The Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Program (RFIP) is designed to increase availability of high ethanol blends to motorists in Nebraska. RFIP is administered by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) in partnership with Green Plains, Inc. (GP). Representatives from the Nebraska Corn Board, the Nebraska Ethanol Board and Renewable Fuels Nebraska serve on an advisory group. Grant funds from the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) will be awarded to selected retail fueling stations to reimburse the cost of installing or converting qualified equipment to encourage expanded use of higher blends of ethanol in Nebraska.
On May 8, 2019, Governor Pete Rickets signed into law Legislative Bill 585 and created the Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Program. The terms of RFIP have been established through LB 585 and the 2020 grant agreement between NDEE/GP and NET. Retailers awarded grants must enter into a Retailer Agreement setting the requirements for reimbursement of eligible costs related to converting or installing qualified fuel dispensers and tanks upon completion of upgrades. The Retailer Agreement will include a 3-year or 5-year commitment to sell ethanol fuels, to promote ethanol blends on station signage, and to provide periodic reports regarding volumes and prices of ethanol blends sold. Retailers also must comply with all other federal, state, and local regulations applicable to the construction and operation of the project.
Awarded projects must satisfy the following requirements to receive grant funds for reimbursement of eligible project costs:
- Retailer/Sub-Grantee Agreement signed by retailer and RFIP;
- Completed Project Reimbursement Request Form with receipts and paid invoices;
- Evidence of final inspection & certification by the State Fire Marshal on the dispenser/tank; and
- Photographs of the final installation must be included in the equipment reimbursement request.
RFIP program instructions DO NOT ALLOW payment of costs for equipment purchased or infrastructure constructed PRIOR TO APPROVAL of grant award. |