John Deere Diesel Engines Approved for High Biodiesel Blends

By Cami Koons

John Deere announced Tuesday all of its Tier 4 diesel engines were approved for B30 fuels, a fuel blend with up to 30% biodiesel. 

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association called the action a “major step” toward renewable fuel adoption, especially for producers in Iowa who have several B30 incentive programs. 

The adoption means that farmers can use the higher-blend fuel in their agricultural equipment like tractors and combines, which typically use the heavy-duty engines. Previously, John Deere rated these tier-4 engines for B20, or 20% biodiesel, fuel blends. 

IRFA executive director Monte Shaw said in a press release that John Deere “has always been a leader in promoting renewable fuels.” 

Pierre Guyot, senior vice president of John Deere Power Systems, said the company is committed to growing its use of renewable fuels. 

Lower-tier John Deere engines are rated for higher fuel blends, up 100% biodiesel. 

“We believe strongly in the role that renewable fuels play in supporting the agriculture economy and are excited to offer our customers – including those who grow the very crops used to make renewable fuels – the opportunity to leverage higher blends of fuels like biodiesel in their own equipment,” Guyot said in a press release. 

In 2024 Iowa produced an estimated 350 million gallons of biodiesel, and the industry had an estimated economic contribution of $2.2 billion, according to IRFA. In May, Iowa gained a first-of-its-kind biodiesel pump at a station in Urbandale, to fuel PepsiCo trucks with B99 fuel. 

Iowa offers a $0.10 per gallon tax-credit to fuel retailers that sell B30 or higher blends. In addition to the state program, Iowa Renewable Fuels Association offers a biodiesel fuel credit to farmers who fill up with biodiesel blends. Blends above 20% can get $0.50 per gallon in credits, up to $500. 

“These programs make biodiesel more accessible and affordable for Iowa farmers, while supporting the state’s leadership in renewable energy,” Lisa Coffelt, IRFA’s marketing director said.

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