DEWITT – The Clean Energy Coalition is now offering incentives to cover up to $5,000 of the cost to install or upgrade an existing gas pump capable of dispensing E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Upgrading the pumps also would qualify a station owner to take advantage of significant tax credits from the federal government.
“The Clean Energy Coalition is dedicated to increasing the number of E85 pumps in Michigan,” said Sean Reed, CEC executive director. “Through a grant from the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth, we are providing infrastructure incentives for E85.”
In addition to the CEC grant, $145,000 of which came from the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth and $20,000 from the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan, gas station owners can also apply for federal and state tax credits that significantly reduce the installation and qualified equipment costs.
“Stations may be eligible for up to an additional $50,000 to be applied towards installation costs from other state and federal incentives,” said Reed. “The federal government is offering a 50 percent tax credit of up to $50,000 and the Michigan Department of Treasury is offering a 30 percent tax credit up to $20,000.”
The DeLEG Energy Office is also offering a $1,500 incentive to assist with the cost of designing and installing a highway exit sign that promotes the E85 pump, as well as paying the first year’s annual fee.
In addition to grants, there are also marketing materials available to educate consumers about ethanol. Working cooperatively with the DeLEG and the CMPM, the CEC is also offering in-store educational posters, pump wraps, pump toppers, and vehicle magnets.
In addition to E85, Michigan consumers have another fuel option that contains ethanol. E10 is a blend of 10 percent ethanol and 90 percent gasoline. It is the most prominent fuel found in the United States and is in more than 70 percent of Michigan?s fuel. Every car manufacturer warrantees the use of E10 in their vehicles.
The Corn Marketing Program of Michigan is a legislatively-established statewide program that utilizes one-cent per bushel of Michigan corn sold. Investments are made in the areas of research, education, market development, and new uses in an effort to enhance the economic position of Michigan corn farmers. The CMPM works cooperatively with the Michigan Corn Growers Association, a grassroots-membership association representing the state?s corn farmer’ political interests.
For more information, click on MICorn.Org
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