by Stephanie Kelly (Reuters/Investing.com) The U.S. biofuel blending program known as the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) could see its most transformative year yet in 2022, as the Biden Administration must make decisions to reset statutes that mandate U.S. renewable fuel
Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Back TO HOMECarbon Negative Biofuels Can Build Soil and Rural Prosperity
by Chuck Hassebrook, David Laird and Jill Euken (The Gazette) ... That pathway is the Pyrolysis-Biochar-Bioenergy Platform, which produces biofuel and biochar by heating crop residue, grass, wood or other forms of biomass in the absence of oxygen. Biochar is a
January 10, 2022 Read Full Article
OPINION: Take the Opportunity to Save on Capital Improvements
by Robert White (Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... While the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit expired at the end of 2021, it still provides fuel marketers the ability to claim a tax credit for 30 percent of the cost, up
January 06, 2022 Read Full Article
Report: Japan’s Ethanol Blend Level Averages 1.8% in 2021
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Fuel ethanol consumption in Japan is expected to reach 823 million liters (217.41 million gallons) in 2021, down from 850 million liters in 2020, according to a report filed with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service’s
January 06, 2022 Read Full Article
USDA Secretary Vilsack Meets with GE Aviation on Sustainable Aviation Fuel to Reduce CO2
by Jay Stowe (GE Aviation/Biobased Diesel Daily) After leading USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack on a tour of the engine development assembly facility at GE Aviation’s headquarters in Evendale, Ohio, in early December, chief engineer Chris Lorence posed a rhetorical question to
December 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Sustainable Aviation Fuel: Decoupling Carbon from Commercial Flight Fact Sheet
(U.S. Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) empowers energy companies and aviation stakeholders by supporting advances in research, development, and demonstration to overcome barriers for widespread deployment of low-carbon sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). SAF made from renewable biomass and
December 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuel Producer Bets on Camelina as Low-Carbon Feedstock
by Amy Mayer (Agri-Pulse) A minor oilseed may be poised to take on a larger role as climate-smart policies emphasize low carbon fuels and the soil health benefits of cover crops. Camelina is seen by some as a cover crop that
December 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuels Are Having a Government-Funding Moment
by Angely Mercado (Popular Science) ... Just this month, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced a plan to provide more than $100 million for basic research and tech development to produce biofuels, biomaterials, and bioproducts. Biofuels are liquid fuels produced from renewable sources,
December 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Workshop on Biofuel Greenhouse Gas Modeling --- February 28-March 1, 2022 --- ONLINE Public Comments DEADLINE: April 1, 2022
![](https://advancedbiofuelsusa.info/uploads/old/600px-Seal_of_the_United_States_Environmental_Protection_Agency.svg_.png)
EPA is hosting a virtual public workshop on biofuel greenhouse gas (GHG) modeling February 28 - March 1, 2022. This is a virtual meeting and open to the public. The purpose of this workshop is to solicit information on the current
December 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Waste Not, Want Not: New Process Turns Manure into Fatty Acids
by Mark E. Griffin (University of Wisconsin--Madison) University of Wisconsin–Madison researchers have demonstrated a new process for transforming a plentiful Wisconsin waste into fatty acids, energy-rich molecules that can be used to make fuels and a wide range of important
December 28, 2021 Read Full Article
Moving Emerging Tech and Rural Development Forward: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to USDA RBCS
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBCS) loan guarantees, grants, and technical assistance support the bioeconomy and rural economic development, so what are some of these programs? What are some of the biogas and biobased programs and
December 24, 2021 Read Full Article
Notice of Solicitation of Applications for Inviting Applications for the Intermediary Relending Program for Fiscal Year 2022 DEADLINES: December 31, 2021; March 31, 2022; June 30, 2022
(Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA/Federal Register)This Notice is to invite applications under the Intermediary Relending Program (IRP) for fiscal year (FY) 2022, subject to availability of funding. This Notice is being issued in order to allow applicants enough time to leverage financing, prepare
December 23, 2021 Read Full Article
Australia to Raise Biofuels Consumption: USDA
(Argus Media) Australia's federal government will implement new fuel standards for gasoline from 1 January 2022, which may significantly raise the ethanol blend rate in the country and boost demand for imports. Under the new fuel quality standard, Australia aims to reduce
December 23, 2021 Read Full Article
Federal Watchdog: Trump’s USDA Overpaid Corn Farmers by $3B
by David Pitt (Associated Press) The Trump administration overpaid corn farmers by about $3 billion in federal aid in 2019 and farmers in the South were paid more for the same crops than those elsewhere in the country, a federal
December 22, 2021 Read Full Article
New Statewide Mandatory Organic Waste Collection
