Grants Launched in North Dakota for Ethanol Plant Projects

By Scout Nelson

North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring has announced that state funding is now available for ethanol facilities seeking to make improvements through the Low Carbon Fuels Program. The program is designed to support eligible capital projects that improve efficiency and lower the carbon intensity of ethanol production.

According to Goehring, the North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) is inviting grant proposals from ethanol production facilities. Eligible projects include building new infrastructure or upgrading current systems.

Specific examples include carbon dioxide capture and storage, beneficial uses of carbon dioxide, improvements in energy efficiency, and projects that increase ethanol yield. These areas directly align with the state’s goal of promoting cleaner energy solutions and advancing agricultural innovation.

Grant awards are capped at $3 million per biennium, ensuring multiple facilities across the state have the chance to participate. To qualify, applicants must provide a 50 percent match of the total project cost, which means facilities are expected to invest alongside state funding. This approach strengthens commitment to the projects and ensures meaningful results for both industry and the environment.

The initiative reflects North Dakota’s broader vision of supporting agriculture and renewable energy while addressing environmental concerns. By reducing carbon intensity and improving production efficiency, ethanol facilities can strengthen their role in a low-carbon economy and maintain competitiveness in the market.

Goehring emphasized that the program is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to combine economic growth with environmental responsibility. He noted that supporting ethanol producers through targeted grants not only benefits the facilities but also helps farmers, rural communities, and consumers who rely on affordable energy.

Complete details on how to apply for funds, including eligibility requirements and deadlines, are available on the NDDA website at www.ndda.nd.gov/low-carbon-fuels-program.

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