Advanced BioFuels USA – Truly Sustainable Renewable Future

QUOTE OF THE WEEK -- Oliver Zipse

A correction of the 100% BEV target for 2035 as part of a comprehensive CO2-reduction package would also afford European OEMs less reliance on China for batteries. ... To maintain the successful course, a strictly technology-agnostic path within the policy framework is essential. -- Oliver Zipse, BMW's CEO at the Paris Motor Show READ MORE

Why Is It Taking So Long to Get the Necessary Guidance on the 45Z Tax Credit Program?

•by Jim Wiesemeyer (AgWeb) ... There are a few key reasons why guidance on the 45Z clean fuel production tax credit program is taking a long time to be issued:

• Complexity of the program: The 45Z credit is a new, technology-neutral credit based on carbon intensity scores, which is more complex than previous biofuel tax credits. Developing the emissions rate tables and carbon intensity scoring methodology is technically challenging.

• Interagency coordination: The Treasury Department and IRS need to coordinate with other agencies like the Department of Energy to develop the emissions rate tables and carbon intensity methodologies.

• Stakeholder input: The government is likely taking time to gather and incorporate input from various industry stakeholders on how to structure and implement the credit.

• Technical details: Determining specifics like eligible fuels, feedstocks, and how to calculate and verify carbon intensity scores requires careful consideration.

• Transition from existing credits: The 45Z credit will replace several existing biofuel credits in 2025, so the transition needs to be carefully managed.

• Limited resources: The Treasury and IRS have been working on implementing many new tax provisions from recent legislation, potentially straining their resources.

• Desire for accuracy: Given the credit's importance for clean fuel investment, the government likely wants to ensure the guidance is comprehensive and accurate before releasing it.

• Impact of delay. The lack of full guidance is causing uncertainty for fuel producers trying to plan investments and production for when the credit takes effect in 2025. However, the government has issued some initial guidance on registration requirements to help producers prepare.

The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit differs from previous fuel production credits in several ways:

• Technology-neutral approach: Unlike previous credits that targeted specific types of fuels, the 45Z credit is technology-neutral and applies to any transportation fuel that meets the emissions reduction criteria.

• Carbon intensity-based: The credit amount is calculated based on the fuel's carbon intensity score, rather than a flat rate per gallon. Fuels with lower emissions receive a larger credit.

• Producer credit vs blender credit: The 45Z credit goes to the fuel producer, whereas some previous credits like the $1/gallon biodiesel tax credit went to fuel blenders.

• Emissions rate requirement: To qualify, fuels must have an emissions rate no greater than 50 kg of CO2e per mmBTU.

• Registration requirement: Producers must be registered with the IRS before claiming the credit, which is a new requirement.

• Limited duration: The 45Z credit is currently set to apply only to fuels produced from 2025-2027, whereas some previous credits were repeatedly extended.

• Replaces multiple credits: The 45Z credit will replace several existing fuel credits that are set to expire, including those for biodiesel, renewable diesel, and alternative fuels.

• Potentially larger credit amounts: For fuels meeting certain labor requirements, the credit could be up to $1.75 per gallon for sustainable aviation fuel or $1.00 per gallon for other fuels, which is potentially higher than some previous credits.

The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit has several important implications for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production:

• Incentivizes SAF production: The 45Z credit provides a significant financial incentive for producers to manufacture SAF, with a maximum credit of $1.75 per gallon for aviation fuels that meet certain requirements.

• Technology-neutral approach: Unlike previous credits that targeted specific fuel types, the 45Z credit is technology-neutral. This means any SAF that meets the emissions reduction criteria can qualify, potentially spurring innovation in SAF production methods.

• Carbon intensity-based: The credit amount is calculated based on the fuel's carbon intensity score. SAF with lower emissions receives a larger credit, encouraging producers to minimize the carbon footprint of their production processes.

• Replaces previous credits: The 45Z credit will replace several existing fuel credits set to expire, including the current sustainable aviation fuel credit (Section 40B).

• Registration requirement: SAF producers must register with the IRS before claiming the credit, which is a new requirement compared to previous fuel credits.

• Emissions reduction threshold: To qualify for the credit, SAF must have an emissions rate no greater than 50 kg of CO2e per mmBTU.

• Potential for higher credit amounts: For SAF meeting certain labor requirements, the credit could be up to $1.75 per gallon, which is potentially higher than some previous credits.

• Uncertainty due to delayed guidance: The lack of final guidance on how to calculate carbon intensity scores is causing uncertainty for SAF producers and potentially delaying investments in new production facilities.

• Impact on feedstock choices: The credit may influence which feedstocks are used for SAF production, depending on how carbon intensity is calculated for different agricultural inputs.

• Transition period: The shift from the current SAF credit (Section 40B) to the new 45Z credit in 2025 is creating some challenges for producers in planning future production and sales. READ MORE

California Can Reduce Gasoline Prices by Adopting E-15 Ethanol Blend

(Aemetis) Aemetis, Inc. (Nasdaq: AMTX), a California renewable fuels producer, today called for the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to immediately implement a 15% ethanol blend in gasoline to reduce gas prices for California consumers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from motor vehicles. California stands alone among the 50 states in not adopting a 15% blend of fuel ethanol. The US EPA approved E-15 for use in light duty vehicles in 2011, and 49 other states have adopted a 15% ethanol blend. California still mandates a 90% petroleum blend in every gallon of gasoline.

