ETHANOL PRODUCTION IN MARANHÃO IS EXPECTED TO GROW BY 250% WITH A PLANT IN BALSAS

Ethanol production in Maranhão is set to surge in 2025 with the start of Inpasa’s new plant in Balsas, which will process 1 million tons of corn annually and boost state output from 168 million to over 600 million liters—a 250% increase. This growth is supported by policies like the approval of direct ethanol sales from mills to gas stations, aimed at reducing costs and expanding access. Beyond energy and economic gains, production is tied to carbon credits (CBios) under RenovaBio, which encourage decarbonization and sustainable practices. Maranhão already has two certified plants, and Inpasa, Latin America’s largest grain ethanol producer, plays a leading role, issuing 1.3 million CBios in 2024. The sector also generates animal feed, vegetable oil, bioelectricity, and jobs, reinforcing social, environmental, and economic benefits. Recent measures, such as raising the ethanol blend in gasoline to 30%, are expected to further boost demand in the state.
Source: Nova Cana