(CalRecycle) Beginning in 2022, SB 1383 requires every jurisdiction to provide organic waste collection services to all residents and businesses. “Jurisdiction” means a city, county, a city and county, or a special district that provides solid waste collection services. “Organic waste”
December 21, 2021 Read Full Article
Ambitious 'Biofuel America' Plan Faces Overhaul in 2022
by Chuck Abbott (Successful Farming) During the ethanol boom of the early 2000s, Congress set an ambitious target of quadrupling the amount of renewable fuel mixed into gasoline for America’s cars and pickup trucks. But while corn ethanol has lived up
December 20, 2021 Read Full Article
The USDA and Blue Biofuels Collaborate to Optimize Yields of King Grass for Cellulosic Ethanol Production
(Blue Biofuels/Globe Newswire) Blue Biofuels, Inc. (PINK: BIOF) Blue Biofuels, Inc. (the “Company” or “BIOF”) and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (“USDA ARS”) are collaborating on optimizing the yields of Pennisetum hybridum, commonly known as king grass, a perennial
December 17, 2021 Read Full Article
Ethanol Producers, Advocates Aim for Net-Zero Ethanol by 2050
by Susanne Retka Schill (Great Plains Institute) As US and world leaders engage on climate change and carbon reduction efforts, leaders in the American ethanol industry have announced pledges and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The country’s largest
December 16, 2021 Read Full Article
Column: Grain Traders Eye U.S. Crops, China and Biofuels to Headline 2022 -Braun
by Karen Braun (Reuters) Grain and oilseed markets in 2021 proved just as exciting as in 2020 with prices hitting multiyear highs on shrinking stockpiles. Whether those prices sustain or relax in 2022 will be partially guided by some of the
December 15, 2021 Read Full Article
OMB Reveals Expected Timeline for Post-2022 RFS Rule, Other Rules
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Biden administration has signaled its intent to publish a proposed rule setting Renewable Fuel Standard renewable volume obligations (RVOs) for 2023 and beyond next spring. A variety of other rulemakings impacting biofuel producers are
December 14, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Sees Little Renewable Diesel Benefit for Soybean Oil
by Sean Pratt (Western Producer) Analysts generally concur that the burgeoning renewable diesel industry will result in exploding demand for soybean oil through 2030. But there is one notable exception. The United States Department of Agriculture is forecasting static soybean oil demand from
December 14, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuel Producer Program Applications Open DEADLIINE: February 11, 2022
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) This program authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to make payments to U.S.-based producers of advanced, cellulosic, or conventional biofuel, biomass-based diesel, or renewable fuel to offset unexpected market losses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. NOTE: For the
December 14, 2021 Read Full Article
Construction to Start in 2022 on New Ethanol Plant near Mason City
by Mike Bunge (KIMT3) A new ethanol plant is planned for construction near Mason City. New Energy Blue says the biomass refinery would be on a 155-acre site and convert 275,000 tons of cornstalks and wheat straw into 20 million gallons of ethanol
December 13, 2021 Read Full Article
Mustard Plant Jet Fuel Could Reduce Emissions by 68 Percent
by Puneet Dwivedi (University of Georgia/U.S. Department of Agriculture) ... Carinata (Brassica Carinata), also known as Ethiopian mustard, is an oilseed crop that can be grown across the southern U.S. during winter months. The oil obtained from crushed carinata seeds can
December 10, 2021 Read Full Article
Getting Biobased Investments Going: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to Ecostrat & BDO Zone Initiative
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Everyone talks about “moving the needle” on jobs, decarbonization and social justice, but how do you tackle all 3 at once? Check out Ecostrat’s slide guide from ABLC in San Francisco on what BDO Zones
December 10, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA Thanks USDA for Rolling Out COVID-19 Relief Package, Additional Infrastructure Funds
(Renewable Fuels Association) The Renewable Fuels Association today thanked the U.S. Department of Agriculture for its announcement today of $700 million to provide COVID-19 pandemic aid for our nation’s biofuel producers. Originally announced in June, the aid package represents direct payments available for biofuel
December 08, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Announces $3.1 Million in HBIIP Awards
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA on Dec. 3 awarded a combined $3.1 million to eight recipients under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Inventive Program. HBIIP aims to increase the sales and use of higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel
December 07, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Doles out $633M in Power, Biofuel Funds
by Spencer Chase (Agri-Pulse) The Department of Agriculture plans to distribute some $633 million in loans and grants aimed at bolstering rural power infrastructure and making higher blends of biofuels more available to consumers. All told, the funding will be split among 791
December 06, 2021 Read Full Article
U.S. EPA to Propose Expanding Credit Eligibility under Biofuel Program -Sources
by Stephanie Kelly and Jarrett Renshaw (Reuters) The Biden administration is expected to propose expanding the kinds of renewable fuel production processes that are eligible to receive credits under the U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard program, three sources familiar with the matter
December 06, 2021 Read Full Article
Opinion: Helping Retailers Diversify to Weather Gas Price Debates