In response to Governor Newsom calling a special session of the state legislature, the State Assembly is currently holding hearings regarding the need for lower fuel prices in California. An obvious solution is to allow consumers to purchase lower cost, cleaner burning, domestically produced renewable fuel instead of mandating higher cost, polluting imported petroleum fuel.

A recent study by UC Berkeley and US Naval Academy economists found that allowing an E-15 blend could save California drivers $2.7 billion at the pump annually, which translates into approximately $0.20 per gallon every time a motorist fuels their car.

A typical California household would save about $200 per year on gasoline expenses, and for many lower income residents of the Golden State, that money could be spent on items like childcare, groceries, or prescription medications.

Moving to an E-15 blend would have an immediate impact on California’s environment as ethanol is derived from renewable sources and emits 46% fewer air pollutants than gasoline. According to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute, the US transportation sector accounts for 27 percent of US greenhouse gas emissions. Increasing California’s ethanol blend would reduce emissions and likely reduce gasoline usage in the state, while providing an immediate and measurable benefit to the state’s ambitious goal of reaching net carbon neutrality by the year 2045.

A study commissioned by CARB found that adopting E-15 in the state could cut emissions of tailpipe pollutants such as particulate matter and carbon monoxide, which cause air quality and human health problems.

“As the transition to EV’s and other zero tailpipe emission vehicles take place over the next decade, California should adopt every tool available – today – to expedite the reduction of harmful fossil fuel emissions,” said Eric McAfee, Chairman and CEO of Aemetis, Inc. “The most immediate cost-saving and environmentally beneficial step the state can take is the implementation of E-15,” added McAfee.

The adoption of E15 supports the broader goals outlined in California’s climate action plans, which include reducing dependence on fossil fuels, decreasing air pollution, and promoting the use of renewable energy. By transitioning to E15, California can make substantial progress in achieving these goals.

The steps required to allow an E-15 blend in California have been conducted, including source testing and on-road testing. Billions of miles have been driven on E-15 across the United States since 2011. CARB can adopt new rules that will allow E-15 to be sold in California as soon as 2025.

“We applaud Governor Newsom’s focus on the chronic problem of high gas prices in California, and we urge the state legislature’s special session to call on CARB to implement E-15,” said McAfee.

About Aemetis

Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Aemetis is a renewable natural gas, renewable fuel and biochemicals company focused on the operation, acquisition, development and commercialization of innovative technologies that replace petroleum-based products and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Founded in 2006, Aemetis is operating and actively expanding a California biogas digester network and pipeline system to convert dairy waste gas into Renewable Natural Gas. Aemetis owns and operates a 65 million gallon per year ethanol production facility in California’s Central Valley near Modesto that supplies about 80 dairies with animal feed. Aemetis owns and operates a 60 million gallon per year production facility on the East Coast of India producing high quality distilled biodiesel and refined glycerin for customers in India and Europe. Aemetis is developing the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel fuel biorefinery in California to utilize renewable hydrogen, hydroelectric power, and renewable oils to produce low carbon intensity renewable jet and diesel fuel. For additional information about Aemetis, please visit www.aemetis.com. READ MORE

Related articles

Excerpt from Politico Pro: It will also consider a new bill from Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris, chair of the special-session Petroleum Gasoline and Supply Committee, that would require the California Air Resources Board to complete its review of whether drivers should be allowed to use gasoline that has a higher percentage of ethanol by the end of 2025. She introduced that bill Tuesday as ABX2-9.

“We must explore all options, including looking at gasoline blends that could reduce prices and emissions,” Petrie-Norris said in a statement. READ MORE

Excerpt from Los Angeles Times: To the editor: Our legislators will soon be asked by the California Air Resources Board to consider new limits on the amount of carbon in gasoline. To do that, naturally, they asked CARB whether its earlier estimate that this could increase the price of gas by about 47 cents a gallon was still accurate. (“As Newsom urges refinery controls, California regulators consider hike in gas prices,” Oct. 10)

This is particularly important, since other analysts have said the cost increase per gallon of gas could be considerably higher.

CARB’s head Steven Cliff replied that the board is not equipped to analyze the effect of this change on retail gasoline prices. Instead, he said, it could look only at the economic impacts, including growth, job creation and public health — and on that basis, the board determined that the change is a net positive for Californians.

Can someone please tell me how it is possible to quantify the net economic benefits of a rule change when one of the most important variables is either unknown or hidden from view?

Gordon J. Louttit, Manhattan Beach

To the editor: Your article on the potential gas price increase that could result from California’s low carbon fuel standard overlooked the proven role ethanol can play.

California is the only state in the nation that caps the amount of low-cost ethanol allowed in gasoline at just 10%. Thousands of gas stations in other states sell gasoline containing 15% ethanol (called E15), often at a 15- to 30-cent-per-gallon discount to regular gas.

