by Camille Von Kenel and Alex Guillen (Politico) Truck manufacturers will have to sell an increasing share of zero emissions vehicles now that the EPA has approved California’s regulations. California will require more zero emission trucks on the roads after a key Biden administration approval, a move that is bound
Federal Agency/Executive Branch

On April 4, 2023, 2-3:30 pm Eastern, as part of the Green Recovery Alliance, the Center for Climate Strategies (CCS) and the Climate Group (CG) will host a webinar for states, tribes, localities, and interested stakeholders on opportunities and needs regarding applications for the upcoming US EPA Climate Pollution Reduction
New Consortium Advances Technologies that Use Renewable Electricity to Turn Carbon Dioxide into Fuel
(U.S. Department of Energy) A new consortium of five U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratories is developing an integrated portfolio of technologies that use renewable electricity to upgrade carbon dioxide (CO2) into fuels and chemicals. The CO2 Reduction and Upgrading for E-Fuels Consortium (CO2RUe) is funded by DOE’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) and
(Univeristy of Illinois at Urgana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Environment/EurekAlert!) CABBI design simultaneously treats water and recovers biogas, generating revenue and reducing GHG emissions — Wastewater from biorefineries that convert plants into fuel is full of organic materials that cannot be efficiently treated with conventional wastewater systems, making it costly
(Associated Press) A train hauling ethanol and corn syrup derailed and caught fire in Minnesota early Thursday and nearby residents were ordered to evacuate their homes, authorities said. The BNSF train derailed in the town of Raymond, roughly 100 miles (161 kilometers) west of Minneapolis, about 1 a.m., according to a statement
by Adrian Cortez (Office of Rep. Kim Schrier D-WA/Quad City Herald) U.S. Representatives Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and Chellie Pingree (D-ME) introduced the Biochar Research Network Act of 2023 to increase research funding for biochar on March 21. Biochar is a charcoal-like product created by heating organic material in a low-oxygen setting to sequester carbon,
by Beth Burmahl (Argonne National Laboratory) Alternative fuels will help the rail fleet lessen its carbon footprint — Argonne scientists will test bio- and renewable diesel fuel on a locomotive combustion test engine. In response to sustainability goals, the freight rail industry is working to boost the use of lower-carbon
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Government Accountability Office on March 27 issued a report that includes recommendations on how three federal agencies can track progress related to the Biden administration’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge. … As part of the SAF Grand Challenge, the GAO was asked
by Bill Tomson (Agri-Pulse) U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai told lawmakers last week she is putting Chief Agriculture Negotiator Doug McKalip in charge of working with Brazil to end its tariff on U.S. ethanol and now McKalip is preparing to go to there as U.S. tensions remain high over the
by Camelia Sadeghzadeh (BBC/4:08 Productions) Aviation currently leaves a major footprint on the world’s climate, producing almost 2.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Giant kelp, the fastest growing seaweed in the world, is a highly promising source for making sustainable biofuels. Could it become a viable alternative to fossil fuels to
(U.S. Department of Energy) The Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy announced a $156 million funding opportunity that will advance high impact applied research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) projects to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the U.S. industrial sector. The FOA, led by EERE’s Industrial Efficiency
(John Deere) … “When thinking about how to move toward a low-carbon future, we as an industry need to be open to a variety of solutions to meet the vast and varied needs of the off-highway market. There will be no singular solution to reaching our goal of low- and near-zero-carbon
(Office of Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME 1st)) Farming has always been a risky business. But today, extreme weather events and trade wars are creating challenges that threaten food production and jeopardize farmers’ livelihoods. We must work to keep farmers on the land and in business. We know that climate change impacts
(Agile BioFoundry) The Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO)-funded Agile BioFoundry (ABF) consortium is overseeing a funding opportunity for industry partners to utilize ABF capabilities. This funding opportunity provides resources to ABF teams to perform research on behalf of external, collaborating investigators, for developing novel microbial hosts, augmenting
(Inside EPA) EPA is fighting a legal push by Wyoming oil refiners for a stay of the agency’s denial of Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) compliance waivers, a move the refiners say would require issuance of the waivers but which EPA says could only result in a remand and no waiver
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) AgGrid Energy is one of our most admired biogas project developers, and is on a rapid expansion curve as many of the best biogas companies are right now. Rashi Akki gave this overview of the company’s promise and progress, milestones achieved and ahead, at ABLC
by Robert M. Baldwin, Mark R. Nimlos, and Yimin Zhang (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) The Propane Education and Research Council (PERC) has engaged with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to develop information that is critical to understanding the current and future landscape for renewable propane (RP) and the value

On March 21, 2023, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) announced $14 million in funding to support and optimize the production of affordable biofuels and biochemicals while significantly reducing carbon emissions. The funding opportunity announcement (FOA) addresses specific technology pathways through two topic areas: Topic Area 1: Overcoming

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small today announced two virtual events that will provide updates on funding available under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) after the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The webinars will be held over Zoom and will be led
