ABOUT US

Kansas-born, future-leading energy

At Western Plains Energy, our mission is to empower a sustainable future through innovative practices, community advancement, and environmental responsibility.  We deliver energy solutions that create value for our stakeholders, improve the lives of our customers, and work toward a zero-carbon future.

Every day, we strive to be a dependable partner in renewable energy, driving progress with a commitment to excellence and integrity.

Board of Managers

Jeff Torluemke

President

Dave Mann

Vice President

Ben Dickman

Secretary

Brian Baalman

Manager

Scott Foote

Manager

Rick Billinger

Manager

Steve Sershen

Manager

Staff

Derek Peine

CEO

Dusty Zerr

CFO

Rick Holaday

Plant Manager

Greg Doll

Commodities Manager

Jeff Brittenham

IT Manager

Joni Wilson

Distillers Sales & Commodities Manager

Aaron Betz

EHS Manager

Miranda Ashmore

HR Manager

Tawny Shaw

Lab Manager

Josh Brown

Production Manager

Cody Holzmeister

Materials Manager

Joe Renner

Maintenance Manager

Committed to a carbon-free tomorrow

Our goal is to reduce our carbon footprint to zero, creating a more sustainable future for our communities and the planet. We’re taking bold steps to innovate our processes, adopt cleaner technologies, and continuously improve our environmental practices. This dedication to environmental stewardship is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that we continue to power our progress responsibly for generations to come.

From a vision to a leader in ethanol production

Inspiration: Spring 2000

The roots of Western Plains Energy trace back to a challenging time for local farmers in 2000, when surplus grain led to low prices. Brian Baalman, a local farmer, was inspired by a presentation at the Commodity Classic, where he learned how investing in an ethanol plant could increase earnings per bushel. This idea sparked a vision that Brian brought home to Northwest Kansas, where he teamed up with Jeff Torluemke to bring this concept to life.

Western Plains Energy, LLC was officially formed on July 10, 2001, with the goal of improving the value of local grain by building an ethanol plant.

2001

2003

This vision became reality when WPE broke ground in the spring of 2003.

In January of 2004, WPE became operational.

2004

2005

The first expansion took place with the addition of a Beerwell and Boiler.

Additional grain storage added with the purchase of the CoAg Grain Facilities.

2006

Second expansion that added a fifth fermenter.

2010

2011

Western Plains Trucking, LLC created; we purchased trucking assets to haul distiller products.
A second grain leg and dump pit were added.

Anaerobic digester and additional administrative office space added.

2012

2014

Introduced value-add technology with distillers oil extraction from syrup stream.

Developed a new focus on decarbonization and low-carbon intensity ethanol to attract more buyers and capture a premium in the regulated fuel markets.

2019

2021

Western Plains Wind, LLC created.

Added 3 new grain bins for an additional 1.5 million bushels of storage.

2024

A Series of Firsts

WPE has always been at the forefront of innovation in the ethanol industry. We were the first to trial ICM’s cold-cook process, the first to experiment with ICM’s slurry grinding system, and the first to trial Syngenta’s Enogen corn.

Partners in building stronger communities

Our success is built on strong partnerships and associations that share our commitment to sustainable energy and community growth. We work closely with local farmers, suppliers, and various industry leaders to continuously improve our processes and contribute to the regional economy. Our collaborations extend beyond just business—they’re about investing in the vitality of our communities and supporting the future of renewable energy.

Do you grow corn or sorghum?

Partner with WPE and be a part of a sustainable future!