Indeed, a recent study by researchers from UC Berkeley and the U.S. Naval Academy found that allowing E15 could reduce gas prices by 20 cents per gallon in California, amounting to annual savings of $2.7 billion statewide.

Meanwhile, CARB’s own studies found E15 could provide significant environmental benefits by cutting emissions of the tailpipe pollutants that cause air quality and human health problems.

A bill (ABX2-9) to speed the approval of lower-cost E15 in California passed unanimously out of the state Assembly on Oct. 1 in a special session. But, in a head-scratching move, the Senate refused to consider the bill. California drivers, who pay the highest gas prices in the country, deserve better. Allowing E15 is an easy fix that can help save money and clear the air.

Geoff Cooper, Ellisville, Mo.

The writer is president and chief executive of the Renewable Fuels Assn., a trade group advocating for the ethanol industry. READ MORE

NEW Search Capability on Advanced Biofuels USA Website!

Now search not just by words, but choose up to 5 categories and 5 tags. Try it now! Click on the Advanced Search button above. READ MORE

Wheat on Repeat

by Emma Bryce (Anthropocene) ... A growing movement of researchers, farmers, and producers believe that perennial crops have unmatched potential to reform agriculture’s warped system, and are pinning their hopes—and research dollars—on the likes of Kernza to deliver that. The

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

UN Enacts Carbon Removal Standard Under Article 6.4

by Vasil Velev (Carbon Herald) The Article 6.4 Supervisory Board, the body working on creating the UN carbon market under the Paris Agreement, has finalized two key standards related to carbon removal and developing and assessing projects for a UN-supervised carbon market. The board – also

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

DOE Releases Carbon Management Strategy, Outlining Steps to Enable These Technologies to Support a Net-Zero Emissions Future Public Comment DEADLINE December 10, 2024

(U.S. Department of Energy) The Department Seeks Input to Ensure Planned Activities to Scale-Up Carbon Management Infrastructure are Enacted Responsibly and with Stakeholder Support -- The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the release of a Carbon Management Strategy for public comment. The Strategy provides

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Recommendation Report 2 -- White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council Recommendations: Carbon Management

( White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council) The WHEJAC is set forth in Executive Order 14008 to be "a Federal advisory committee that is charged with providing independent advice and recommendations on how to address current and historic environmental injustice to the

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Unable to Get Its Cosmetics Plant Project Financed, Global Bioenergies Is Now Focusing All Its Efforts on SAF oOpportunities

(Global Bioenergies/Globe Newswire) After several months of efforts, the Company has been unable to find investors for its 2,500-ton plant dedicated to the cosmetics market, in a highly unfavorable context for the financing of first-of-a-kind projects. The Company is now devoting

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Asda Invests in Two New Bio-LNG Refueling Stations

by Valerie Swiantek (NGT News) British supermarket chain Asda is investing in two new bio-LNG (liquefied natural gas) refueling facilities, as the retailer continues to make progress toward reducing overall carbon emissions. Working closely with Gasrec — a major fuel provider for commercial vehicles in the United

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $125M to Upgrade Older Diesel Engines to Cleaner and Zero-Emission Solutions that are Better for Our Communities

(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) Biden-Harris Administration Announces $125M to Upgrade Older Diesel Engines to Cleaner and Zero-Emission Solutions that are Better for Our Communities -- Today, Oct. 17, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced selections totaling nearly $125 million under the Diesel Emissions

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

How to Earn Passive Income with Sustainability Programs

by Darryl Matthews (AgWeb) There are a number of practices that can create passive income on your operation, but the level of effort and investment to implement them varies. -- ... Creating these payments requires effort and sometimes capital investments (no different

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Construction Begins on Technology Platform for Power-to-Liquid Fuels (TPP)

(German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR)) - In Leuna, Germany, DLR is building the largest ever research facility for the production of e-fuels. - The Technology Platform for Power-to-Liquid Fuels (TPP) will be used to optimise e-fuels

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Neste MY Renewable Diesel to Power Verne Data Centers’ Back-up Generators in Finland

(Neste) Neste’s renewable diesel helps Verne, a provider of sustainable data center solutions for high intensity computing, to transition its operations from fossil to renewable fuels. Verne's data centers in Helsinki, Pori and Tampere in Finland will use Neste MY Renewable Diesel™ to

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

DN AGRAR and BSOG Energy Sign a Cooperation Agreement for the Largest Biomethane Production Project in Romania

(Bucharest Stock Exchange) DN AGRAR Group (BVB: DN), the largest integrated farm in Romania, leader in the production of cow's milk, and BSOG Energy, an energy company specialized in the development of biomethane production projects in Romania, owned by Black Sea

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Phillips 66 Hit with $604.9 Million US Verdict in Fuel Trade-Secrets Case

by Blake Brittain (Reuters) Phillips denied Propel's trade secrets claims; Jury decided the case in Oakland, California -- Energy company Phillips 66 (PSX.N) owes biofuel maker Propel Fuels $604.9 million in damages for stealing Propel's trade secrets to build up its renewable-fuel capabilities, a jury