by Riley Smith (Iowa AgriBusiness Radio Network) Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, took her first trade mission trip to Panama. She led a group of almost 30 U.S. agribusinesses, farm groups, state and regional groups, and state departments of agriculture. Taylor says this was a great
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) In one of the most heated political battles in the state, the Iowa House of Representatives on March 22 voted against the interests of the state’s biofuels industry in a 71-20 vote to tighten rules for carbon pipeline projects across the state. The bill passed
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) “We’re out of time”. … The subject was deployment vs development, whether we should go with what we have as opposed to waiting for better technology to come along. The context was the new report out from IPCC, the 2023 update on climate science. You can read it here,
by Joanne Ivancic (Advanced Biofuels USA) Every ABLC, held each Spring in Washington, DC, reveals the zeitgeist of the renewable sustainable fuels world and bits of the bioeconomy it intesects. This year was no exception with the following Key Words providing a way to summarize the thoughts and ideas of
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The Environmental Protection Agency held a virtual hearing Tuesday on the recently proposed rule for a permanent waiver to allow eight states to sell E15 year round. For ethanol stakeholders, comments boiled down to one message: EPA took too long to respond to the governors’ request and must do
(Office of Maria Cantwell (D-WA)) Tidewater Terminal Company’s Snake River Terminal will supply cleaner fuel to Eastern WA farmers, help meet new state fuel standards, and reduce carbon footprint of wheat, barley, potato harvests U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that Tidewater Terminal Company has been
(South Dakota Government) Today (March 21, 2023), Governor Kristi Noem and three of her fellow governors sent a letter to EPA Administrator Regan requesting an emergency waiver to allow for E15 this summer during driving season. Governor Kristi Noem and three of her fellow governors sent a letter to EPA Administrator

by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, the Biden Administration unveiled bold new goals for biotechnology and biomanufacturing, plus a new report — a delegation of 14 high-ranking officials are headed to ABLC 2023 this week in the capital to provide first reactions and briefings to the bioeconomy industry on the
(Advanced Biofuels USA) As Congress begins work on the upcoming Farm Bill, Advanced Biofuels USA is well aware of the fiscal restraints that might not allow for increased funding levels for renewable energy or crop development R&D at Land Grant Schools, USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) laboratories, or small R&D businesses
by Brendan Bane (Pacific Northwest National Laboratory/Phys.org) Diversification reduces risk. That’s the spirit of one key takeaway from a new study led by scientists at the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The effective path to limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius by the end of this century
by Derek Vardon & Bruno Miller (Alder Fuels/Biofuels Digest) Today, we are providing a high-level technical analysis of what we are calling Alder SAF100, a new and 100% sustainable replacement for petroleum-based jet fuel. To demonstrate the viability of reaching that crucial 100% non-fossil production objective, Alder SAF100 has been created by combining hydrocarbons
(Renewable Fuels Association) Months of regulatory delays by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have put Midwest drivers at risk of losing access to lower-cost, lower-carbon E15 this summer, the Renewable Fuels Association said at an EPA hearing today. RFA urged the agency to allow sales of the E15 fuel blend this summer, rather
(Diesel Technology Forum) The Diesel Technology Forum issued the following statement in recognition of the 50th anniversary of National Ag Day which is celebrated in communities and classrooms across the country. One day is not enough to recognize the importance of America’s Farmers to our everyday lives. America’s farms are the breadbasket that feeds
by Mark Pilling (Flight Global) Over the past six months, an Airbus Defence & Space A400M tactical transport, NH Industries NH90 multirole helicopter and a Eurofighter Typhoon have become the latest military aircraft to undertake test flights with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). They join a growing list of defence assets demonstrating the
by Luke Geiver (Ethanol Producer Magazine) With carbon capture and sequestration taking ethanol towards net-zero, a rising CCS developer is focused on working with producers that are uniquely positioned to sequester near their plant. Vault 44.01 is a company named for the industry it serves—more specifically, the greenhouse gas molecule
by Amy Westervelt (The Guardian) Insiders aren’t surprised as ExxonMobil, the last remaining proponent of green algae biofuel, ends research — Algae research was central to Exxon’s green marketing campaigns for years, and frequently criticized as greenwashing rather than a genuine research effort. But several of its former research partners told the Guardian
(National Renewable Energy Laboratory/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Made from nonpetroleum sources like waste and biomass, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) has the potential to reduce aviation greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 50 percent or more compared to fossil-derived jet fuel. The aviation industry currently produces 3 percent of total GHG emissions in the
by Anna Phillips (Washington Post) The EPA plans to grant California a waiver that will allow the state to phase out diesel-powered trucks, helping communities burdened by truck pollution — The Biden administration will approve new California rules to cut tailpipe pollution and phase out sales of diesel-burning trucks, according
(U.S. Department of Energy) Funding to Four Bioenergy Research Centers Will Help Strengthen Diversity of Domestic Clean Energy Sources, Enhance Our Energy Security, and Revitalize Rural Economies — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced $590 million to renew its four existing Bioenergy Research Centers (BRCs). This funding will help support the
