Growth Energy honors Ernst with America's Fuel Award

Sen. Joni Ernst recognized for her support of the biofuels industry

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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On February 12, the biofuels industry group Growth Energy honored Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, with the distinguished America's Fuel Award at their 17th annual Executive Leadership Conference.

Why it matters

As a senator from Iowa, a major corn and ethanol producing state, Ernst has been a vocal supporter of the biofuels industry and the Renewable Fuel Standard. This award recognizes her efforts to promote the use of renewable fuels like ethanol.

The details

The America's Fuel Award is Growth Energy's highest honor, given to individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing biofuels. Ernst has been a champion for the biofuels industry, working to protect the Renewable Fuel Standard and promote the use of homegrown fuels.

  • The award was presented on February 12, 2026 at Growth Energy's 17th annual Executive Leadership Conference.
  • The North American Biocarbon Conference, co-located with the International Biomass Conference & Expo, will take place from March 31 to April 2, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

The players

Growth Energy

A biofuels industry group that represents producers and supporters of ethanol and other renewable fuels.

Sen. Joni Ernst

A Republican senator from Iowa who has been a vocal supporter of the biofuels industry and the Renewable Fuel Standard.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This award highlights the important role that political leaders like Sen. Ernst play in supporting the biofuels industry, which is a key part of the renewable energy and climate change mitigation efforts in the United States.