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to Fractionation of Forest Biomass Wastes

by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) A team of researchers have designed a project to support development of woody feedstocks forUniversity of Maine’s Thermal Deoxygenation pathway to produce renewable aviation fuel and chemicals. The goal of the project is to prepare woody

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

NYK Leads Consortium in Charge of Redesigning a Large “Green” Tanker

(PortalPortuario) Idemitsu Tanker, Iino Kaiun, Nippon Yusen Kaisha and Nippon Shipyard announced the development of an environmentally friendly VLCC (Very Large Crude Oil Carrier). This consortium, which conducts joint research and development on large crude oil tankers, created a design concept for

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Develops Ammonia Dual-Fuel Engine and Receives Approval from 7 Major Classification Societies

(HD Hyundai Heavy Industries) ▶ The world’s first high-pressure direct injection ammonia dual-fuel engine (model name: H22CDF-LA) ▶ Certification obtained from seven major classification societies including KR, ABS, BV, DNV, NK, LR, and RINA ▶ “We will continue to lead the ammonia-fueled shipbuilding market and drive

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Fertiglobe Becomes ADNOC’s Platform for Low-Carbon Ammonia Growth Globally

(ADNOC) ADNOC completes acquisition of majority stake in Fertiglobe, increasing its shareholding to 86.2%; Completion marks another milestone in ADNOC’s chemicals growth strategy, the expansion of its low-carbon fuels business, and its plans to become a top five global chemicals player;

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

PIL Opts for 'More Viable' LNG Dual-Fuel to Power Its New Box Ships

by Martina Li (The Loadstar) Singapore’s Pacific International Lines (PIL) is opting for LNG dual-fuelling in its newbuildings, as it believes bio-methane will emerge as a viable green fuel. Chia Yujin, PIL’s head of sustainability, decarbonisation and marine fuels, said at the

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Glander: LNG and Bio-LNG Bunker Fuel Infrastructure, Demand and Price Drivers

(Manifold Times) Big test for LNG as a marine fuel will be how quickly production of its alternatives can be scaled up, and how quickly shipowners are willing to pay extra cost for these lower-carbon fuels, says Mustafa El Zein. -- Global

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

RFA: Latest Proposal for California LCFS Updates Fundamentally Flawed

(Renewable Fuels Association) Proposed regulations updating California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard are fundamentally flawed and could significantly restrict the future use of low-carbon ethanol in the state, the Renewable Fuels Association noted in comments submitted late Wednesday to the state’s Air Resources Board

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Biofuel Boom Still Leaves US Soybean Glut

by Michael Hirtzer (Bloomberg) ... Just to the south, an enormous processing plant, with the capacity to crush 35 million bushels a year, is under development. The investment is a bid to cash in on soaring demand for renewable diesel, a fuel chemically similar

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Gevo Secures Conditional Commitment from U.S. Department of Energy Loan Programs Office for its Net-Zero 1 Sustainable Aviation Fuel Plant in South Dakota

(Gevo) This conditional commitment signals the strength of the project to finance the world’s first large-scale net-zero-emissions alcohol-to-jet production facility -- Gevo, Inc. (NASDAQ: GEVO), a leading developer of net-zero hydrocarbon fuels and chemicals, is pleased to announce it received a

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

KPI OceanConnect Targets More Ports for Marine Biofuel Sales

by Jeslyn Lerh (Reuters) Marine fuel trading house KPI OceanConnect is looking to offer biofuel for bunkering at more ports, in view of higher demand as FuelEU regulations kick in next year, a senior executive said on the sidelines of SIBCON 2024 this

October 17, 2024 Read Full Article

Ontario Conference Examines Indigenous-Led Forestry, Biomass

by Mike Stimpson (Canadian Biomass Magazine) Jason Rasevych, president of the Anishnawbe Business Professional Association and director of Waawoono Consultancy, says many communities in Northern Ontario “have been able to increase their participation in the forest sector through a process of

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

New Survey Finds Canadians Would Pay for Low-Carbon Shipping

(Canadian Biomass) A new poll by Angus Reid Institute suggests Canadians are willing to pay extra to support sustainable shipping. More than 60% of Canadians indicated they were willing to pay a premium on shipping for imported goods to offset carbon emissions in a

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Biofuel Groups Urge Flexibility in 45Z CSA Requirements

by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The USDA on Oct. 15 held a third virtual listening session as part of its public consultation on climate-smart agriculture for biofuel feedstocks. During the event, representatives of the U.S. biofuel sector advocated for flexibility in

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Greenlane Announces Biogas Desulfurization Orders as Part of International Expansion

(Greenlane) Greenlane Renewables Inc. (“Greenlane” or the “Company”) (TSX: GRN / FSE: 52G) today (October 7, 2024) announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Airdep S.r.l. (“Airdep”) has expanded its sales into the South American market, specifically in Brazil, with a first customer

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

ExxonMobil Secures Largest CO2 Offshore Storage Site in the U.S.

