Published: May 10, 2008 06:36 pm            

Nearly $1 million available for E85 pumps

Cities, commercial refueling facilities, counties or townships eligible to apply

TERRE HAUTE — The Indiana State Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the E85 Fueling Station Grant Program.

Nearly $1 million in state money is available to assist in the installation of E85 pumps, and funds available have increased from a maximum of $5,000 to $20,000 per pump location. Cities and towns are now eligible to apply, as well as commercial refueling facilities, counties or townships.

“As we travel around the state, we hear from many people who want E85 pumps in their communities,” said Indiana Agriculture Director Andy Miller. “Now that cities, towns and retailers are eligible to apply for this E85 grant, I encourage them to take advantage of this opportunity.”

The E85 Fueling Station Grant Program is one of many bioenergy initiatives started under the leadership of Gov. Mitch Daniels. E85 pumps have increased from zero in 2005 to more than 100 pumps across the state today. E85 is a fuel blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Ethanol raises the oxygen content of gasoline to help lessen air emissions. Only flex-fuel vehicles can operate on E85, but all vehicles can run on up to a 10 percent blend of ethanol and gasoline.

“Central Indiana Clean Cities Alliance is supportive of the state’s initiatives for bioenergy and has helped multiple fuel retailers obtain grants for biofuels infrastructure,” said Kellie Walsh, executive director of the Central Indiana Clean Cities Alliance. “We welcome the opportunity to reach out to more communities.”

To be eligible for funding, the grant application must be approved before the retailer begins work on the pump installation or conversion. Members of Central Indiana Clean Cities Alliance or South Shore Clean Cities Inc. can contact those organizations for assistance preparing a grant application. More information on qualifications and an application can be found at www.in.gov/isda.

        

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