(U.S. Department of Energy) Today, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy announced a $156 million funding opportunity that will advance high impact applied research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) projects to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the U.S. industrial sector. The FOA, led by
(Institute for Transportation Decarbonization) The Institute for Transportation Decarbonization (ITD) is pleased to announce a call for proposals for research to support and inform decision-makers in the federal government on policy development to accelerate the production and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The deadline for submission is April 21,
(U.S. Department of Energy) Funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Will Advance Electrolysis Technology, Reduce the Cost of Clean Hydrogen and Fuel Cells, and Provide Long-term Support for Hydrogen Hubs The Biden-Harris Administration, through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), today announced the availability of $750 million for research,
by Sonia Fernandez (University of California – Santa Barbara/Phys.Org) It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it. In this case, the “job” is the breakdown of lignin, the structural biopolymer that gives stems, bark and branches their signature woodiness. One of the most abundant terrestrial polymers on Earth,
(Strategic Biofuels/Business Wire) —Strategic Biofuels, the leader in developing negative carbon footprint renewable fuels plants, announced today that it has completed the filing of its Class VI Carbon Sequestration Well Permit Application with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (LDNR). The Class VI application
(Renewable Fuels Association) The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently concluded the latest round of its Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP), and once again the Renewable Fuels Association helped dozens of retailers apply for, and win, grant awards that will expand the availability of higher ethanol blends like E15 and E85
by Carlos Anchondo (Politico Pro Energywire) EPA Administrator Michael Regan wrote to Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards (D) about the state’s application to secure primary enforcement authority. — EPA expects to finish its review in May of Louisiana’s application to gain regulatory oversight of carbon dioxide injection wells, according to an
by Timothy P. Carney (Washington Examiner) Iowa’s ethanol industry, which exists only because of federal and state subsidies and mandates, reportedly may collapse if it cannot build massive statewide networks of pipelines for distributing and burying the carbon dioxide emitted by its ethanol plants. These infrastructure projects would require taking farmers’ land through
(Utah Clean Cities) … The Biden-Harris administration opened applications for the first round of funding for the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program. The multi-billion-dollar program will fund electric vehicle (EV) charging and alternative-fueling infrastructure in communities across the country and along designated highways, interstates, and
(United Airlines) Viridos’ technology extracts algae oil from algae for potential future production of sustainable aviation fuel; United has invested in more future SAF production than any other airline1; Viridos investment is first by airline’s new UAV Sustainable Flight Fund since its launch United wants to turn microalgae into SAF through the first
by Jean Chemnick (Politico Pro Climate Wire) The EPA administrator hinted at how draft climate rules could promote the use of hydrogen at power plants. But environmentalists contend that carbon capture is the better technology. When EPA issues draft carbon rules for power plants next month, the proposals may require
by Zack Budryk (The Hill) Maryland will become the latest state to adopt the clean-car rules that originated in California, phasing out new gas-powered car sales by 2035, Gov. Wes Moore (D) announced Monday. The Advanced Clean Cars II rule, first implemented in California in 2022 under a provision of the
by Thomas Catenacci , Houston Keene (Fox News) A group of House Republicans introduced legislation Wednesday that would restrict California’s ability to ban traditional gas-powered cars as part of the state’s electric vehicle push. The four Republicans, led by Rep. John Joyce of Pennsylvania, said the bill — the Preserving Choice in Vehicle
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) Minnesota Ag Interests Sue State on Adoption of California Zero-Emission Mandate — Agriculture, biofuels and convenience store groups allege the state of Minnesota violated the Constitution and federal law in adopting California’s zero-emissions vehicles mandate, in a new lawsuit filed in federal court Monday. California
by Stephanie Kelly (Reuters) U.S. senators reintroduced a bipartisan bill on Tuesday that would allow nationwide sales of gasoline with a higher blend of ethanol year-round, as a second heavy-weight oil trade group appeared ready to back the idea. Republican Senator Deb Fischer from Nebraska and Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar from
(Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health/Newswise) Johns Hopkins University has been selected by the U.S. Department of Transportation to lead a new University Transportation Center focused on solutions aimed at preserving the environment. The transportation sector is currently the largest contributor to climate change in the U.S. The Johns Hopkins-based
by Sharon Lerner (Pro Publica) The Environmental Protection Agency recently gave a Chevron refinery the green light to create fuel from discarded plastics as part of a “climate-friendly” initiative to boost alternatives to petroleum. But, according to agency records obtained by ProPublica and The Guardian, the production of one of
by Timothy Puko (Washington Post) For industry executives, the president’s slower approach is evidence that pragmatism is winning out. Climate activists are less than pleased. Oil and gas industry leaders say they’ve seen a big shift in tone from the Biden administration over the past year, helping to smooth over
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The U.S. Department of Energy in mid-February opened a $50 million funding opportunity to support clean energy technology deployment on Tribal lands. Projects utilizing, biomass, biogas, renewable natural gas (RNG) and renewable hydrogen systems are among those eligible to apply. Through the funding opportunity announcement (FOA),
