January 8, 2009 - Washington – Following a white-knuckle year in 2008, the 2009 National Ethanol Conference, the nation’s premiere policy and marketing conference for the ethanol industry, takes on increased importance as the US ethanol industry answers its critics and seizes upon the opportunities that are being created by the innovation and evolution within the industry itself.

This year’s conference will be held in San Antonio, Texas, February 23-25, and will address issues vital to the continued success of America’s ethanol industry such as modernizing ethanol blending regulations, expanding infrastructure and the marketplace for higher level ethanol blends, fostering the continued innovation and development of next generation technologies, and capitalizing on the environmental benefits offered by increasing the production and use of ethanol.

Of particular note this year, the conference will feature two keynote addresses from leaders in the petroleum and gasoline industry. Jack Gerard, the recently installed President and CEO of the American Petroleum Institute, will keynote the first day. Joe Petrowski, the CEO of Gulf Oil, will keynote the second day of the conference.

“The focus and timing of this year’s National Ethanol Conference could not come at a better time,” said Renewable Fuels Association President Bob Dinneen. “The challenges facing America’s ethanol industry are real, but not insurmountable. The opportunities available to this industry seem almost endless. By tackling all of these head on, this industry can silence its critics and become a cornerstone of America’s energy, economic and environmental future for generations to come.”

Opportunities to register and attend the 14th Annual National Ethanol Conference still remain. To learn more or to register, visit www.nationalethanolconference.com.