As a cutting-edge and continually evolving industry, biodiesel and renewable diesel have transformed the U.S. energy landscape – delivering significant economic benefits today with the potential for even greater impact ahead. With the arrival of a new report from GlobalData on the “Economic Impact of Biodiesel on the U.S. Economy 2024,” we now have a clear lens through which to understand the industry’s value today and the road ahead. As the report makes clear, production is rising, jobs are growing, and clean energy is available now, not in the distant future.
Biodiesel Fuels Jobs, Growth, and Rural America
The Current State of Clean Fuels
As a cutting-edge and continually evolving industry, biodiesel has transformed the U.S. energy landscape – delivering significant economic benefits today with the potential for even greater impact ahead. With the arrival of a new report from GlobalData on the “Economic Impact of Biodiesel on the U.S. Economy 2024,” we now have a clear lens through which to understand the industry’s value today and the road ahead. As the report makes clear, production is rising, jobs are growing, and clean energy is available now, not in the distant future.
Today:
5.9B
gallons
100% US-Made Fuel:
5.9B
gallons
(That’s 15,200 more jobs.)
If production grows to:
7.5B
gallons
The Rural and Farming Backbone
Farmers are the backbone of America. The crops they grow keep our economy and workforce moving forward. Biodiesel and renewable diesel directly support rural communities and farmers who help our nation thrive. According to the Economic Impact report, the overall economic impact of clean fuels included support for 30,600 jobs and $15.2 billion in economic activity for oilseed farmers. Growing renewable fuel feedstocks creates added value for farmers, strengthening rural economies through more stable and diversified income streams. The result is a win for both agricultural sustainability and economic resilience.
Why Domestic Growth Matters
The more biodiesel and renewable diesel we produce on American soil, the bigger the boost to our economy, job market and energy independence. Currently, the U.S. produces about 5 billion gallons of clean fuels including biodiesel, with another .9 billion gallons imported from overseas, for a total of 5.9 billion gallons. While those imports still generate economic activity — through transportation, port operations, and the use of U.S. grown soybeans in some foreign production, increasing domestic output could elevate the overall impact. If those 5.9 billion gallons were entirely domestically produced, the economic impact could jump to $50.2 billion, supporting 122,600 American jobs.
The Future is Here
The potential for growth in the clean fuels sector is significant. According to the report, if current investments in biodiesel continue, the U.S. could produce up to 7.5 billion gallons in the near future. That growth could mean a huge boost to the U.S., including $60.25 billion toward the U.S. economy, 145,700 jobs, and $7.6 billion in wages paid to American workers. These figures are based on real investments already underway. With continued support, the clean fuels industry can expand even further propelling economic growth across the country.
Powering More Than Just Vehicles
Biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel more than just trucks. They are used to heat homes, and fuel ships, trains, planes and heavy-duty transport across the country. Many clean energy solutions are years away, but biodiesel is available right now, helping lower emissions and supporting local economies. Clean fuels are compatible with existing infrastructure and engines, so communities can adopt it without costly upgrades. Because it integrates so easily across industries, clean fuels not only save money but push us toward a more sustainable future.
It’s impossible to overstate how much this booming industry is already delivering – and how much more it’s poised to achieve. The takeaway is clear: clean fuels support jobs, strengthen domestic markets, and contribute to a more resilient economy. As America continues to invest in cleaner energy, the biodiesel industry is ready to lead the way.
The Bottom Line
The Current State of Clean Fuels
The Current State of Clean Fuels
to the US economy
$42.4B
107,400 jobs
$50.2B
to the US economy
122,600 jobs
$60.25B
to the US economy
145,700 jobs
(That’s 38,300 more jobs.)
$2.4B
in economic impact
6,000 jobs
Texas
$8.1B
in economic impact
13,500 jobs
Louisiana
$3.4B
in economic impact
6,700 jobs
California
$3.1B
in economic impact
9,100 jobs
North Dakota
$3.5B
in economic impact
12,000 jobs
Iowa
$3.2B
in economic impact
8,100 jobs
Illinois
(That’s 15,200 more jobs.)