by Katie Schroeder (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Several alcohol-to-jet projects, partnerships and technologies have been announced in the past 18 months. Ethanol Producer Magazine checks in on each, looking at where they stand and what they might ultimately achieve. … Multiple airlines forged ethanol connections—some inking formal commitments—last year as interest
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Independent Businesses Submitted More than 350 Applications for $3 Billion in Funding to Expand Domestic Fertilizer Capacity; First Round of Awards Will Spur Competition and Give U.S. Farmers More Choices and Fairer Prices U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the Department received $3
(Environmental Protection Agency) EPA grants made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will support businesses in developing and adopting pollution prevention practices that advance environmental justice and protect underserved communities Today (March 8, 2023), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of $16 million for two new

Join the U.S. Department of Energy Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) and its Feedstock-Conversion Interface Consortium (FCIC) on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm ET, for a webinar about the recently announced Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) call. This opportunity will fund competitively selected CRADAs between
(Strategic Biofuels/Business Wire) Strategic Biofuels Seeks to Further Bolster Louisiana Green Fuels Project Via US DOE Title XVII Loan Guarantee Program. The company has been invited to submit a Part II application to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Title XVII Innovative Clean Energy Loan Guarantee Program for up to $1.6
by Jeremy Dillon (E&E News/Politico Pro) Lawmakers on a House panel found some consensus Wednesday on the operation and safety of carbon dioxide pipelines, as Congress seeks to reauthorize the agency responsible for the nation’s pipeline network. The bipartisan interest at a Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittee hearing comes as backers of
by Mary Stroka (County 17) Wyoming’s U.S. Senators, Cynthia Lummis and John Barrasso, joined eight Senate Republican colleagues in asking Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm to explain the department’s process for vetting and approving Wyoming’s small refinery exemptions to the renewable fuel standard. According to a news release from
ASA CEO: Renewable Diesel Could Drive a New Era for Soybean Demand, but EPA Needs to Rethink the RFS
by Tyne Morgan (AgWeb) … The policy priorities for ASA differ year to year, but the excitement around biomass-based diesel and renewable diesel kicked into high gear during Commodity Classic last year. A year later, Censky (Steve Censky, American Soybean Association CEO) says soybean farmers are concerned with what EPA’s recent RFS proposal could
(U.S. Department of Energy) Department Also Announces BioPreferred® Program “Excellence in Procurement” Award Winners for 2022 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today kicked off the inaugural National Biobased Products Day and highlighted the accomplishments of people and organizations working to improve sustainability within the federal government. “By designating March
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Wind, Hydrogen and Fuels — they have a lot of cross impact, not just in the area of eFuels. Projects like Grön Fuels in Louisiana, and Gevo’s Net Zero One in South Dakota are showing that technologies like wind energy can drive down the carbon
(Renewable Fuels Association) In formal written comments submitted today to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Renewable Fuels Association called for changes to the draft version of the Third Triennial Report to Congress on the environmental impacts of the Renewable Fuel Standard. “Overall, a considerable amount of research is reflected in the external
(Environmental Protection Agency/Federal Register) Pursuant to provisions specified by the Clean Air Act (CAA), governors of eight states submitted petitions requesting that EPA remove the 1-pound per square inch (psi) Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver for summer gasoline-ethanol blended fuels containing 10 percent ethanol (E10). This action acts on those requests
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) The attorneys general of Nebraska and Iowa announced their intent to sue the EPA on its proposed E15 rule for eight states, in a certified letter delivered to EPA Administrator Michael Regan on Monday. The states asked the agency to change the effective date of
by Christy Sarkis (SimpliFlying) Gregory Constantine, Co-Founder and CEO of Air Company in Conversation with Shashank Nigam — Welcome to Season 3 of Sustainability in the Air, the world’s first podcast dedicated to sustainable aviation. Through in-depth conversations with top aviation leaders, we break through the clutter and provide a clear roadmap

(Federal Trade Commission/Federal Register) FTC to Host Workshop on “Recyclable” Claims as Part of its Ongoing Review of the Agency’s Green Guides — The Federal Trade Commission will host a workshop on May 23, 2023, in Washington, DC, to examine “recyclable” adverting claims as part of its recently announced review of
by Lynn L. Bergeson and Carla N. Hutton (B&C Biobased and Sustainable Chemicals Blog) On February 16, 2023, Representative Randy Feenstra (R-IA) introduced a legislative package that includes bills regarding researching the potential of biofuels to power jet engines and developing a commercially viable fuel cell system for cars and trucks
by Kevin Crowley, David Wethe and Mitchell Ferman (Bloomberg/Yahoo) … Oil executives who in years past were rewarded for investing in gigantic, long-term energy projects are now under the gun to funnel cash to investors who are increasingly convinced that the sunset of the fossil-fuel era is nigh. For the first
(OPIS via Renewable Fuels Association/Securities and Exchange Commission) PBF Energy Inc. incurred $1.226 billion in Renewable Identification Numbers credit costs in 2022, nearly 41% more than what it paid to comply with the Renewable Fuel Standard in 2021, the refiner said in a Thursday filing with Securities and Exchange Commission.