(ExxonMobil) ExxonMobil has secured access to over 271,000-acres in Texas state waters; ideal for CO2 storage; Agreement will directly benefit the Texas Permanent School Fund; Latest example of ExxonMobil’s leadership in building a carbon capture industry in the U.S. Spring, Texas – Exxon Mobil

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

DOE Invests $29 Million to Reduce Carbon Emissions

(U.S. Department of Energy) Projects Will Help Advance Carbon Dioxide Capture and Conversion Technologies -- The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) today announced $29 million for 12 research and development projects to fund two carbon management

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Biofuels and Batteries Gain From the System Dynamics Behind the Research

by Tim Meehan (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) How Modeling Feedback Loops Informs Analysis and Decisions Across Decarbonization Technologies  -- "When you look at renewable energy, not everything is linear," said Swaroop Atnoorkar, an analyst at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) National

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

GrowTEC Awarded $2M from Government of Canada for Phase 2 of Anaerobic Digester Expansion Project

(GrowTEC/Business Wire) EverGen Infrastructure Corp. (“EverGen” or the “Company”) (TSXV: EVGN) (OTCQX: EVGIF), is pleased to announce that Grow the Energy Circle Ltd. (GrowTEC), an operating farm scale biogas facility, has received up to $2-million from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) to

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Eco-Energy Commences Operations at its Newton, Iowa Renewable Feedstock Distribution Terminal

(Eco-Energy/Business Wire) Eco-Energy, a leading renewable energy supply chain company, has commenced operations at its newly built renewable feedstock distribution facility located in Newton, Iowa. The facility will provide Marathon Petroleum Company the ability to aggregate renewable feedstocks (e.g., distillers corn

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Petrobras to Build Its First Plant to Produce Renewable Hydrogen

(Petrobras) Unit, with an investment of R$90 million, is expected to start operating in 2026 -- Petrobras will build its first pilot plant for generating renewable hydrogen at the Vale do Açu Thermoelectric Plant, in Alto do Rodrigues, Rio Grande do Norte.

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Terviva Receives Investment from Chevron Renewable Energy Group to Scale Renewable Pongamia for Biofuel Production

(Terviva/Business Wire) Strategic relationship combines Chevron Renewable Energy Group’s industry knowledge and global reach with Terviva’s innovative, lower carbon agriculture practices to drive feedstock growth -- Terviva, Inc., an agricultural innovation company working with farmers to grow and harvest pongamia for food,

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

US$200 Million Investment: Bahía Blanca Will Have the First Sustainable Fuel Plant for Airplanes

by Gabriela Origlia (La Nacion (Google Translation)) The disbursement will be made by Grupo Bahía Energía; the complex, which will also produce ethanol and derivatives, will employ around 180 people. -- The Bahía Energía Group will invest approximately US$200 million in the first

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to Biomass Size Reduction, Drying and Densification

by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Low-cost carbon resources (agricultural residues, forest residue, and non recyclable municipal and industrial wastes) exhibit consistent challenges. Inherent physical and chemical variability in feedstocks result in excessive process downtime, and uncontrolled costs with documented failures in the industry

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Hong Kong’s Aviation Future Hinges on Sustainable Fuel Policies, Experts Say

by Eric Ng (South China Morning Post) Hong Kong must set forth policies mandating the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and incentivise supply to maintain its competitiveness as an aviation hub, according to sustainability executives. Solving the “chicken-and-egg” problem of low

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Air NZ Says by 2030 'Nearly Every Overseas Port' It Flies to Will Require It to Carry Sustainable Fuel - but Not NZ

by Eloise Gibson (RNZ) Aotearoa is one of the highest aviation emitters per capita in the world, with competition for cleaner fuels and delays on new planes among the reasons. Air New Zealand says its failure to persuade government to require airlines

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

CAA Developing Sustainable Aviation Fuel Policies for Oman

by Hibba al Kindi (Oman Daily Observer/Zawya) The CAA’s plan for adopting sustainable aviation fuel is in line with the country’s vision to achieve Net Zero by 2050 -- The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of the Sultanate of Oman is currently developing

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

ICAO and IRENA Join Forces to Accelerate Access to Financing and Implementation of Aviation Decarbonization Projects

(International Civil Aviation Organization) In a crucial step towards achieving the aviation sector's goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) have signed a landmark agreement to boost financing

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Sasol Bids to Fill Growing Demand for ‘Sustainable’ Jet Fuel

by Tony Carnie (Daily Maverick) Faced with stiff monetary penalties at European airports, the aviation industry is pushing for a major ramp-up in the production of climate-friendly jet fuel. The South African synthetic fuels giant, Sasol, hopes to benefit from this

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Higher Ethanol Blends: A Win for Corn Farmers, Consumers & the Environment

by Krista Swanson (National Corn Growers Association) Ethanol is a renewable transportation fuel that can be made from domestically grown corn. Over 98% of the gasoline currently sold in the United States contains ethanol, typically a blend that is 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline. Autos that

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

QUOTE OF THE WEEK -- Oliver Zipse

A correction of the 100% BEV target for 2035 as part of a comprehensive CO2-reduction package would also afford European OEMs less reliance on China for batteries. ... To maintain the successful course, a strictly technology-agnostic path within the policy

