The American Coalition for Ethanol Annual Conference’s “Grit Wins” theme reflects attacks by oil refiners on ethanol this year.

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) has opened registration and released the agenda for its 31st annual conference Aug. 15-17 at the Renaissance Depot Hotel in Minneapolis.

This year’s “Grit Wins” conference theme and programming are reflective of the attacks oil refiners have launched on ethanol this year.

The general session panels will include updates from ACE leadership, a discussion of attacks on the ethanol industry, an overview of future demand for liquid fuels, testimonials from flex fuel marketers, a technical update on fuel quality, and a presentation on whether exports can overcome escalating trade tensions and tariffs.

General Session Preview:

• Grit Wins: Updates from ACE Leadership

ACE leadership will discuss the successes of the last year and highlight upcoming projects and opportunities we are working on for ACE members.

• Making Rural America Great Again—Uncovering the Plot to Keep Ethanol Down

This panel will provide an exposé documenting EPA and Big Oil’s efforts to limit ethanol use.

• Future Fuels

This panel will provide an overview of future demand for liquid fuels and electricity with emphasis on how ethanol can increase its share of the domestic marketplace based on high-octane and low-carbon qualities.

• E15 and Flex Fuel: How’s that Working Out for You?

Members of ACE’s Marketer Advisory Panel (MAP) will discuss what works and doesn’t work in E15 and flex fuel retailing, how they view the future of biofuels, and more during this panel.

• Up to Spec

Get a technical update on fuel quality and the work at ASTM during this session.

• How Can Exports Overcome Tariffs and Tensions?

This panel will address export destinations, demand drivers, and the status of trade negotiations and tariffs.

Among the breakout sessions is a track that will provide ethanol plant board members with guidance on how to use strategic planning methods to guide their company’s future. Other breakout session topics include workforce management, coproduct diversification, low carbon fuel markets, tax reform, new technology, production efficiency, and more, as well as a brainstorming session on how to strengthen ethanol’s image in your community.

“We’re looking forward to providing a conversational forum for our industry to share the latest activities underway to increase demand for ethanol here and around the world,” said Brian Jennings, ACE CEO. “The ethanol industry was built from the ground up by people whose grit and determination have grown it to what we see today. We encourage ethanol producers and industry members to register for this year’s conference and join us in showing how grit wins.”