by Katie Peikes (Iowa Public Radio) … But the federal policy may affect endangered species and their necessary habitat when farmers convert land into cropland to grow more corn, which is processed into ethanol, according to a new analysis in the journal Biological Conservation. “When you plow up a grassland to plant additional
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) Starting on March 5 the state of Arizona will allow E15 sales in the Phoenix area as part of a final rule issued by the state. The Arizona Department of Agriculture Weights and Measures Services Division will allow E15 to be sold there as part of
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In California, members of the Ben Harvey High-Performance Fuels fan club will applaud the appearance of a most interesting paper on designer jet fuels, these are derived from Isoprene and α-Olefins — what’s most interesting from the gang at the Navy’s China Lake R&D center
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, groups including Animal Wellness Action, the Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM), and the National Dairy Producers Organization applauded U.S. Reps. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., and Dina Titus, D-Nev., and U.S. Sens. Mike Lee, R-Utah, Cory Booker, D-N.J., Rand Paul, R-Ky., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Current plastics waste management and recycling approaches are limited. Recycled plastics often lower quality and value; Mechanical recycling not applicable to all polymers; and, there is little economic incentive for plastics reclamation. Can we apply expertise in biomass conversion to develop economically viable, sustainable solutions for
by Mike Soraghan (E&E News Energywire) A complicated question is looming in the Midwest over plans to build thousands of miles of carbon dioxide pipelines: Who would regulate them? The answer could affect the Biden administration’s hopes for a massive buildup of carbon sequestration projects, which would in many cases be
(Office of Governor Kim Reynolds (R-IA)) Today (March 2, 2023), Gov. Reynolds received the Renewable Fuels Association’s All-Industry Award and addressed the National Ethanol Conference. Below are excerpts from her remarks: “Receiving the All-Industry Award is a personal honor and a humbling validation of our many years spent fighting for renewable
by Steve Davies (Agri-Pulse) Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds says she will do whatever she can, working with other Midwestern governors, to get E15 approved for use this summer. She also describes carbon sequestration as critical to the ethanol industry’s future, despite the controversy over pipelines in her state. READ MORE
by David L. Chandler (MIT News) A new method for removing the greenhouse gas from the ocean could be far more efficient than existing systems for removing it from the air. … Recently, the possibility of removing carbon dioxide directly from ocean water has emerged as another promising possibility for
(Renewable Fuels Association) A new analysis from a renowned carbon accounting firm finds that the greenhouse gas emissions reductions achieved under the Renewable Fuel Standard far exceed the GHG savings originally projected by EPA. In the 15 years since the RFS was expanded, the use of biofuels under the program has
by Mark Dorenkamp (Brownfield Ag News) Sustainable aviation fuel could soon become a viable market for ethanol producers. Leigh Abrams with global fuel supplier Honeywell took part in a panel at the National Ethanol Conference in Orlando Wednesday and said there’s been a shift in the renewable fuels space the past two years.
by Mark Fischetti (Scientific American) As U.S. president, Jimmy Carter championed renewable energy, conservation and other then fringe efforts that are powerhouses today — … Carter may also be the politician who, more than any other, changed the country’s energy future. Under his four years of American leadership, landmark events and
by Dimitar Alimaskoski (BIO.News) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) held the 99th Agricultural Outlook Forum last week, where many speakers highlighted the potential of biotechnology and bio-based products. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack opened the event by promoting climate-smart agriculture, sustainable aviation fuel, and other bio-based products for people and the planet. USDA’s $3
(Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition) The Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC) received the Workforce Development Leadership Award from the US Department of Clean Energy Clean Cities Program for outstanding work building a green jobs workforce in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia region. GWRCCC is a public-private partnership that
by Joseph E. Harmon (Argonne National Laboratory) Scientists create computational model for identifying low-cost catalysts that convert biomass into fuels and useful chemicals with low carbon footprint. … A major stumbling block at present is lack of effective, low-cost catalysts needed to transform biomass into biofuel or other useful products. Researchers
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is making $250 million available to develop innovative strategies to cut climate pollution and build clean energy economies. These planning grants, through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), are the first tranche of funding going to states, local governments, Tribes, and territories from
(Renewable Fuels Association) The Renewable Fuels Association released its 2023 Ethanol Industry Outlook and Pocket Guide today during the 28th annual National Ethanol Conference in Orlando. The annual publications serve as the go-to source of ethanol industry information, facts, and statistics. In 2022, the U.S. ethanol industry regained the same momentum that fueled its remarkable
by Jody Heemstra (DRG News) Data released this week (Feb. 28, 2023) by the U.S. Energy Information Administration for 2022 show that ethanol volumes continued to recover from the pandemic-affected levels of 2020 and that the ethanol blend rate (i.e., the national average ethanol content of gasoline) hit a record 10.39
(Office of Senator John Thune (R-SD)) Senators’ bipartisan letter urges President Biden to continue the year-round sale of E15 fuel to help restore American energy security. U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today led a bipartisan group
by Jennifer A Dlouhy (Bloomberg) … The administration is set to outline its plans to formally propose the change soon, setting the change in motion in time for next year’s summer driving season, according to people familiar with the matter who asked not to be identified before a public announcement.
