April 24, 2014

A new footprint study by Fuels America finds that the renewable fuels industry contributes $11.7 billion to Minnesota's economy annually.

The study, which was prepared by John Dunham & Associates, Inc of New York for Fuels America, includes direct and induced economic output from the renewable energy industry as well as economic contributions from the industry's suppliers.

The renewable energy industry, as defined by the study, includes conventional and cellulosic ethanol, biodiesel and advanced biofuels.

According to the study, the renewable energy industry annually supports 48,506 jobs, generates $3 billion in wages and contributes $708.2 million and $401.9 million in federal and state taxes respectively.

The study also examines the economic contribution and job creation from the industry in individual congressional districts within the state. Congressional district 7, which encompasses most of western Minnesota, has the most number of jobs related to the renewable energy industry.

The Fuels America study can be found here.