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

BMW CEO: Europe Must Cancel Petrol Engine Ban to Reduce Reliance on China

by by Victoria Waldersee and Gilles Gillaume (Reuters) Europe must cancel its plan to ban new fossil fuel-emitting cars from 2035 to reduce reliance on China's battery supply chain and play to its technological strengths, BMW's (BMWG.DE), chief executive said on Tuesday. Oliver

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

CapCO2 Solutions Signs MOU with Methylennium Energy for Green Methanol Production

(CapCO2 Solutions/Ethanol Producer Magazine) CapCO2 Solutions is excited to announced that we have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Methylennium Energy. Our CO2 capture and upgrade focus addresses the urgent need of ethanol plants to decarbonize – cutting their carbon intensity (CI)

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

EPA Releases 2023 Carbon Sequestration Data

by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on Oct. 15 released 2023 data collected under its Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, including data on CO2 sequestration volumes at operational carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) projects at three U.S. ethanol plants. According

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Voters See Ethanol Value, Across Party Lines

by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Each quarter, the Renewable Fuels Association works with a national polling firm to survey registered voters about their attitudes toward ethanol, policies like the Renewable Fuel Standard, and even proposed legislation like the

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

National Ethanol Conference --- February 17-19, 2024 --- Nashville, TN

The landmark 2025 event is themed “Back to Our Roots” to reflect the ethanol industry’s humble beginnings, its incredible growth, and its enduring ties to American agriculture, said RFA Board Chairman Jeff Oestmann, CEO of Aztalan Bio in Wisconsin. “Celebrating the

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Navigating Carbon Markets in Asia Pacific: Trends, Article 6, and Emerging Opportunities --- October 17, 2024 --- ONLINE

Join our in-depth webinar to explore key carbon pricing trends and policy developments across Asia Pacific markets. Learn how Article 6 is transforming carbon trading in the region and discover emerging opportunities within its evolving framework. This session offers valuable insights into

October 16, 2024 Read Full Article

Fortum and Norsk e-Fuel to Collaborate in Rauma, Finland

(Fortum) Norwegian e-fuel company Norsk e-Fuel and Fortum have agreed to reserve a 14-hectare area for a sustainable synthetic aviation fuel (eSAF) plant at the Port of Rauma in Finland. This is Norsk e-Fuel's first project outside Norway and is part

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

Trade Group Welcomes Norway’s Proposal to Reduce Biodiesel Tax

(Drivkraft Norge/Biobased Diesel Daily) The Norwegian trade association Drivkraft Norge, which represents energy and fuel companies, announced Oct. 7 that it is satisfied the government of Norway is now proposing to reduce the road-use fee on biodiesel for 2025. Changes in the

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

Clariant Signs MOU with DS Dansuk on Tonsil™ RNF Production for HVO/SAF

(Clariant) • MOU signing ceremony held with customer DS Dansuk to mark the commissioning of production of the adsorbents at Clariant’s Pohang site in Korea New dedicated production line for Tonsil RNF series, a high-performing adsorbent crucial for HVO/SAF production from used

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

TNO Begins Yearlong Test of Biodiesel Blends in Dutch Inland-Shipping Sector

(TNO/Biobased Diesel Daily) Dutch inland shipping can achieve a significant CO2 reduction in the short term by blending fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), also known as biodiesel, but there are some skeptics. In order to objectively map out any risks associated with

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

The Renaissance of Anaerobic Digestion

by Alexandra Arndt (Digester Doc/Biomass Magazine) Scientific advances of the past decade are ushering anaerobic digestion (AD) into a new era in which the technology can deliver more than just biogas, unlocking unprecedented efficiencies in clean energy production, revolutionizing environmental impact

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

RIN Generation Under the Alternative Measurement Protocol

by James Jones (QED/Biomass Magazine) ... Understandably, the entire system hinges on RINs not being logged or counted incorrectly, which many industry stakeholders have highlighted as a potential issue. A Double-Edged Sword It is for this very reason that an adjacent piece of

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

Sustainable Aviation Fuel: According to Plan

by Anna Simet (Biomass Magazine) Doubling in attendance from its debut in 2023, the North American SAF Conference & Expo drew over 500 industry stakeholders to discuss progress and double down on initiatives to reach the near- and long-term goals of

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

North American RNG Surpasses 400 Operational Facilities

(Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas/Biomass Magazine) The Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas (RNG Coalition) announces a major milestone in the growth of the renewable natural gas industry, with 433 facilities now operational across North America. This achievement represents a significant leap

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

IndianOil, EverEnviro Join Hands for Biofuel Push with 50:50 JV

(Economic Times Energy World) The agreement was signed by Santanu Gupta, Executive Director (Alternative Energy), IndianOil, and Mahesh Girdhar, MD & CEO of EverEnviro, in the presence of senior officials from both organizations. The joint venture will work towards setting up

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

Norway Datacenter Dumps Diesel Diet, Goes Veggie with Biofuel Backup

by Dan Robinson (The Register) Operator Stack Infrastructure is committed to reducing Scope 1 emissions from its facilities -- Datacenter operator Stack Infrastructure has joined the ranks of companies switching to biofuel for its backup power source in a bid to offset

