ACE Highlights Key 45Z Priorities in Testimony
On May 28, American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) urged the U.S. Department of Treasury and Internal Revenue Service to swiftly finalize practical and workable regulations implementing the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, emphasizing the importance of fully recognizing low-carbon farming practices within the program.
During Treasury’s public hearing on proposed 45Z regulations, ACE Chief Consultant and Policy Advisor Jonathon Lehman stressed that ethanol producers and farmers need clear rules that allow the industry to fully monetize carbon reductions achieved through conservation practices and innovation.
ACE highlighted that farming practices account for roughly half of ethanol’s carbon intensity profile and argued that conservation efforts such as no-till, reduced tillage, cover crops, and precision nutrient management must be incorporated effectively into the final rule.
ACE also encouraged continued improvement of the USDA Feedstock Carbon Intensity Calculator (FD-CIC) and for the tool to be integrated directly into the 45ZCF-GREET model. On June 14, the Department of Energy released an updated 45ZCF-GREET model. The model helps calculate carbon intensity scores that determine credit values. The update reflects policy changes made under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including the removal of indirect land-use change penalties for U.S. renewable fuels.
Lehman pointed to ACE’s ongoing partnership work with USDA and DOE, including a project in South Dakota, generating field-level data validating the emissions benefits of conservation practices. ACE further urged Treasury to build verification requirements around existing USDA conservation programs rather than imposing costly new compliance systems.
In closing, Lehman emphasized the urgency of finalizing the rule and ensuring federal agencies coordinate effectively to support rural economies and low-carbon fuel growth.
Pump & Pantry to Acquire 21 Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh C-Stores
ACE member Bosselman Pump & Pantry, a fourth-generation fuel and convenience retailer, has entered an agreement to purchase 21 Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh standalone convenience stores, which include five in-store Starbucks and seven in-store Smokey Row coffee shops. The acquisition is expected to close in July 2026.
The agreement includes 15 locations in Iowa, Nebraska and Minnesota. The Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh locations will be rebranded as Pump & Pantry stores and will continue to offer Hy-Vee Fuel Saver redemptions.
The deal will bring Pump & Pantry’s store count to 69 convenience stores in three states. In addition, Pump & Pantry is expanding Hy-Vee Fuel Saver redemption to all 69 of its locations in the coming months.
“Since 1971, Pump & Pantry has earned the trust of Nebraskans by delivering a reliable, welcoming stop on the road,” said Charlie Bosselman, chief executive officer. “Now we’re bringing that same experience—great fuel options, everyday convenience, and friendly service—to even more communities. We’re energized to aggressively grow our footprint across the Midwest and to welcome new team members and new customers to the Pump & Pantry family.”