New South Dakota Ethanol Plant Operating

June 19, 2002

The farmer-owned Northern Lights Ethanol, LLC, has begun producing ethanol. The same day Northern Lights came on line, James Valley Ethanol broke ground on a new ethanol plant, maintaining the number under construction at 14.

"Expansion of the ethanol industry continues full speed ahead," said Bob Dinneen, president of the Renewable Fuels Association. "I congratulate the farmer-owners of Northern Lights Ethanol on the commencement of ethanol production and welcome them to the most dynamic industry in the energy business. We also wish James Valley Ethanol well as they begin construction on their facility. Clearly, the ethanol industry is ready, willing, and able to play a bigger role in providing safe and secure fuels to the American public."

Northern Lights Ethanol, a farmer-owned plant outside of Big Stone City, SD, has the capacity to produce more than 40 million gallons per year (mgy) of ethanol. James Valley Ethanol, being built near Groton, SD, will produce 45 mgy from approximately 15 million bushels of corn. Both plants are expected to employ between 35 and 40 people each. Both plants use The Broin Companies as their design-build, management and marketing partner.

"Both plants have been designed to be two of the most energy-efficient, labor-efficient and microbiologically-efficient ethanol production facilities on line in the U.S.," said Jeff Broin, C.E.O. of The Broin Companies.

There are currently 62 ethanol plants in the United States capable of producing approximately 2.4 billion gallons per year. Fourteen additional plants under construction will add more than 435 mgy of annual capacity.