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

Gadkari Reviews Industry’s Preparedness for Launch of Ethanol and Flex Fuel Vehicles

by Subhash Narayan (Mint) The minister asked automobile manufacturers to look into ways of making ethanol and flex fuels more widely acceptable. -- Minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari has asked automobile manufacturers to look into ways of making ethanol

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

Malaysia Bourse Mulls Used Cooking Oil Futures Amid Biofuel Demand

(Business Times/Bloomberg) It plans to offer a US dollar-denominated contract in lots of 25 tonnes -- Bursa Malaysia has been considering a launch of futures contract for used cooking oil, amid a growing demand for it as a biofuel feedstock. The exchange –

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

Repsol Supplies Bio-LNG to Brittany Ferries for the First Time in Spain

(Repsol) - This is the first test of its kind for the two companies, consisting of the supply of three truck-loads, totalling 60 tons of bio-LNG to be used in Brittany Ferries LNG-fuelled vessels. It is the first supply of its kind

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

India Eyes Higher Ethanol Blend Post-2025 Mandate

by Samyak Pandey (Reuters) India plans to raise ethanol blend above 20%; The program saved costs and reduced emissions while benefiting sugar industry; Bioenergy remain key for India's clean energy transition. -- The Indian government has begun discussions to develop a post-2025

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to Process Intensification in the Supply Chain

by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) A team of researchers have designed a project to utilize post-harvest physiology and chemistry tools during long-term storage and queuing to positively impact downstream processes through reduced chemical and energy input. They aim to enhance anatomical fractionation,

October 15, 2024 Read Full Article

Green Hydrogen Far Pricier than Projected

by David Trilling (The Harvard Gazette) Prices for hydrogen produced with clean energy will remain high, Harvard researchers demonstrate in the journal Joule, but the fuel may remain the only way to decarbonize some sectors. Green hydrogen is often touted as the

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

Low-cost Biodiesel Can Help to Tackle Climate Change, Pollution

by Johra Said Ali (The Standard) ... Throughout its lifecycle, biodiesel can save CO2 emissions by up to 78 per cent when compared to petroleum fuel. Biodiesel not only reduces CO2 emissions but also the production of dangerous greenhouse gases such as

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

What's Really in Your Tank? Ireland to Raise Concerns about Fraudulent Biofuel with EU Ministers

by Valerie Flynn (The Journal) The government will raise concern over palm oil waste-based biofuel, as its use here soars. -- As reported by The Journal last month, a 24% increase in biofuel use in Ireland last year was largely met with an additional

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

Host Country Agreement Signed between India and the Global Biofuels Alliance

(India Ministry of External Affairs) Shri Dammu Ravi, Secretary (ER), Ministry of External Affairs and Shri Pankaj Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas as Interim Director General of GBA signed the Host Country Agreement (HCA) between the Government of

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

Tidewater Unveils Biodiesel Facility in Pasco with USDA Grant

by Thomas Metcalf (Fox 41) Tidewater Transportation and Terminals celebrated a milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new full-service biofuel and renewable diesel distribution facility. The facility in Pasco will play a key role in the region’s shift towards cleaner energy

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

New Brand Name for Slurry and Digestate Treatment from WELTEC BIOPOWER: “Kumac” Becomes ”WELTEC BLUE WATER”

(WELTEC BIOPOWER) “WELTEC BLUE WATER” now replaces Kumac. With this new name, WELTEC BIOPOWER is responding to international market requirements for its tried and tested slurry and digestate treatment systems. In recent years, 17 plants have already been put into operation

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

Denmark Postpones Green Hydrogen Transmission Roll-out to Germany to 2031

by Louise Breusch Rasmussen and Riham Alkousaa (Reuters) Denmark will postpone the rollout of a green hydrogen transmission pipeline between western Denmark and northern Germany by three years to 2031 from 2028, the country's energy ministry said on Tuesday. Denmark has worked with

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

Japanese Group Partners with Australian State on Biofuel for Jets

by Shinya Matsumoto (The Asahi Shimbun) A consortium of a Japanese university and businesses will team up with a state government in Australia for a project to mass produce sustainable biofuel for airplanes. -- The Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology,

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

Uniper Supplies Green Power to Help Major International Industrial Gas Producer to Transform Its Energy Transition

(Uniper) Nine-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for a total of 575 GWh; Hydropower from Germany; Agreement supports decarbonisation efforts in Rhine-Ruhr industrial region -- Uniper and a major international industrial gas producer recently signed a nine-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Deliveries will start in

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to PEM CO2 Electrolyzer Scale-up

by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Twelve is developing and scaling a platform for a reactor that electrochemically transforms biogenic CO2. The company’s core innovation is a membrane electrode assembly that enables CO2 electrolysis. In this project, the company aims towards mass

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

Cometstock: Comstock Fuels Yields Are Headed for the Stars. Why?

by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Feedstock costs look more like 50 cents a gallon at the yields, based on $60 per ton for waste biomass, that have been in our reporting this year, and that’s transformative. So, it’s a comet. Why,

