Virginia, Maryland awarded nearly $5 million in federal funds to install ethanol pumps

Governor Terry McAuliffe announced today that Virginia, in partnership with Maryland, was selected for a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant totaling nearly $5 million to install ethanol refueling infrastructure in Virginia. The states will work with private sector stakeholders to add at least 41 additional ethanol refueling stations and nearly 200 more pumps. The Virginia-Maryland collaboration was the only multi-state proposal selected for award. The $5 million in federal funds is being matched by $3 million from private sector partners.

Speaking about today’s announcement, Governor McAuliffe said, “This project will bring greater regional access to competitively priced, clean, and home-grown renewable fuel.  Increasing deployment of diverse fueling infrastructure gives more Virginians access to a broader range of fuel options, helping power our efforts to build a new Virginia economy.  I am excited about partnering with our neighbors from Maryland to develop this important infrastructure.”

“This is a great enhancement to the energy infrastructure in Virginia, which will help to grow and diversify a vital industry sector and provide alternative energy sources for Virginians,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Maurice Jones.  “This grant is great for Virginia’s economy and quality of life, and we look forward to working with our partners in Maryland.”

The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy will administer the public-private partnership and federal award on behalf of the two states with the assistance of Virginia Clean Cities at James Madison University. Partners in the program include two U.S. Department of Energy designated Clean Cities Coalitions in both states, as well as agricultural and energy offices of each state.  Other project partners include state grain associations and agricultural partners, as well as the significant contributions from private sector infrastructure partners such as Sheetz and Protec Fuel.

“This incredible project builds on progress in Virginia for a new consumer choice for a renewable fuel that can be used in hundreds of thousands of flex fuel vehicles on the roads locally, and new access to low blends safe in any 2000 or newer vehicle model,” said Alleyn Harned, Executive Director of Virginia Clean Cities.