by Robert White (Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... What is clear, however, is that true energy security and resilience lies in greater fuel diversity, not greater dependence on crude oil. The benefits of ethanol and other biofuels are also clear. Ethanol offers
December 03, 2021 Read Full Article
Advancing the Bioeconomy in TX, CA, and OH: Comprehensive Geospatial Biomass Feedstock Inventories for Potential Conversion to Biofuels, Biochar, Co-products
by : Richard J. Brenner, Wes Jurey and Todd Campbell (Agricultural Technology Innovation Partnership) Introduction. The ATIP Foundation (Agricultural Technology Innovation Partnership) conducts projects in multi-county regions of 3 states to “advance the rural bioeconomy,” using a replicable model we developed
December 02, 2021 Read Full Article
Celebrate United Airlines’ First Passenger Flight Using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel
(U.S. Department of Energy) The first United Airlines passenger flight to fly using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will depart today from Chicago O’Hare International Airport at 1 p.m. ET and will arrive at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport at 4
December 01, 2021 Read Full Article
Brazil Reduces Tariff on Ethanol Imports from 20% to 18%
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA Foreign Agricultural Services on Nov. 12 announced Brazil took action on Nov. 5 to enact a unilateral 10 percent reduction of import tariffs on 87 percent of all goods and services through the
November 24, 2021 Read Full Article
ACE Supports Policies to Credit Ag, Biofuels for Net-Zero GHGs
(American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) During its Nov. 10 meeting, the American Coalition for Ethanol board of directors voted to support new policies that credit farmers and ethanol producers for activities helping ethanol reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by
November 23, 2021 Read Full Article
Making Air Travel More Sustainable with Soy-Fuel Innovations
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) ... One approach to making soy jet fuel relies on the use of a precious metal called ruthenium to catalyze reactions that chemically modify the structure and properties of the oil's unsaturated fatty acids. The problem with
November 23, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Seeks Applications for Rural Energy for America Program
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Updated Nov. 22, 2021 to indicate that applications will receive priority points for advancing key priorities under the Biden-Harris Administration. The * denotes new or updated information since the original announcement. USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural
November 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Ag Secretary Expects “Certainty” from EPA for Biofuels
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) On the day last week that the Environmental Protection Agency proposed extending the deadlines for refiners to comply with Renewable Fuel Standard volume obligations, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack told farm broadcasters that the biofuels industry can expect “certainty”
November 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Trade Mission to EU, UK Promotes Ethanol Policy Development In Region
(U.S. Grains Council/GrainNet) Earlier this month, the U.S. Grain Council (USGC) conducted an ethanol trade mission to Brussels and London to attend a global biofuels conference and followup on E10 deployment in the United Kingdom (UK). Brian Healy, USGC’s director of global ethanol market development; Isabelle Ausdal, USGC manager of
November 19, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA to Launch Climate-Smart Ag and Forestry Partnership Initiative
(Solutions from the Land) To develop climate solutions that strengthen rural America, USDA is partnering with agriculture and forestry interests, as well as with rural communities, to finance the deployment of climate-smart farming and forestry practices to aid in the marketing
November 19, 2021 Read Full Article
Bioeconomy Was Like an Old Truck Stuck in the Mud. The Tow Truck Has Arrived
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) One of the speakers on the second day of the Alternative Fuels & Chemicals Coalition’s Global Biobased Economy Conference & Exhibit, noted that 5 years ago the bioeconomy was like an old truck stuck
November 16, 2021 Read Full Article
Highlights from USDA’s Leadership Briefing at Alternative Fuels and Chemicals Coalition Conference
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Investment, Climate smart agriculture. Incentives. Markets. These are words heard repeatedly at the opening sessions of the Alternative Fuels and Chemicals Coalition Global Biobased Economy Conference & Exhibit this week near Washington, DC. The first
November 15, 2021 Read Full Article
Ethanol Producers Are Leading the Way in Capturing Carbon | Commentary
by Dave Vander Griend (ICM/Wichita Eagle) ... Well, in the biofuels industry we have made great strides to not only reduce the carbon intensity of the products we grow and produce, but also to capture and repurpose any carbon we
November 12, 2021 Read Full Article
Buttigieg Launches US Aviation Climate Action Plan
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Increasing the production of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) is one component of the U.S. Aviation Climate Action Plan unveiled on Nov. 9 by U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at the UN Climate Change Conference. The
November 11, 2021 Read Full Article
Axne Touts Biofuel Incentives: Congressman Cindy Axne Touted Tuesday How Agriculture Can Benefit in the Latest Federal Bill Proposed by Democrats Set to Be Debated Next Week.
