See How the Top 10 Ethanol Companies are Central to the Global Clean Energy Transition

Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) is a flammable liquid with a distinct color and taste. Made from renewable plant biomass, it shows up in a wide range of uses from boosting gasoline performance to acting as a solvent and a base for alcoholic beverages. Its ability to dissolve in water makes it an indispensable compound in cosmetic and beauty products.

Types of Ethanol

The product comes in four main types: Fermented Ethanol derived from crops such as sugarcane, is widely used in beverages. Synthetic ethanol, derived from petroleum-based ethylene, finds its place mainly in industrial use. Denatured ethanol blended with additives to block off consumption, is ideal for manufacturing processes. Absolute ethanol at 99-100% purity takes the lead as a vital, water-free solvent used across labs.

Economic Impact

In 2024, the U.S. industry had taken on more than 55,810 direct employees and helped create around additional 258,089 jobs across the economy. Moreover, the industry generated USD 28.3 billion in household income and contributed USD 53 billion to the country’s GDP.

Market Scenario

As the world leans toward greener energy sources, the push for fuel ethanol alternatives has picked up steam. Technology breakthroughs in distillation and fermentation, and cellulosic ethanol, are expected to provide significant growth opportunities in the expansion of the industry. North America captured a 43.05% share of the market in 2023, fueled by the robust need for biofuels.

Country-wise breakdown

• Rising demand for ethanol in personal care in the Middle East & Africa is driving industry expansion.
• The robust increase in ethanol production has kept up China’s dominance in the market.
• In Germany, supportive government policy to reduce emissions is likely to boost the growth of the market.

As per a report by Fortune Business Insights™, the market for ethanol was valued at USD 77.12 billion in 2023 and is expected to increase from USD 71.79 billion in 2024 to USD 110.71 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 4.6% during 2025-2032.

Fortune Business Insights™ Profiles 10 Key Ethanol Companies

1. Cremer Oleo GmbH Co.KG

The corporation manufactures products such as fatty acids and alcohols for various applications from health to homecare. Emphasizing the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030, Cremer Oleo GmbH Co.KG champions a sustainable supply chain. In December 2022, it launched a dedicated team for industrial ethanol refining and distribution, tapping into the cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors.

2. Alto Ingredients

Alto Ingredients, Inc. runs five U.S. plants with a 350M-gallon annual capacity, producing fuel ethanol and specialty alcohols for multiple industries. In March 2024, it partnered with Vault 44.01 on a carbon capture project at its Pekin, Illinois, site to trap CO2 from product manufacturing.

3. AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG

Austria’s AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG, active in over 20 countries, produces sugar, starch, and fruit-based products for global food and bio-industrial markets. In 2023, it posted USD 4.01 billion in revenue, with operations spanning Asia, the Americas, Europe, and the sustainability embedded in its sourcing, energy, and environmental practices.

4. Archer Daniels Midland Company

Archer Daniels Midland Company, active in 17+ countries, is a top global producer of nutrition ingredients, spanning staples and plant-based alternatives. In 2023, it earned USD 93.94 billion, with ethanol production from corn yielding significant animal feed as a byproduct.

5. Cardinal Ethanol LLC

U.S.-based Cardinal Ethanol LLC produces ethanol, corn oil, distiller’s grains, and carbon dioxide, with annual capacities of 135 million gallons in Union City and 70 million gallons in Colwich. It also trades agricultural grains, mainly soybeans, across two business segments.

6. Sekab

Sekab is a leading Swedish producer of sustainable chemicals and biofuels for the European market. Its portfolio includes bio-based ethyl acetate, acetaldehyde, acetic acid, ethanol products such as windshield washer fluids, and thermol. Relying on renewable raw materials such as forestry and agricultural residues. Sekab has the capacity to purify 310,000 tons of ethanol and blend 2,00,000 tons of motor fuels annually.

7. POET LLC

POET, a world leader in renewable bio-products, operates 34 bioprocessing facilities across the U.S. Midwest and holds 80+ global patents. Its portfolio spans plant-based food and personal care ingredients, biofuels, renewable CO2, and sustainable petroleum industries. In July 2024, POET LLC joined forces with CF Industries Holdings, Inc., to trial low-carbon ammonia fertilizer, targeting reduced carbon intensity in corn and ethanol production to meet rising demand under low-carbon fuel regulations. 

8. Nordzucker

Nordzucker, a major producer of beet-and cane-based sugar, operates across Europe and Australia. Its portfolio spans various sugar types and animal feed, molasses, fertilizers, and power generation. Since 2007, its Klein Wanzleben plant in Germany has produced up to 130,000 cubic metres of bioethanol annually, with flexible operations that shift between bioethanol production according to market needs.

9. Green Plains Inc.

Green Plains Inc. operates through three segments: ethanol production, agribusiness, and energy services. Its ethanol segment delivers Ultra-High Protein, renewable corn oil, and distillers' grains. The company runs 10 plants across six states, with a combined production capacity of 903 million gallons annually.

10. Marquis Energy

Marquis Energy is a major manufacturer of renewable ethyl alcohol, exceeding 395 million gallons per year. Its offerings include distillers’ dried grains with solubles, USP and industrial alcohol, and Marquis ProCap Gold high-protein feed. The company also pursues carbon capture initiatives and soybean crushing operations.

Why Does Ethanol’s versatility Enhance its Market Value?

Ethanol stands at the crossroads of farming, fuel, and sustainability, driving inclination toward clean energy. Its broad applications, from transportation fuels to industrial and medical uses, highlight its adaptability and economic value. Supported by robust policies, growing demand for low-carbon solutions, and advancements in fermentation, distillation, and cellulosic technologies, the industry is achieving greater efficiency and feedstock diversification. With North America, particularly the U.S., leading through strong biofuel mandates such as the renewable fuel standard, the product not only drives rural economic growth but also advances global sustainability objectives.