(U.S. Departments of Energy, Transportation and Housing and Urban Development and the Environmental Protection Agency) This Blueprint offers a whole-of-government approach to transform the transportation sector and sets forth an interagency call to action to coordinate and work effectively together. Achieving our goals will require close cooperation with industry, local, regional,
(U.S. Department of Energy) Supported by the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (“BIL”), the National Transmission Needs Study (“Needs Study”) provides information about capacity constraints and congestion on the nation’s electric transmission grid. Formally known as the National Electric Transmission Congestion Study (“Congestion Study”), this report functions as DOE’s triennial state of the grid
by Ron Kotrba (Biobased Diesel Daily) … The biobased diesel industry took that punch Dec. 1 when U.S. EPA finally released its “set” proposal for the Renewable Fuel Standard. … Heading into the RFS set process, hopes were high. Many U.S. renewable diesel projects came online in 2022, proving the
by Daniel Cusick (Politico Pro Climatewire)Brooklyn-based Air Co. — known for climate-friendly vodka and CO2-based hand sanitizers — makes a big leap into national security with a contract for sustainable aviation fuel. A technology firm that specializes in climate-conscious fuels and spirits will receive up to $65 million from the
(Renewable Fuels Association) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Third Triennial Report to Congress on the environmental impacts of the Renewable Fuel Standard is still a work in progress that needs to be vetted carefully and refined, the Renewable Fuels Association noted in comments during a peer review meeting this morning. “Overall, a considerable amount of
by Jim Wiesemeyer (AgWeb) The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on Friday completed its review of eight states requests to remove the volatility waiver provided under law for ethanol blends—the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) waiver of 1 pound per square inch (PSI). Removing the waiver would allow sales of E15 fuel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The USDA Western Regional Research Center has ~350 people, ~45 in bioproducts & biofuels. It’s part of the Agricultural Research Service, the ARS is the in-house research arm of the USDA. They partner with companies and industry groups to take bioproducts to market. According to
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Inflation Reduction Act provides nearly $40 billion for USDA over the next 10 years to improve life and livelihoods in rural communities. Specific investments include: $19.3 billion for climate-smart agriculture on farms, ranches, and forests; $13.4 billion to lower costs for families and support
by John Kingston (Freight Waves) … With renewable diesel and biodiesel becoming ever more important parts of the supply chain, government policies on incentivizing those fuels’ production or mandating their use become significant. David Fialkov, the executive vice president of government affairs for both the National Association of Truck Stop
by Ben Lefebvre (Politico Pro) The Energy Department said Thursday it is offering up to $2.5 billion to fund carbon capture and storage technology development projects. Details: The DOE, using funds made available in the bipartisan infrastructure law, will offer up to $1.7 billion toward six projects that would demonstrate commercial-scale carbon capture
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service offers loan guarantees, grants, and technical assistance support of the bioeconomy and access to capital for Commercialization of emerging technologies; Production of biofuels and renewable chemicals and manufacturing of biobased products; Service, supply, and marketing industries; Infrastructure; and, USDA’s BioPreferred® program
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa, in February reintroduced three bills that aim to support the U.S. biofuels industry by comparing the costs of electric vehicle (EVs) and flex fuel vehicle (FFVs) fleets, supporting research and development for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and supporting the development of
(National Renewable Energy Laboratory/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The pathway that leads us away from unsustainable fossil fuel consumption is not straight and narrow but filled with many branches of possibilities. One of those branches—carbon-negative production of biofuels and biochemicals—is the focus of a biosystems design project recently launched by the National Renewable
by Vanessa Suarez and Alyson Lee (Carbon 180) 2022 was another invigorating year for carbon dioxide removal (CDR), with historic milestones like the passage of the biggest federal climate deal in history and over $1 billion authorized for carbon removal research, development, and demonstration (RD&D). Congress closed out this monumental year with a massive $1.7
(Christianson PLLP/Biomass Magazine) Christianson PLLP is proud to announce that the U.S. EPA has approved their Quality Assurance Program (QAP) protocol for biodiesel and renewable diesel producers participating in the Renewable Fuel Standard. Christianson PLLP is now one of only three approved QAP providers in the world and the first QAP
by Erin Voegele (SAF Magazine) The government of Japan on Feb. 1 issued proposed biofuel standards for 2023-2027 that address both ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). A public comment period is open through March 2, with the new standards scheduled to take effect April 1, 2023. A report filed with
(United Airlines/PR Newswire) Investment vehicle supports start-ups focused on the reduction of carbon emissions in aviation through sustainable aviation fuel research, technology and production; Fund starts with more than $100 million investment from United and its inaugural corporate partners like JPMorgan Chase, GE Aerospace, Honeywell, and Air Canada; Customers can now see an
(KBR/PR Newswire) KBR (NYSE: KBR) announced today that it has launched Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) technology in alliance with Swedish Biofuels AB, a technology developer and pioneer in cutting-edge research on biofuels. The alliance extends KBR’s decarbonization and energy transition portfolio into the aviation sector with a differentiated SAF offering. In addition
by Addy Bink (The Hill) … Depending on the pump, you could find yourself with as many as four or five different options, including numbers ranging from 85 to 93 or terms like “super unleaded” or “supreme” – the selection can be overwhelming. First, it’s important to understand what those numbers
(Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Sales of E15, a gasoline blend containing 15 percent ethanol, hit a record 171 million gallons in Minnesota in 2022, according to a new Renewable Fuels Association analysis of data from the Minnesota Department of Commerce. This represented a 31 percent increase over the prior year
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on Feb. 16 released data showing that two small refinery exemption (SRE) petitions have been filed under the Renewable Fuel Standard over the past month. A total of 24 SRE petitions are now pending, up from 22 that were pending as of mid-January.
by Lydia Johnson (Agri-Pulse) Iowa Republican Sen. Joni Ernst is pressing for legislation allowing use of E15 throughout the year in the face of delayed action from the Environmental Protection Agency. Speaking on this week’s Agri-Pulse Newsmakers, Ernst discussed her work pressuring the Biden Administration to take action against Mexico in response to
(White House) Since President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, his Administration has hit the ground running to deliver investments that change people’s lives for the better and get America moving again. The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to making funding opportunities accessible and transparent, so communities across America know what
(Renewable Fuels Association) The use of science-based, consistent and transparent lifecycle analysis methods will be crucially important in implementing the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act, the Renewable Fuels Association said in comments submitted Friday to the Department of Treasury. RFA’s comments were in response to
(Port of Corpus Christi) The US Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstration has encouraged both the Port of Corpus Christi Horizons Clean Hydrogen Hub (HCH2) and Trans Permian (Trans Permian) H2Hub to submit full applications through the DOE Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs Program. Today, the Port of Corpus Christi and
by Aydali Campa (Inside Climate News) McDonough County residents are asking officials to stand their ground as Navigator offers payments totaling up to $18.9 million to the county in exchange for its support. — A farming county in Western Illinois doesn’t usually get many attendees at its board meetings. However, audiences—and
(Agri-Pulse Newsmakers) New figures from the Congressional Budget Office added new layers to the farm bill discussion this week Senate Ag Committee member and Iowa Republican Joni Ernst joins Newsmakers to offer her thoughts on the upcoming legislation as well as her thoughts on the prospects for legislative or regulatory changes
by Brian Jennings (American Coalition for Ethanol) With its D.C. fly-in happening at the end of March, the American Coalition for Ethanol’s CEO is optimistic about the industry’s ability to make progress on higher ethanol blends, both E15 and E85, and laser focused on making it happen. … For example,
(National Science Foundation) PROGRAM SOLICITATION NSF 23-558 The Accelerating Research Translation (ART) program is an NSF-wide endeavor that welcomes proposals from all scientific, technological, and engineering fields. In the remainder of this solicitation, the program will be referred to as ART. Any proposal submitted in response to this solicitation should be
by Greg Potter and Glenn Farris (Lipiferm Scientific andFarris Advisory Services/Lee Enterprises Consulting/Biofuels Digest) On September 12, 2022, President Joe Biden issued an Executive Order to Advance Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Innovation to support solutions in health, climate change, energy, food security, agriculture, supply chain resilience, and national and economic security. This
(U.S. Department of Energy) In December, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) announced its Notice of Intent (NOI) to issue two funding opportunities for optimizing the production of biofuels and bioproducts. BETO has compiled a Teaming Partner List to facilitate the formation of new project teams for
(Global Bioenergies) Global Bioenergies has the perspective to produce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (“SAF”) through its bio-isobutene technology, and has worked these last years on the ASTM international certification procedure. The balloting process, a key step for such certification, is now scheduled. How it works: Air transportation industry requires the fuel it
by Josh Fisher (Fleet Owner) The resolution, backed by 34 Senate Republicans, challenges the Environmental Protection Agency’s more stringent regulations on heavy-duty vehicle emissions. The bill’s lead sponsor says the EPA’s rules will just keep older equipment on the road longer. A group of Republican senators is trying to overturn
by Maxine Joselow (Washington Post) These House Democrats want the farm bill to be a ‘huge climate win’ — … Rather, the farm bill — the five-year reauthorization of hundreds of billions of dollars in agriculture and food programs — could help farmers tackle the climate crisis while feeding the

