By Andi Anderson
Illinois’ soybeans are fueling both the economy and a cleaner environment. On Chicago’s lakefront, more than 80 Park District vehicles—including service trucks, tractors, and mowers—run on biodiesel blends made from refined soybean oil.
Introduced in 2011, this renewable fuel performs as well as conventional diesel while significantly reducing air pollution.
Biodiesel emits up to 80% less carbon than regular diesel, providing “the greatest carbon reduction per dollar spent,” said Pete Probst of Indigenous Energy. Illinois, the nation’s top soybean producer and a major ethanol player, has embraced biodiesel as a way to diversify markets for its farmers.
About 80% of a soybean is used for protein meal and 20% for oil, with biodiesel offering a valuable domestic outlet.
Favorable state policies have fueled growth. Since 2003, Illinois has offered a 6.25% sales tax exemption for biodiesel blends of at least 17%, set to rise to 20% in 2026. Vehicles using certified blends up to 20% require no modifications, and some Chicago Park trucks even run on 100% biodiesel.
Industry investment is surging. Gilman-based Incobrasa Industries is expanding its processing capacity to 98 million bushels of soybeans and 155 million gallons of biodiesel annually by 2030.
The company sources 85% of its soybeans from Illinois farms, supporting local producers and creating rural jobs. “The more demand we have, the better our markets become,” said farmer and American Soybean Association director Stan Born.
With domestic biodiesel production surpassing 5.9 billion gallons in 2024, Illinois stands as a national leader. From powering city trucks to creating stable markets for farmers, soybean biodiesel is proving to be a key driver of renewable energy and economic growth in the Midwest.
Photo Credit: credit-vista-mipan
Categories: Illinois, Energy