner, KARE-11 should provide its viewers with an in-depth look on the impact of oil prices that are now approaching $100.00 a barrel. That is an issue that deserves “extra” attention.

Ethanol Water Facts

(10/24/2007) All energy sources require water, including ethanol production. Millions of dollars are going into research and development to reduce the use of water both in agriculture and ethanol production. But let’s put the current water needs of the ethanol industry into perspective of our everyday lives. Check out these interesting water facts.

EPIC Responds to Schwan Food Co. Hike of Pizza Prices

(8/3/2007) "The ethanol industry has become a convenient scapegoat for corporate America to justify price increases to maintain profits,” said Tom Slunecka, the executive director of the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC). “The debate over rising food prices has bordered on the ludicrous; the facts are conveniently omitted from this argument."