What is the RFC?

Established in 2006 by P.A. 272, the Renewable Fuels Commission was the realization of a bipartisan effort to encourage the production and use of alternative fuels. Governor Granholm appointed 27 commissioners, representing a broad spectrum of interests in renewables – ethanol growers, agri-business, automobile manufacturers, alternative energy experts, and researchers from state universities. The commission is charged with developing a strategy for Michigan to lead the nation in alternative energy production and use. The RFC is also committed to improving communication between agriculture, government, and industry, and removing barriers to renewable fuel access for consumer and producers.

The main focus of the RFC is to look at renewable fuels as the center of a more sustainable lifestyle for Michigan. Our renewable fuel production can lessen dependence on imported petroleum, and the RFC’s goal is to develop production and promotion methods that are both sustainable and profitable. With such a changing biofuel landscape, Michigan’s renewable fuels policies must be adaptable. Using our diverse resources, our state can become home to various forms of alternative energy – wind, cellulosic ethanol, and new biomasses that our universities are researching heavily.

What is the status of biofuel development and production in Michigan?

The aim of Michigan renewable fuel policy is to diversify our fuel portfolio by developing sustainable energy sources and production methods. Michigan can remain on top of biofuel research and production while also developing cellulosic and other advanced fuels. With its natural resources and already established manufacturing sector, Michigan has a unique blend of resources that make achieving this goal possible. Governor Granholm’s plan to ensure that renewable energy and biofuels make up 25% of our energy needs by 2025 will bring tens of thousands of new jobs. Our natural assets, like vast farm land and forests, will “drive” us to a better economy and to a better environment.

30% of the 1000 ethanol pumps that the Governor set as a target are currently in use. Our universities lead the nation in biofuel research and development, making biofuel production more cost-efficient as well as searching for other biomass and feedstock to diversify our energy portfolio. The Midwest is the center of biofuel development and growth, and Michigan, with both its natural and capital resources, is poised to be the leader of these states. Michigan could help wean our nation off of our dependence on foreign oil while reducing harmful carbon emissions and creating thousands of jobs.

Who makes up the RFC?

As said before, 27 commissioners representing an array of parties involved with research, promotion, and implementation of renewables were selected. These members include:

• Director of the Department of Agriculture, who is the chair of the commission
• One member representing the Michigan Economic Development Corporation
• One member representing the Department of Labor and Economic Growth
• At least one representative of the corn production industry
• At least one representative of the soybean production industry
• A representative of state automotive fuel blenders
• A representative of state retail petroleum vendors
• A representative of state petroleum suppliers
• A representative of biodiesel producers
• A representative of ethanol producers
• A representative of environmental organizations
• Three representatives from the automobile manufacturing industry
• Three representatives of state colleges and universities engaged in fuel research
• Any other member the governor believes would contribute to reaching the commission’s goals

For a list of the commissioners and their specific interests and assignments, as well as contact information, please see the General Resources page.

Where can I find more information about renewable fuel vehicles and pumps?

The RFC’s Resources page provides a wealth of information regarding pump locations, RFV vendors, and the advantages of ethanol and biodiesel.

• List and Map of E85 Pumps in Michigan.
• National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition.