by David Hallberg, President (Dakota Ag Energy/Biofuels Digest) … Which brings us back to my thesis—as the pendulum swings back to internal combustion engines the quest for low carbon isn’t going to disappear. … A nationwide E30 Clean Octane standard This triggered a few thoughts about how our petroleum refinery
Federal Regulation
(Inside EPA) The White House has begun reviewing EPA’s draft proposed multi-pollutant emissions standards for passenger vehicles and some larger trucks, offering the latest indication that the agency is on track to release the plan by the end of March as outside groups sharpen their advocacy about the stringency of
(National Business Aviation Association) A coalition of seven aviation stakeholder organizations has formally submitted comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed endangerment finding of lead in aviation gasoline (avgas). The coalition reaffirmed its support for removing lead from avgas through a safe and smart transition. In its comments, the
(Roll Call) Aviation accounts for 10 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions — a figure expected to triple by 2050 … Trucking industry representatives have raised concerns that a larger reliance on SAF will take away key feedstocks from biodiesel, an alternative fuel that’s already been used for years. Biodiesel
by Anna Simet (Biomass Magazine) The RFS Power Coalition has been pursuing inclusion of biomass-based power in the federal Renewable Fuel Standard for longer than a decade. … Despite a provision in the 2007 statute that that nonliquid fuels—renewable electricity from biomass or renewable natural gas (RNG), for example—could be deemed
by Steve Whaley (Propane Education and Research Council/ACT News) For decades, fleet owners have relied on propane autogas as a powerful, low-carbon energy source to fuel everything from school buses to delivery vehicles, taxis to paratransit fleets and all kinds of medium-duty vehicles in between. The clean energy source has reduced
(Inside EPA) EPA officials are emphasizing that their upcoming multi-pollutant standards for light- and medium-duty vehicles starting in model year 2027 will continue to impose tougher greenhouse gas requirements on internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles even amid a potentially transformative push toward electric vehicles (EVs). The statements come as industry
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on Jan. 19 released data showing that 10 new small refinery exemption (SRE) petitions have been filed under the Renewable Fuel Standard over the past month. A total of 22 SRE petitions are now pending, including two that were previously declared a
by David Ioconangelo (E&E News/Politico Pro) A new report says that clean hydrogen isn’t safe if used in gas pipelines. The industry disagrees. The Biden administration’s support for “clean” hydrogen is igniting a debate about how the fuel would be transported, and whether moving it through pipelines would be safe.
(Environmental Protection Agency) Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it is seeking public comment on its proposal to address environmental justice, climate change, and PFAS contamination in its National Enforcement and Compliance Initiatives (NECIs). Every four years, EPA selects national initiatives to focus resources on serious and widespread environmental
by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) … (T)he Renewable Fuels Association remains focused on solidifying year-round access to E15, building export markets and moving incrementally closer to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. … In December, the Environmental Protection Agency proposed RFS volumes through 2025 that provide certainty and
(Inside EPA) A panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit is poised to hear oral argument in refiners’ lawsuit targeting EPA’s extended timetable for complying with renewable fuel standard (RFS) mandates, a measure ostensibly designed to help refiners that has nonetheless resulted in unachievable,
by Chris Knight (Argus Media) Shell, Phillips 66 and Chevron are among the oil companies seeking at least a one-year delay, until 1 May 2024, for a fuel specification change in eight states intended to support continued year-round sales of 15pc ethanol gasoline (E15). The delay request came in an industry-organized
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on Jan. 12 approved a fuel pathway filed by LanzaJet Inc. under the Renewable Fuel Standard that will allow the company’s biorefinery near Soperton, Georgia, to generate D4 biomass-based diesel renewable identification numbers (RINs) for renewable jet fuel and renewable diesel produced
(Clean Fuels Alliance America) Eighteen Clean Fuels speakers testify at public hearing on the proposed RFS volume — Today, Clean Fuels Alliance America and its members testified at the Environmental Protection Agency’s “Public Hearing for RFS Standards for 2023–2025 and Other Changes,” held via teleconference. Clean Fuels staff expressed frustration
(U.S. Department of Transportation) Landmark Blueprint Will Advance the President’s Clean Transportation Agenda, Slashing Consumer Costs, Improving Public Health, and Increasing the Nation’s Energy Security — The Biden-Harris Administration today released the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization. Developed by the Departments of Energy, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and the Environmental
by Mark Dorenkamp (Brownfield Ag News) … Executive director Brian Werner says the Minnesota Biofuels Association was among several state renewable energy groups recently on a call with EPA to press for approval of a petition filed by eight Midwestern governors that would place E10 and E15 on equal regulatory footing
(Renewable Fuels Association) Proposed volume obligations for 2023-2025 bolster the Renewable Fuel Standard and provide growth opportunities for the ethanol industry, the Renewable Fuels Association said this morning in verbal testimony provided at an Environmental Protection Agency hearing. “Overall, we believe the proposed ‘Set’ rule establishes a firm foundation for the future
(E&E News Energy Wire) Excerpt from E&E News Energy Wire: Many of the world’s largest energy companies and a Bill Gates-led group are joining an industry-led initiative to measure and map the emissions footprint of “clean” hydrogen, underscoring the financial stakes linked to the fuel’s climate profile. The Open Hydrogen Initiative (OHI)
(Renewable Fuels Association) A new survey of registered voters shows robust support for ethanol and the Renewable Fuel Standard, while also revealing significant opposition to policies that ban liquid fuels or mandate electric vehicles. The poll was conducted for the Renewable Fuels Association by Morning Consult. “As the new Congress settles
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) This week on ABLC Connect we looked at the policies, projects, players, raw materials and end–use demand for SAF — from field to wing, we have the current projects under construction, the Value Stack, a supply forecast, and the latest on the SAF Grand Challenge,
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) New Standards Demonstrate President Biden’s Leadership to Reduce Air Pollution that Threatens Communities — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing a proposal to strengthen a key national ambient air quality standard (NAAQS) for fine particle pollution, also known as PM2.5, to better protect communities,
(Bergeson & Campbell) … At a political level, the Republicans’ narrow control of the U.S. House of Representatives will almost certainly invite a greater degree of oversight of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) actions, particularly with respect to implementation of the 2016 amendments of the Toxic Substances Control Act. As discussed
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Where does forestry fit into the RFS and with the biofuels industry, asks Lee Enterprises Consulting’s Larry Sullivan in this enlightening tour of the past, present and future of forest-based feedstocks. Sullivan goes back to the Forest and Agricultural Sector Optimization Model or FASOM followed
by Currey McCullough (RFD TV) … President and CEO, Geoff Cooper says out the gate he is not expecting much activity on Capitol Hill when it comes to renewable fuels or energy, largely due to a split Congress. He says the group expects hearings and other activity surrounding the Renewable Fuel
(Biodiesel Magazine) … Recordkeeping challenges in renewable diesel aren’t new, but the struggle to balance the desire to incentivize production of low-carbon-intensity (low CI) fuels without harming collectors or tolerating fraud has come to a head. The following is what stakeholders need to know about the regulations. The collection and
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The White House Office of Management and Budget on Jan. 4 published its 2022 Fall Unified Agenda and Regulatory Plan, confirming the expected timeline on federal rulemakings related to the Renewable Fuel Standard, E15 sales and the Biopreferred program. According to the agenda, the U.S. EPA
by John McCracken (Grist) The agency wants more ethanol, biogas, and wood pellet power in the nation’s fuel mix. But is that actually a good thing? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed new standards for how much of the nation’s fuel supply should come from renewable sources. The proposal, released last month,
by Allen Schaeffer (Diesel Technology Forum) … The year began with a virtual debate hosted by Mobility Impact Partners, where DTF represented the bold and bright future for internal combustion engines vs. electrification (UC Davis) vs hydrogen (Toyota) in trucking. Results of the online survey that followed the session showed that a majority

Join representatives from the departments of Energy, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as key transportation industry leaders, for a discussion on the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization. Moderated by DOE Deputy Assistant Secretary Michael Berube, the panel will feature U.S. Deputy Energy
by Corey Rosenbusch (The Fertilizer Institute (TFI)/Agri-Pulse) … In fact, over half of all food grown around the world today, for both people and animals, is made possible only through the responsible use of fertilizer. As the world population continues to grow, the need for sustainability produced fertilizer will only
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) 2023 will shape up as a major year in the permitting and development of carbon pipelines across the Midwest and Plains states. The Minnesota and South Dakota Public Utilities Commissions each this week will examine the permits of major carbon pipeline projects. The Minnesota PUC is
(Environmental Protection Agency/Federal Register) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the public comment period for the draft document titled, “Biofuels and the Environment: Third Triennial Report to Congress (External Review Draft).” The document was prepared by EPA’s Office of Research and Development (ORD) and Office of Air and Radiation
by Emily Skor (Growth Energy) … By any measure, 2022 was a banner year for biofuel advocates in Washington, D.C. We secured new funding for blending infrastructure, critical tax incentives for clean energy, a summer waiver for E15 sales, and a stronger Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Our industry also delivered
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) These slides were presented by Digest editor Jim Lane for the December 22 episode of ABLC CONNECT, and focused on the Drivers, Margins, Project List. Value Stack, Mandates, Policies, Tax Credits, Supply Crunch, and Hot Projects Of The Sector. READ MORE WATCH PRESENTATION Renewable Diesel
(Renewable Fuels Association) The Renewable Fuels Association’s annual review of vehicle owner’s manuals and warranty statements indicates that E15 is explicitly approved by the manufacturer for use in the vast majority of model year 2023 cars and light trucks. Notably, for the first time, Mitsubishi lists E15 as an approved fuel
(Renewable Fuels Association) The Renewable Fuels Association today applauded Missouri Gov. Mike Parson for notifying the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that he is taking action to allow the year-round sale of lower-carbon, lower-cost E15 in the Show-Me State. Missouri is the tenth state to send such a notification to EPA. Gov. Parson is
by David Iaconangelo (Politico Pro) The Treasury Department is expected to release a framework that could determine whether renewable hydrogen is a successful climate tool or a high-emitting fuel. — The Treasury Department is weighing new requirements for “green” hydrogen producers, creating schisms among energy groups about how to ensure the
(BioCycle Magazine) On December 1, the U.S. EPA released a proposed rulemaking under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program, which includes a long-awaited regulatory framework to generate credits (“eRINs”) from biogas projects, including anaerobic digestion (AD) facilities, that produce renewable electricity for electric vehicles. … EPA’s proposed eRINs rule expands
(Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)/Federal Register) The National Biotech and Biomanufacturing Initiative (NBBI) identified biotechnology regulation clarity and efficiency as a priority of the Administration. Thus, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)—on behalf of the primary agencies that regulate the products of biotechnology, the U.S.
(Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)/Federal Register) Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Initiative (NBBI) to advance biotechnology and biomanufacturing towards innovative solutions in health, climate change, energy, food security, agriculture, and supply chain resilience, and to advance national and economic security. Biotechnology and biomanufacturing offer new opportunities to strengthen supply chains and
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on Dec. 20 released a final analysis on the price of renewable identification numbers (RINs) and small refineries in response to a recommendation included in a recent U.S. Government Accountability Office report. The final analysis confirms the EPA’s conclusion that small refineries
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) Beginning in Model Year 2027, EPA’s Clean Trucks Plan will safeguard clean air for millions in communities overburdened by dangerous pollution — Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized the strongest-ever national clean air standards to cut smog- and soot-forming emissions from heavy-duty trucks beginning with
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA released updated small refinery exemption (SRE) data on Dec. 15, reporting that one new SRE petition was filed under the Renewable Fuel Standard in the past month. A total of 10 SRE petitions are now pending. The newly filed petition seeks an
(U.S. Internal Revenue Service) The Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service today issued a notice regarding the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) credit. This is a new credit created by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. It applies to a qualified fuel mixture containing sustainable aviation fuel for certain sales or uses
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) Ethanol Group Asks EPA’s Regan to Hold Hearing on Multi-Year RFS in Midwest — With the EPA content to host one, maybe two, virtual public hearings on the agency’s latest multiyear Renewable Fuel Standard proposal, the head of an ethanol interest group on Monday asked
(Bergeson & Campbell) The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced on December 14, 2022, that it is seeking public comment on potential updates and changes to the Guides for the Use of Environmental Claims (Green Guides). FTC intends the Green Guides to help marketers avoid making environmental marketing claims that are unfair or deceptive under Section
by Jordan Wolman (Politico) … At Alterra Energy, trucks drop off shredded plastic from recycling centers across the Midwest. That plastic is heated to temperatures between 800 and 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit to break it down. The end product, 200 to 300 barrels per day of synthetic crude oil, is transported

(Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)/Federal Register) The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing a virtual public hearing to be held on January 10, 2023, on its proposal for the “Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) Program: Standards for 2023-2025 and Other Changes,” which was announced on November 30, 2022. An additional session will be
by Mike Sticklen and Doug Rivers (Lee Enterprises Consulting/Biofuels Digest) The US ethanol industry is faced with flat volume (Fig. 1) and mediocre returns on capital (Fig. 2). There are several strategic opportunities available to return to revenue growth and improve returns to shareholders. The strategies can be grouped into three
by David R. Rubenstein (California Ethanol + Power/Biofuels Digest) … The proposed rule also includes a system allowing electric vehicle manufacturers to register with the EPA and generate credits based on electric Renewable Identification Numbers for power produced from qualifying renewable biomass, including biogas from methane digesters. This policy would align
by David Blackmon (Forbes) J.P. Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon probably summed up this week’s energy-related events best when he noted that “we need cheap, reliable, safe, secure energy, of which 80% comes from oil and gas” during an interview on CNBC. It was a week in which other major players, notably
by Gosia Wozniacka (The Oregonian/OregonLive) Portland will phase out the sale of petroleum diesel by 2030, in its first major step to reduce carbon emissions by 50% under the city’s recently adopted climate emergency plan. The unanimous decision by the Portland City Council on Wednesday takes aim at medium and heavy trucks,
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Over 250 organizations and companies signed a letter to Congressional leaders this week calling for quick passage of S. 5145, the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2022, a bipartisan bill that allows for year-round of E15 by extending the 1-psi Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver to fuel blends containing
By Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The White House Office of Management and Budget is now officially reviewing the request from nine Midwest governors to eliminate the 1-psi RVP waiver for E10 in their states and allow year-round sales of E15, according to the RegInfo.gov dashboard. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper said,
(National Business Aviation Association) NBAA recently joined with a coalition of dozens of aviation stakeholders in submitting comments to the IRS on implementation of the upcoming sustainable aviation fuel blenders tax credit (SAF BTC) and clean fuel production credit (CFPC). Effective Jan. 1, 2023, the SAF BTC makes SAF producers eligible
by P.J. Huffstutter (Reuters) Global grain merchant Archer Daniels Midland Co sees the commercialization of its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) efforts coming online around 2026, Chief Financial Officer Vikram Luthar said on Monday. “SAF in terms of reality to come online, at least for us, is going to be in the
(BioCycle Magazine) On December 1, the U.S. EPA released a proposed rulemaking under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program, which includes a long-awaited regulatory framework to generate credits (“eRINs”) from biogas projects, including anaerobic digestion (AD) facilities, that produce renewable electricity for electric vehicles. The proposed rulemaking also includes an alternate
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) A new clean fuel production tax credit created by the Inflation Reduction Act could pave the way for significant growth in biofuels including ethanol, sustainable aviation fuel and biodiesel, if the IRS takes steps to adopt the right greenhouse gas lifecycle emissions model. The new
(Renewable Fuels Association) As federal agencies continue to work on implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act, the Renewable Fuels Association on Saturday filed two sets of comments to the Internal Revenue Service, related to credits for carbon sequestration and clean fuel production. RFA also submitted comments last week to USDA on
(Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)/Federal Register) In this action, EPA determines that renewable diesel, jet fuel, heating oil, naphtha, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) produced from canola/rapeseed oil via a hydrotreating process all meet the lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction threshold of 50 percent required for advanced biofuels and biomass-based diesel
by Jim Wiesemeyer (AgWeb) Renewable diesel capacity topped 2 billion gallons per year as of August, according to the latest data released from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). But EPA used a lower figure, 1.5 billion gallons per year, based on the EIA info as of February. “Domestic renewable diesel
(Inside EPA) EPA is finalizing approval of canola oil for several additional types of fuel under the renewable fuel standard (RFS), expanding the options of biofuel producers seeking RFS credits and brushing off assertions from environmentalists that the move will expand canola production and potentially threaten protected species. In a
by Jeremy Beaman (Washington Examiner) Congressional lawmakers are drawing up legislation to cut down the near-record compliance costs associated with the Renewable Fuel Standard, which has pitted corn staters and some in the oil industry against each other for more than a decade. The bicameral effort would seek to control the volatile prices of
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) Today, EPA issued a multi-part proposal that will build on the strong foundation for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program started in the Biden-Harris Administration and seeks to advance the priorities of energy security, less pollution, and consumer protection. The RFS “Set” proposal requests public input on
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) On December 1, 2022, EPA announces a proposed rule to establish required Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volumes and percentage standards for 2023, 2024, and 2025, as well as to propose a series of important modifications to strengthen and expand the RFS program. The proposed volume targets and
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico Pro) EPA is poised to propose increases in renewable fuel blending requirements under an upcoming proposal setting the future of the Renewable Fuel Standard, according to two people familiar with the proposal. The agency is expected to soon release its biofuel blending volumes under the RFS for
by Donnelle Eller (Des Moines Register) Opponents of three carbon capture pipelines proposed in Iowa and surrounding states want federal regulators to call for a moratorium on construction, saying current safeguards are inadequate to protect people who live near the projects. About three dozen environmental, public health and tribal groups on Monday
by Stephanie Kelly (Reuters) U.S. senators from Nebraska and Minnesota introduced legislation on Tuesday that would expand nationwide sales of E15, a gasoline with a higher blend of ethanol, after gaining support for the bill from an oil industry trade group for the first time, Senator Deb Fischer from Nebraska told
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The U.S. EPA has approved a fuel pathway that allows Chevron U.S.A. Inc. to generate D6 renewable fuel renewable identification numbers (RINs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard for several biofuels produced from soybean oil via coprocessing with petroleum at its refinery in El Segundo, California (Chevron
(Inside EPA) EPA’s revised timeline for complying with renewable fuel standard (RFS) biofuel blending mandates is “dystopian,” according to refiners who are suing to scrap a compliance extension that they say led to an unmanageable pile-up of multiple deadlines as the agency seeks to compensate for its own implementation delays.
(Internal Revenue Service) The Internal Revenue Service today issued three notices asking for comments on different aspects of extensions and enhancements of energy tax benefits in the Inflation Reduction Act. The IRS anticipates that constructive comments from interested parties will aid the agency in drafting the guidance items most reflective
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Since 2006, the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI) has sought to enhance energy security and environmental sustainability for aviation through the use of alternative jet fuels. CAAFI is a coalition of airlines, aircraft and engine manufacturers, energy producers, researchers, international participants and U.S. government
(Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA/Federal Register) The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) requests public input for NRCS to use to inform how NRCS will implement funds received under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to fund the deployment of climate-smart practices on US farms, ranches, and forestlands through four Farm Bill
by Scott Richman (Renewable Fuels Association) As a proud graduate of Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), I was disappointed to read a recent commentary about ethanol by a research scholar at my alma mater. “A Chance to Phase Out Support for Corn Ethanol in the Renewable Fuel Standard,” by
(Inside EPA) A coalition of small refiners is sketching out its legal arguments against EPA’s blanket policy of denying all petitions from smaller refineries for economic hardship waivers from the renewable fuel standard (RFS), as many refiners seek to overturn the agency’s mass denials of their waiver applications earlier this
(Renewable Fuels Association) In a letter sent yesterday to U.S. Senate and House leadership, a broad coalition of energy and agriculture organizations called on Congress to quickly adopt legislation that would resolve inconsistent fuel volatility regulations. Specifically, the groups expressed support for legislation that would result in equal regulatory treatment for all gasoline
by Tom Bryan (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Ethanol Producer Magazine’s editor previews the feature articles in the publication’s December edition while reflecting on the rise of EVs, the promise of higher-level ethanol blends and the enormity of the industry’s burgeoning SAF opportunity. … Yes, it looks imminent that domestic gasoline use
by Erin Voegele (EthanolProducer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on Nov. 17 released updated small refinery exemption (SRE) data, reporting that four new SRE petitions were filed under the Renewable Fuel Standard during the past month. According to the agency, nine SRE petitions are now pending, up from five that were pending
(Inside EPA) EPA is poised to finalize its approval of canola oil as a feedstock for the manufacture of “advanced” low-carbon fuels qualified to earn credit under the renewable fuel standard (RFS), after the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) completed review of the measure. OMB completed review
by Donnelle Eller (Des Moines Register) An Ames company that wants to build a $4.5 billion carbon capture pipeline across Iowa has filed lawsuits against Story and Shelby counties over new ordinances that would require increased distances between the project and homes, churches and schools. Summit Carbon Solutions filed the suit this week
by Katie Schroeder (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Shoring up its provisions on biointermediates, the EPA is catching up with new and envisioned biofuel production goals. Following a workshop on the topic, Ethanol Producer Magazine spoke with a policy expert to learn more. Biointermediates have potential to give ethanol producers a chance
(Renewable Fuels Association) A report released today (November 16, 2022) by the U.S. Energy Information Administration demonstrates clearly that higher blends of ethanol helped moderate fuel prices in the wake of the Ukraine invasion. The report noted that the U.S. ethanol blend rate hit a record summer average of 10.5% in 2022 and

(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) Meeting Purpose: The Department of Transportation (DOT) is preparing to execute a new grant program specified in the Inflation Reduction Act Section 40007. This Act gives the DOT $297M for new grants to advance sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and low emissions aviation technologies to reduce
(FERN’s Ag Insider/Successful Farming) The EPA should increase the advanced biofuels share of the fuel market by 1 billion gallons a year to reflect the land rush into renewable diesel production, said the trade group Clean Fuels America Alliance on Monday. The recommendation would raise the federal mandate for second-generation
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on Nov. 9 delivered its proposed rule to set Renewable Fuel Standard blending obligations for 2023 and beyond to the White House Office of Management and Budget. OMB review marks a final stage before a proposed rule is released for public comment.
by Erin Jordan (The Gazette) University of Iowa panel hits on safety, siting and impact of proposed pipeline projects — The leader of Iowa Renewable Fuels Association says whether carbon dioxide pipelines are approved in the state will be the difference between “life or death” for Iowa’s ethanol industry. If the
(Renewable Fuels Association) Testimony, Comments Provided to Treasury, IRS, USDA — In separate comments and testimony to the U.S. Department of Treasury, Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Renewable Fuels Association laid out the ethanol industry’s priorities as the agencies prepare to implement the Inflation Reduction Act’s
(GrainNet) Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Growth Energy agreed under their consent decree to delay by two weeks the issuance of the proposed 2023 Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). EPA is now required to propose the biofuel requirements by no later than November
(Environmental Protection Agency) Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced initial public engagement and input opportunities for a subset of new and existing programs funded by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. These programs, which include funding for air quality projects and climate projects addressing clean energy, transportation, methane emissions, and
(Growth Energy) Today, Growth Energy sent a letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury on implementation of Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) tax credits for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). In her letter, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor calls on regulators to ensure that policies reflect the most updated and accurate science-based lifecycle carbon assessment
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) GAO Report: EPA Unable to Prove Small Refiners Pass RFS Costs to Consumers — Not all small refineries are able to pass costs to comply with the Renewable Fuel Standard on to consumers at the pump, the Government Accountability Office said in a new report
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) The major biofuels interest groups and National Farmers Union are trying to intervene in a lawsuit challenging EPA’s recent decision to reject 69 pending applications for small-refinery exemptions to the Renewable Fuel Standard, according to a motion filed with a federal appeals court on Tuesday.
by Katie Schroeder (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Drive Clean Initiative and Next Generation Fuels Act are simultaneously finding support in the ethanol industry. Both aim to usher in higher blends of ethanol, but via different mechanisms. One effort rides on low-carbon, the other high octane. … But as the RFS
“This (the Biden Administration’s EPA and DOT regulatory efforts to mandate transition to electric vehicles) completely inverts the statutory system, transforming it into a tool for forcing electrification rather than the technology-neutral, performance-based system Congress created.” — Heritage Foundation’s Derrick Morgan in The Washington Examiner. READ MORE
(Minnesota Bi0-Fuels Association) The Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association (MN Bio-Fuels), along with other biofuel and agriculture stakeholders in the state, sent a letter to Gov. Tim Walz on Oct 17 asking him to remain committed to a regulatory solution that will ensure the year-round availability of E15. In April this year, eight
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) Agriculture, fuel interests and several states see EPA’s March 2022 decision to reinstate California’s legal authority to implement a zero-emissions vehicle sales mandate and greenhouse gas emissions standards as a back-door way to move the entire country away from gasoline-powered vehicles. Several state-level agriculture interest
(Growth Energy) Growth Energy recently submitted comments to the Washington Department of Ecology and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality in response to the states’ proposals to follow California’s Advanced Clean Cars II regulation requiring 100% sales of zero emission vehicles by 2035. In its comments, Growth Energy highlighted the immediate greenhouse
by Sam Sutton (Politico Pro) Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Monday said she was exploring how the administration could develop standards for voluntary carbon markets as part of broader efforts to address climate change. “We’re looking into what we might do to promote the development of a strong voluntary carbon trading
(American Economic Association/Environmental Protection Agency/White House) Biden-Harris Administration Seeks Public Input on Inflation Reduction Act’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund–Stakeholder Input Will Help Shape First-of-Its-Kind Federal Fund to Mobilize Clean Energy and Climate Projects and Reduce Pollution in Disadvantaged Communities Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a coordinated stakeholder
by Rachel Schutte (Farm Progress) Bipartisan letter comes as the agency prepares to issue the ‘set’ rule in coming weeks. — As the Environmental Protection Agency prepares to issue its “set” rule under the Renewable Fuel Standard, a bipartisan group of thirteen senators sent a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan urging the
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) The Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association (MN Bio-Fuels), along with other biofuel and agriculture stakeholders in the state, sent a letter to Gov. Tim Walz on Oct 17 asking him to remain committed to a regulatory solution that will ensure the year-round availability of E15. In April this year, eight
by Luke Geiver (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Starting now, the U.S. EPA—with input from other agencies—will have new guideposts and increased interpretive authority for determining the annual renewable volume obligations of the RFS. — Starting in 2023, the Renewable Fuel Standard’s yearly required volumes will no longer be based on the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Growth Energy released a study conducted by ABF Economics that found that nationwide access to E15, a 15 percent ethanol blended fuel, could save drivers billions in annual fuel costs, create new jobs, and return billions to the U.S. economy. Specifically, the data show that a
(Heirloom Carbon) … There is only one location big enough to permanently store the 6–10 billion tons of CO2 the world needs to be capturing from the atmosphere each year by 2050 to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change — and that’s deep underground in geological reservoirs. There’s 506 billion tons
EPA Abused Discretion by Denying Suncor Colorado Refineries Exemption from Clean Air Law, Court Says
by Michael Karlik (The Gazette) The federal appeals court based in Denver has overturned a 2019 decision of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that refused to grant Suncor Energy’s Commerce City Refinery an exemption to a key environmental law. Although the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit cautioned the
by Scott Richman (Renewable Fuels Association) Following an April 12 announcement by President Biden, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a series of emergency waivers allowing E15 (gasoline containing 15 percent ethanol) to be sold during the 2022 summer driving season. Without this action, E15 could not have been used in most
by Katie Schroeder (Ethanol Producer Magazine) With CCS expanding rapidly, there is an accompanying need for technology to monitor the CO2 underground. A North Dakota ethanol producer, environmental researcher and a geophysicist explain how it’s done. As the number of new and proposed carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) projects in
(Strategic Biofuels/Business Wire) Standardized requirements will be instrumental for environmental credits enabling commercialization of forestry waste-derived renewable fuels — Today (October 12, 2022), the U.S. Forest Service (Forest Service), an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, awarded Strategic Biofuels a cooperative agreement under its Wood Innovations Program for the first phase of a
(Advanced Biofuels Association/Biodiesel Magazine) Michael McAdams, president of the Advanced Biofuels Association, on Oct. 5 issued the following statement in response to announced OPEC+ production cuts: “Today, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and Russia announced its largest oil production cut since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. And
(Iowa Utilities Board) The Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) issued an order today that denies a request for an environmental impact study (EIS) regarding the proposed carbon capture pipeline by Summit Carbon Solutions LLC (Summit Carbon), which is pending before the IUB in Docket No. HLP-2021-0001. The request for the EIS was filed by the Winnebago
(PRZen) Woodard & Curran is the latest company to incorporate Greasezilla’s ecological and highly automated fats, oils and grease (FOG) separation system into wastewater treatment projects — Downey Ridge Environmental Company, developer of Greasezilla® FOG (fats, oils & grease) separation and processing system, announces a significant increase in the number
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA in September approved an efficient producer pathway for Green Plains Inc.’s 116 MMgy ethanol plant located in Central City, Nebraska. The approval allows the facility to generate renewable identification numbers (RINs) for non-grandfathered volumes of ethanol. Ethanol plants that have approved efficient
by Lamar Johnson (Politico) … The Department of Labor plans to add lithium-ion batteries to a list of products whose components are known to be made using child or forced labor, write E&E News’ Jael Holzman and David Iaconangelo. … The department made the designation because many lithium-ion batteries use cobalt in
by Jennifer A Dlouhy (Bloomberg) EV plan part of draft proposal to set biofuel-blending quotas; Change would mark major expansion of Renewable Fuel Standard — Charging electric vehicles using some forms of renewable power would qualify for credits under Environmental Protection Agency draft plans to expand a longstanding US biofuel support program.
(California Air Resources Board) Strategy calls for control measures by state, federal, international entities to ensure California meets federal 70 ppb 8-hour ozone standard — The California Air Resources Board today approved a statewide plan for attaining the federal health-based standard for ozone, typically experienced as smog. The 2022 State Implementation Plan Strategy identifies
by David Shepardson (Reuters/WTVB) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will consider adopting more stringent greenhouse gas emissions rules for heavy trucks after Congress passed new incentives to speed the adoption of zero-emission vehicles, the agency told Reuters. In March, the EPA proposed new rules to cut smog-forming and greenhouse gas
(Carbon America) The carbon capture and sequestration facility will capture 95 percent of emissions from a Nebraska ethanol production facility and permanently store the CO₂ underground — Carbon America, the first vertically integrated carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) super developer, announced today an agreement with Bridgeport Ethanol, LLC to develop a
(U.S. Department of Energy) Request for Information Seeks Input on Best Uses for Defense Production Act to Bolster National Security, Boost American Manufacturing, and Lower Energy Costs — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced a Request for Information (RFI) to determine how DOE could best leverage the Defense Production Act
(Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation) In 2022 Clean Fuels Foundation hosted or supported three Congressional Tours. The first was in New York City, second in Iowa, and the third in California. Between the three tours the Foundation was able to show almost 60 Congressional staffers the complete biodiesel/renewable diesel value chain.
(Environmental Protection Agency) This document provides updated guidance on qualifying an analytical method for determining the cellulosic converted fraction of corn kernel fiber co-processed with starch in order to demonstrate compliance with the regulatory requirements in 40 CFR 80.1450(b)(1)(xiii)(B)(3). 1 Public confidence in the volumes of cellulosic ethanol produced under the Renewable
(Agricultural & Applied Economics Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The nested design of the Renewable Fuel Standard is limiting incentives for blenders to sell higher blends of ethanol (E85) and has instead resulted in increasing blending of biodiesel to comply with the RFS. The nested structure of the RFS allows a more advanced
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on Sept. 19 delivered a final rule to create canola oil fuel pathways under the Renewable Fuel Standard for renewable diesel, jet fuel naphtha, liquified petroleum gas (LPG) and heating oil to the White House Office of Management and Budget. OMB review
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico Pro) The Center for Biological Diversity called on a federal appeals court Tuesday to vacate EPA’s final rule setting renewable fuel volumes for 2020, 2021 and 2022, arguing the agency failed to comply with the Endangered Species Act. “The EPA is blatantly ignoring how the renewable fuel
(Renewable Fuels Association) When Congress passed the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA) that authorized the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), annual volume requirements were specified through the year 2022 for renewable fuels. But that does not mean this year is the end of the RFS. After this year, the
(American Economic Association) Executive Summary: This is an unprecedented time in history for hydrogen with interest being amplified worldwide due to its potential to address the climate crisis as well as energy security and resiliency. Though there are significant challenges, zero and low-carbon hydrogen can be a key part of
by Bob Thompson (Michigan Farmers Union/Detroit News) … Fortunately, President Joe Biden and our members of Congress have taken decisive steps to lower gas prices and limit our dependence on foreign oil. They have done that by supporting biofuels — fuel grown by America’s farmers. Not only does this lower gas prices and
Reuters is withdrawing a Sept. 8 article that compared carbon emissions from U.S. ethanol plants and oil refineries because of its flawed interpretation of data on ethanol-plant pollution and fuel-production capacity. That led to inaccurate estimates of carbon emissions for individual ethanol plants named in the story. STORY_NUMBER: L8N30E5AE STORY_DATE:
by Cassidy Walter (Successful Farming) Today (September 22, 2022) a coalition of leaders from America’s biofuels industry sent a united call to EPA for a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) in 2023 and beyond, to advance biofuels’ efforts toward net-zero emissions. “We think EPA has an enormous opportunity with this rulemaking
(American Journal of Transportation) Advanced Diesel Technology and Renewable Biofuels Deliver Important Near-term Carbon Reductions Now — As leaders come together in New York during Climate Week NYC all decarbonization options for transport must be considered, given the magnitude of the challenge and the great diversity of global economies, energy systems,
by David Shepardson (Reuters) General Motors Co said on Tuesday it backed establishing tougher federal emissions standards to help ensure at least 50% of new vehicles sold by 2030 are zero-emission. The largest U.S. automaker and the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) released a series of joint recommendations to boost electric vehicles
(Agricultural and Applied Economics Association/CISION) The nested design of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) is limiting incentives for blenders to sell higher blends of ethanol (E85) and has instead resulted in increasing blending of biodiesel to comply with the RFS. The nested structure of the RFS allows a more advanced biofuel
by Laura Sanicola and Laila Kearney (Reuters) Delta Air Lines Inc (DAL.N) plans to start receiving shipments of renewable fuel feedstocks at its Trainer, Pennsylvania, refinery as part of a strategy that could reduce its environmental liabilities by hundreds of millions of dollars, according to three sources familiar with the matter. The move
by Katie Schroeder (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Ethanol made from corn fiber has a low carbon intensity and the potential to generate D3 RINs, but navigating the regulatory landscape to capture its fullest value can be complex. — Producing corn fiber ethanol alongside standard, D6 RIN-generating corn starch ethanol gives producers

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing a virtual public workshop on the new biointermediates provisions of the Renewable Fuel Standard program. EPA is hosting a virtual public workshop to discuss the implementation of the new biointermediate provisions promulgated as a part of Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) final rule for
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA on Sept. 15 released updated small refinery exemption (SRE) data, reporting that one new SRE petition was filed under the Renewable Fuel Standard during the past month. According to the agency, four SRE petitions are currently pending. The newly filed SRE petition
by Jasmin Melvin (S&P Global) E15 solution for Midwest states coming: Regan; Biofuel group pushes for nationwide action; Lays out industry priorities for next RFS rulemaking — A promise by US Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan to lift a summertime ban on sales of a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol in certain
(Clean Fuels Alliance America) Following discussions with Clean Fuels members, EPA hopes to resolve dispute without litigation — Today (September 8, 2022), Clean Fuels Alliance America and the U.S. Department of Justice filed a joint motion with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit concerning Clean Fuels Alliance America
by Rudi Keller (News from the States) When lawmakers return this week for a special session, most of the attention will be on Gov. Mike Parson’s proposal to cut income taxes by $700 million a year. But Parson also wants the bill to include several tax credits intended to benefit rural Missouri
by Doug Duarante (Clean Fuels Development Coalition/Governors’ Biofuels Coalition) Coalition Urges Administrator to Address Mobile Sources — In a detailed letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Clean Fuels Development Coalition (CFDC) called on the agency to use its existing authority to reduce toxic aromatics in gasoline as required by
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Renewable Fuels Association and Growth Energy are slamming a Reuters article published on Sept. 8 that recycles highly misleading claims about the greenhouse gas (GHG) impact of U.S. ethanol plants. The Reuters article, in part, cites the widely discredited study by Tyler Lark and others, which
Sept 23 (Reuters) – Reuters is withdrawing a Sept. 8 article that compared carbon emissions from U.S. ethanol plants and oil refineries because of its flawed interpretation of data on ethanol-plant pollution and fuel-production capacity. That led to inaccurate estimates of carbon emissions for individual ethanol plants named in the
by Corey Lavinsky (S&P Global) … Though ethanol is mentioned only thrice in the lengthy law, ethanol producers will benefit from its carbon capture, utilization and storage provisions, clean fuel production credits, and incentives for ethanol-based sustainable aviation fuel. In addition, cellulosic ethanol manufacturers celebrated the revival of a previously-expired $1.01/gal second
by Jon Doggett (Fox Business/National Corn Growers Association) We must expand fuel choices and make ethanol more accessible across the US — … The Agriculture Department estimates that the cost of fuel, lube and electricity combined for American farmers is projected to increase 34% in 2022. We must remain focused on
by Bob Larson (Ag Information Network/Washington State Farm Bureau Report) … The same week California announced it will end the sale of new liquid-fueled vehicles in 2035, a heat wave forced a power emergency and a request that consumers reduce demand, including charging EVs. That underscored the corn ethanol industry’s
Meeting to Discuss the New Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Section 40007 Grant Program Fueling Aviation’s Sustainable Transition through Sustainable Aviation Fuels (FAST-SAF) and Low-Emission Aviation Technology (FAST-Tech) — December 14, 2022 — Washington, DC and ONLINE presentation available PUBLIC COMMENT DEADLINE January 31, 2023
(U.S. Department of Transportation) The Department of Transportation (DOT) is preparing to execute a new grant program specified in the Inflation Reduction Act Section 40007. This Act gives the DOT $297M for new grants to advance sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and low emissions aviation technologies to reduce emissions from aviation