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Ethanol or ethyl alcohol is a fuel component made primarily from corn and various other grains and can be used as:

• An octane enhancer in fuels;
• An oxygenated fuel additive for the purpose of reducing ozone and carbon monoxide vehicle emissions; and
• A non-petroleum based gasoline substitute.

Approximately 95% of all ethanol is used in its primary form for blending with unleaded gasoline and other fuel products. Used as a fuel oxygenate, ethanol provides a means to control carbon monoxide emissions. The principal purchasers of ethanol are generally wholesale gasoline marketers or blenders.

BrownWinick is one of the nation’s most active law firms in the ethanol industry. We represent numerous public and private ethanol production facilities located throughout the United States. Our Renewable Fuels practice group combines its industry involvement and Corporate Finance and Securities Law practice group to assist clients in developing and implementing innovative financing techniques that move our clients from development to operations. As the industry has evolved, our services have become increasingly customized to meet our clients’ objectives. 

We regularly advise clients on all aspects of operating an ethanol production facility including negotiation and preparation of key project contracts such as design-build agreements, feedstock procurement, off-take agreements, utility provider services and risk management agreements. In addition, we guide our clients through compliance with Securities and Exchange Commission reporting obligations, Sarbanes-Oxley compliance and corporate governance matters. Our representation often extends to other areas encountered in the operation of an ethanol production facility such environmental matters, employment, employee benefits, taxation, mergers, acquisitions, consolidations, joint ventures, refinancing, recapitalization and intellectual property.

BrownWinick is an active member of the Renewable Fuels Association, and is a regular participant in industry trade conferences and seminars. We recognize the dynamic nature of the modern ethanol industry and spend time studying its changes and developments so that when you look to us for guidance, BrownWinick has a comprehensive perspective of your business.

Above all, we understand that you are looking for results and you need a law firm that knows your industry to help you achieve the results you desire. BrownWinick knows the ethanol industry, and we understand the importance of results.

The determination of the need for legal services and the choice of a lawyer are extremely important decisions and should not be based solely upon advertisements or self-proclaimed expertise. This disclosure is required by rule of the Supreme Court of Iowa.