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

On the Way to an Emission-Free Future: OSV Coastal Liberty Operates on Green Hydrogen in the German Wadden Sea

(Fuel Cells Works/eCap Marine) First months of running eCap Marine’s containerised hydrogen-electric energy system successful -- In a significant step towards sustainability and emission-free energy sources on board, Offshore Supply Vessel Coastal Liberty has set sail on the waters of the Wadden

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

Use of Biofuels May Accelerate Emissions Reduction Targets

by Victoria Netto (Valor International) Study shows renewable sources in transport could prevent release of 800 million tonnes of CO2 by 2030 -- The use of biofuels could reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 800 million tonnes in the transport sector by

October 14, 2024 Read Full Article

E-Fuels-Only Bill Is a Slap in the Face for Aviation

(Aviation Initiative for Renewable Energy in Germany) It is not only in politicians’ Sunday speeches that it is repeatedly emphasized that sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) are essential for reducing the climate impact of aviation. However, sustainable aviation fuels are currently only

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

Emerging Science of Anaerobic Digestion Webinar Series --- November 12 and December 10, 2024 --- ONLINE

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is excited to announce an innovative series of webinars focused on the rapidly evolving field of anaerobic digestion. Hosted by Daniel Andersen, associate professor in agriculture and biosystems engineering at Iowa State University, this

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

Clean Fuels Foundation Now Accepting Applications for Sustainability Education Grant DEADLINE January 17, 2025

(Clean Fuels Alliance America) The Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation is now accepting applications for the Beth Calabotta Sustainability Education Grant. Established in 2018, the grant aims to support student scientists dedicated to sustainable research offering a $2,000 award to a deserving

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

Cathay Cargo Commemorates DB Schenker’s Membership of Its Corporate SAF Programme with a Signing Ceremony

(Cathay Pacific) DB Schenker is the newest and biggest contributor to Cathay’s carbon-reduction programme -- Cathay Cargo and DB Schenker jointly held a signing ceremony on 8 October at the airline’s Cathay City headquarters to mark the global forwarder’s membership of the

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

VTTI and Connex Intend to Develop Renewable Feedstock Pretreatment Facility in Amsterdam

(VTTI) VTTI and Connex are joining forces to develop a renewable feedstock or 'Greenstock' Pretreatment Facility (GPF) at VTTI’s terminal in Amsterdam (ETA). -- VTTI, an industry leader in energy infrastructure, and Connex, a renewable feedstocks trader, are joining forces to develop

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

Geo and GIZ Sign Partnership to Develop SAF from Biogas in Brazil

(NOVACANA (Google Translation)) In partnership with Copersucar, Geo is developing a commercial-scale plant for the production of sustainable aviation fuel -- Geo bio gas&carbon and the Brazil-Germany Cooperation for Sustainable Development signed a partnership on Tuesday, the 8th, to develop the first

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

The Digest’s 2024 Multi-Slide Guide to Electrolyzers for CO2 Conversion from BioSources

by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Researchers have initiated a project to develop electrolyzers that can convert CO2 from biorefineries to produce useful products, and save the cost of air capture. Yet, research still has not been done on testing with CO2

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

IEA Predicts 20% Growth in Renewable Fuels by 2030, but Says More Substantial Growth Is Needed to Meet Net-Zero Goals

by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The International Energy Agency on Oct. 9 published its annual Renewables market report, which for the first time includes a chapter focused on renewable fuels that outlines expected growth in liquid biofuels, including sustainable aviation

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

Masdar Allies with Norwegian Companies on Renewables and Green Hydrogen

by Aida Čučuk (Offshore Energy) Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) has signed agreements with Norwegian companies to explore clean energy opportunities with green hydrogen in focus. -- Specifically, the UAE company inked a strategic framework agreement with Equinor to enhance collaboration

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

NAMCOR Signs Memorandum of Understanding with SLB to Advance Energy Collaboration

(National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia) The companies will work together to advance sustainable energies in Namibia -- The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia, NAMCOR, is pleased to announce the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with global energy technology company SLB.

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

King of the Netherlands Inaugurates Electrolyser for Green Hydrogen Funded by LIFE

(European Commission) The LIFE project NEW HYTS aims to revolutionise heavy transport through the deployment of hydrogen-powered vehicles. -- His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands officially inaugurated a new electrolyser for green hydrogen production near Utrecht on 4 October. Developed by

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

Plug and Allied Green Execute Binding Framework Agreement for 3 GW Electrolyzer Capacity

(Plug Power) This follows recent completion of MOU and BEDP contracts; Both parties are collaborating to finalize purchase agreement in coming months -- Plug Power Inc. (NASDAQ: PLUG), a global leader in comprehensive hydrogen solutions for the green hydrogen economy, has signed

October 11, 2024 Read Full Article

FuelEU to Power Shipping’s Fast Growing Biofuels Demand

by Marcus Hand (Seatrade Maritime News) Biofuels are rapidly gaining market share for alternative marine fuels and seen as good way of complying with the FuelEU standard next year. -- Singapore biofuel sales surpass 400,000 tonnes in first eight months of the