Material Adjusted EBITDA Recovery and QoQ Improvement
Adjusted EBITDA of $71.5 million in Q1 2026, up $22.0 million versus Q4 2025 (≈44% quarter-over-quarter increase) and more than $95 million higher versus Q1 2025, reflecting a swing to materially stronger profitability year-over-year.
Carbon Program Delivers Immediate Value and Raised Guidance
Carbon (45Z) generated $65.6 million of gross tax-credit value in Q1 and contributed $55.2 million net to adjusted EBITDA in its first full quarter of operation. Company raised full‑year 45Z net EBITDA guidance from at least $188 million to $200–$225 million, with Advantage Nebraska expected to contribute ~$140–$165 million of that range.
High Utilization and Production Records
Plants produced 174 million gallons in the quarter, operating at approximately 97% of capacity; York, NE set a monthly production record (March) and Superior, IA set a quarterly record — demonstrating improved reliability and execution.
Significant Gross Margin and Revenue Improvement
Gross margin improved to $88 million in Q1 2026 versus $3 million in Q1 2025 (an increase of $85 million). Revenue for the quarter was $446 million despite a reduction in gallons sold following the prior sale of the Obion, TN facility.
Return to Net Income and EPS Improvement
Net income attributable to Green Plains was $33 million, or $0.42 per diluted share, compared with a net loss (prior-year) of $1.14 per share — a clear move back to profitability on a per-share basis.
Stronger Balance Sheet and Cash Position (post-quarter)
Unrestricted cash and equivalents were $95.7 million as of March 31 (seasonal decline), and management reports cash plus restricted cash now exceeds $200 million following the final cash payment for 2025 45Z credits received in April.
Lower Operating Costs and SG&A Discipline
Consolidated SG&A totaled $19.5 million in Q1 and continues to trend lower year-over-year; management remains on track for a full-year SG&A target of approximately $90 million.
Operational and Commercial Tailwinds
Pre-45Z gross margin per gallon was roughly $0.10 higher versus Q1 2025, supported by lower corn prices, strong domestic and international ethanol demand (exports), improving corn oil values, and higher protein relative value; EPA RVOs for 2026–2027 were set at record levels, supporting long-term demand.
Safety and Operational Discipline
First quarter completed with no recordable injuries and an insurer recognition for the Central City plant — underscoring operational discipline and safety culture.
Targeted, Economical Capital Allocation
Q1 capex was $6.4 million; sustaining capex guidance is $15–$25 million for 2026. Management is prioritizing sustaining capex, modest CI/efficiency projects (e.g., low-energy distillation to reduce natural gas use by ~30–40%), grain storage (Wood River ~4.5M bushels) and retiring $60 million of 2027 convertible notes at maturity.