E15 captures over 27% share with strong growth in Iowa fuel market
E15 fuel has seen significant growth in Iowa, becoming a major part of the state’s gasoline market in 2025. According to official data, E15 accounted for more than 27% of total gasoline sales, showing a strong increase compared to the previous year.
“This new data from the Iowa Department of Revenue shows what is possible when E15 is given fair access to the marketplace and consumers are given a choice to purchase the fuel,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper.
“E15’s market share in Iowa has gone from just a sliver of the gasoline pool several years ago to more than a quarter of the total volume today,” said Cooper.
“Iowa drivers are clearly responding to E15’s lower price at the pump, its performance in their vehicles, and its positive impact on the environment. Iowa is again setting the pace when it comes to using homegrown renewable fuels, and we encourage other states to follow their lead,” said Cooper.
More than 410 million gallons of E15 were sold in 2025. This represents a 60% rise from 2024, when the fuel made up just over 17% of total gasoline sales. The increase highlights a growing shift toward renewable fuel options among consumers.
One of the key reasons for this growth is the implementation of the E15 Access Standard. This policy requires most fuel retailers in Iowa to offer E15 to customers by early 2026. As a result, sales increased by more than 150 million gallons after the policy was introduced.
The number of retail locations offering E15 has also expanded. Between 2024 and 2025, nearly 300 new stations began selling E15, marking a 40% increase. However, the rise in fuel sales was even faster than the growth in station numbers, showing strong consumer demand.
E15 is popular because it is often priced lower than regular gasoline and performs well in vehicles. It also supports environmental goals by reducing emissions and promoting cleaner energy use.
In addition to E15, continued use of E85 helped increase ethanol blending levels. In 2025, the average gallon of gasoline in Iowa contained about 11.1% ethanol.
Overall, Iowa has become a leading example of how renewable fuel policies can drive market growth. The state’s success shows how increased availability and consumer choice can boost the adoption of cleaner fuel options.
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