Our History

MAAPW was officially established and incorporated as a Delaware LLC, marking the formal creation of the company. This pivotal moment laid the legal and organizational groundwork for the company’s future growth and success, positioning it to become a leading force in ethanol production and agricultural innovation.

The Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract to build the state-of-the-art ethanol plant in Madrid, Nebraska was officially executed, marking a critical step in the development process. This agreement laid the foundation for the design, acquisition of materials, and construction of the facility, setting the stage for what would become a cornerstone of Mid America Agri Products/Wheatland’s operations and its contributions to the renewable energy sector.

Construction began on the ethanol plant. The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Madrid ethanol plant marked a significant milestone, signifying the start of a new chapter in renewable energy production in Southwestern Nebraska.

MAAPW reached a major milestone as the first bushels of corn were ground, marking the official commencement of plant operations. This event signified the start of full-scale production, setting the stage for the company's role as a key player in ethanol production and its commitment to supporting local agriculture and sustainable energy.

MAAPW added the ability to extract corn oil as a key new processing capability, creating an additional revenue stream that further increases and diversifies the plant’s capabilities. This strategic enhancement not only maximizes the value of corn but also strengthens the company’s overall profitability and market resilience.

In September 2019, MAAPW celebrated the 12th anniversary of its Madrid plant, which opened in 2007. This milestone marked a time to reflect on the plant's production achievements and operational efficiency. Over the 12 years, MAAPW purchased more than 200 million bushels of corn and produced 570 million gallons of ethanol. Despite industry challenges in 2015, MAAPW emerged stronger, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to long-term success in the ethanol sector.

Along with its membership in the Renewable Fuels Association, MAAPW's CFO, Prestin Read, joined the RFA's Board of Directors. This role enables MAAPW to collaborate closely with leading producers in the industry and promote the collective vision and goals of the ethanol sector.

MAAPW officially embarked on a transformative path of decarbonization through the implementation of CO2 capture and sequestration technology, positioning the company as a leader in sustainability. This initiative marks a significant step toward reducing carbon emissions, enhancing environmental responsibility, and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future for the ethanol industry.

MAAPW installed a second advanced system for enhanced corn oil extraction, boosting overall yield, improving production efficiency, and maximizing the value derived from every bushel of corn processed. This upgrade further strengthens the plant’s commitment to optimizing resources and increasing profitability.

MAAPW significantly expanded its on-site corn storage capacity with the addition of a state-of-the-art grain bin, allowing for increased storage efficiency, improved inventory management, and enhanced operational flexibility to support growing production demands.

In August 2024, MAAPW took a significant step toward enhancing sustainability by signing an agreement to implement carbon sequestration at its Madrid plant. This initiative aligns with MAAPW’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact by capturing and storing carbon dioxide emissions generated during ethanol production. By integrating carbon sequestration, MAAPW aims to further lower its carbon footprint, contributing to both environmental stewardship and the long-term viability of the renewable fuels industry.

Mid America Agri Products/Wheatland on October 3 announced the start of carbon dioxide capture at its Madrid, Nebraska, ethanol facility, with volumes to be transported on Tallgrass’ Trailblazer Pipeline for permanent sequestration in Wyoming.

Vitol Inc.(“Vitol”) is pleased to announce that it has acquired full ownership of Mid America Agri Products/ Wheatland, LLC(“MAAPW”) and its parent company, Mid America Bio Energy& Commodities, LLC(“MABE”).

Vitol has been a shareholder in MAAPW and the exclusive marketer of MAAPW ethanol since 2018.

This acquisition reflects Vitol’s ongoing commitment to the renewable fuels sector and its confidence in the future of ethanol as a key component of the energy transition. By integrating MAAPW and MABE fully into its portfolio, Vitol aims to further strengthen its position in the North American biofuels market and continue delivering value to its customers and partners.

“We are grateful for the strong relationship we have built with MAAPW and MABE over the past several years and are excited to continue working with the current teams,” said Justin O’Rourke, Business Development at Vitol Inc.“We look forward to building on this foundation and driving continued growth and innovation in the renewable fuels space.”