(U.S. Department of Energy) Are you a recent graduate looking to start a career in the federal government? Learn about joining the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) through the Pathways Program and become a Clean Energy Champion. This program helps individuals who have graduated
(U.S. Department of Transportation) The program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing. Program
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) · SAF and the ICAO LTAG Report on Future Trends in International Aviation CO2 Emissions Dr. James Hileman and Dr. Anna Oldani (FAA) READ MORE
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) · Regional Projects: Accelerating SAF Project and Supply Chain Development through Rural Business Development Grants and Bioeconomy Development Presentation PDF Opportunity Zones Webinar Recording Todd Campbell (Clean Economy Works) Jordan Solomon (Ecostrat) READ MORE
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) SAF R&D at Sandia National Laboratories (Presentation PDF) Webinar Recording Anthe George (Sandia National Laboratories) Ryan Davis (Sandia National Laboratories) Alexander Landera (Sandia National Laboratories) Isaac Ekoto (Sandia National Laboratories) READ MORE
by Luke Geiver (Ethanol Producer Magazine) E30 could be the future of ethanol. The blend has so much going for it, even if it’s not yet in widespread use. For starters, E30 provides an engine with more octane per gallon when compared to regular unleaded, E10 or even E15, which
by Maxine Joselow (Washington Post) Nikki Haley is jumping into the 2024 presidential race with a mixed climate record — Nikki Haley, a former United Nations ambassador and governor of South Carolina, announced Tuesday she is running for president, becoming the first major Republican rival to officially challenge Donald Trump. Climate change isn’t expected to
(Environmental Protection Agency) Inflation Reduction Act program puts public and private capital to work in communities combatting climate change, creating economic prosperity for all — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced initial guidance on the design of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) program, created by President Biden’s Inflation
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Department of Energy on Jan. 30 awarded $131 million for 33 carbon management projects. At least four of the funded projects specifically address carbon capture related to bioenergy and biofuels. The DOE awarded more than $8.84 million to the Tulare County Carbon Storage
(Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)/Phys.Org) A study led by the Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA) and the Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies (IMEDEA CSIC-UIB), both belonging to the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), has shown that injecting billions of tons of atmospheric CO2 (carbon dioxide) underground has a
by Jaclyn Trop (Robb Report) Carbon offsets, even when legit, can “still be perceived as a ‘stab in the dark,” says one industry expert. From biofuels to battery-powered aircraft, the aviation industry is searching for ways to shrink its carbon footprint. … Last year, a coalition of business-aviation leaders made a
by Emily Pontecorvo (Grist) When Congress passed an omnibus spending bill in December, it included a bit of bipartisan climate legislation that had been languishing on the Hill since its introduction in 2020. The Growing Climate Solutions Act, supported by climate advocates and farmers alike, was devised to get the nation’s
(U.S. Department of Energy) DOE’s First Ever Agency-Related Foundation Will Accelerate the Development of New Clean Energy Technologies, Help Communities Unlock the Benefits of a Clean Energy Future — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today released a Request for Information (RFI) seeking public and stakeholder input on the Department’s first
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) RFA’s view is that SAF production presents a major new market opportunity for ethanol producers, as the lifecycle carbon footprint of ethanol continues to shrink and the economics of ethanol-to-jet fuel processes continue to improve. Ethanol companies recently penned a letter to President Biden, in which
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service today announced it will offer $41 million through the 2023 Wood Innovations Grant and 2023 Community Wood Grant programs to spark innovation and create new markets for wood products and renewable wood energy. Made possible in part by President Biden’s Bipartisan
by Liz Hampton (Reuters) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is moving too slowly to allow states to permit and oversee carbon-reduction projects, according to Louisiana’s governor, slowing millions of dollars in investments designed to tackle greenhouse gas reduction. Louisiana and other top oil-producing states say they can speed up permitting
by Maria Gerveni, Scott Irwin, Todd Hubbs (University of Illinois and U.S. Department of Agriculture/FarmDocDaily) Biomass-based diesel has long played an important role in compliance with the U.S. Renewable Fuels (RFS) mandates (e.g., farmdoc daily, July 19, 2017). The two main types of biomass-based diesel fuels used to comply with the RFS mandates
White House Wants to Hear from You about Its “New Bold Goals and Priorities to Advance American Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing”
by Joanne Ivancic (Advanced Biofuels USA) “You can do good and do well,” concluded Jim Lane, editor and publisher of the Daily Digest at the Presidential Forum on Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Innovation which opened the Advanced Bioeconomy Leadership Conference in Washington, DC, Wednesday afternoon, March 22, 2023. In cooperation with the