by Jennifer Nichols (Atlantic News Telegraph) ... (Congressman Cindy) Axne, along with USDA’s Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development Xochitl Torres Small visited Elite Octane Tuesday morning, and said the bill includes $2 billion for the Rural Energy for
November 10, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA Emphasizes Ethanol’s Potential in USDA Climate-Smart Program
(Renewable Fuels Association) The USDA’s new Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry program should prioritize projects that will help farmers and downstream processors—like ethanol biorefineries—measure, verify, and monetize carbon sequestration and emissions reductions that result from new technologies and more efficient practices. This
November 04, 2021 Read Full Article
Opinion: Fuel Retailers Must Keep One Eye Underground
by Cassie Mullen (Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... Retailers will need to soon make major decisions about replacement, and there has never been a better time to replace or upgrade, thanks to a number of state and federal programs that
November 04, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA Applauds Midwest Governors for Proactively Pursuing Year-Round E15 Fix
(Renewable Fuels Association) The Renewable Fuels Association today thanked a bipartisan group of seven Midwestern governors for their efforts to explore what actions can be taken to allow the year-round sale of E15 in their states. In a letter sent to EPA Administrator
November 04, 2021 Read Full Article
Canola Research in West Texas: Four-Year Project Will Test Canola Cultivars and Irrigation Strategies
(AgriLife Today) West Texas farmers dealing with high-salinity water and limited irrigation need an alternative crop, such as canola, that’s adaptable to harsh conditions. Texas A&M AgriLife research will soon evaluate the potential for canola as an alternative crop amid the region’s
November 01, 2021 Read Full Article
Column: Surge in U.S. Ethanol Production Could Use the Exports to Match
by Karen Braun (Reuters) U.S. corn-based ethanol production over the last year or so has been more of a drag than a support on grain markets as demand and world economies continue to claw back from the coronavirus slump. Now, with
November 01, 2021 Read Full Article
This Plant-Based Jet Fuel Can Reduce Emissions by 68% – Without Displacing Crops
(Good News Network) Replacing petroleum-based aviation fuel with a sustainable alternative derived from a type of mustard plant can reduce carbon emissions by up to 68%, according to new research from a University of Georgia scientist. Puneet Dwivedi led a team
October 26, 2021 Read Full Article
Feenstra Introduces Legislation to Study Electric Vehicle Costs, Biojet Fuel
(Office of Congressman Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04)) “These proposals aim to help consumers and taxpayers save money while also bolstering demand for corn, soybeans, and biofuels produced in the 4th District.” -- In an effort to expand uses for biofuels, Rep. Randy
October 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Climate Change Fuels Drive toward Cleaner Tractors
by Marc Heller (E&E News) Making tractors burn with less pollution has long posed a trade-off: cleaner air, but less power to drag heavy equipment. Now manufacturers say they’re making strides to help close the gap. The latest entrant is a biomethane- and
October 21, 2021 Read Full Article
De-risking and Commercializing Sustainable Aviation Fuel: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to BETO’s SAF Strategy
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) With the recent announcement of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge, the U.S. Department of Energy’s BETO shared this slide guide on their sustainable aviation fuel strategy, featuring BETO Director, Dr. Valerie Sarisky-Reed, and Zia
October 21, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA Comments Seek to Foster Export Competitiveness
(Renewable Fuels Association) The Renewable Fuels Association late Friday submitted comments to the International Trade Administration responding to questions posed about the U.S. Clean Technologies Export Competitiveness Strategy. These comments were issued in addition to joint comments submitted earlier by RFA, the U.S. Grains Council
October 19, 2021 Read Full Article
Crops, Genetics, Feedstocks, Supply Chains: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to State of the Sector
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Whether you are using novel crops, residues, developing supply-chains, or developing new feedstocks for the bioeconomy, this is an exclusive Digest slide guide you won’t want to miss! Straight from our recent State of the
October 18, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Requests Public Input on New Climate-Smart Agriculture Initiative DEADLINE November 1, 2021
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that it is seeking public comments on a new initiative designed to create revenue streams for agricultural producers through market opportunities for commodities produced using climate-smart practices. “Through extreme
October 08, 2021 Read Full Article
Ethanol Infrastructure Efforts Keep Expanding
by Robert White (Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Significantly increasing the use of low-carbon renewable fuels like ethanol follows along different tracks. Legislatively, for example, there’s the bipartisan Clean Fuels Vehicle Act of 2021, which would provide incentives for automakers to build
October 07, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Announces More Than $146M Investment in Sustainable Agricultural Research
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today an investment of more than $146 million in sustainable agricultural research projects aimed at improving a robust, resilient, climate-smart food and agricultural system. This investment is made under
October 07, 2021 Read Full Article
Blended Ethanol Has a 43.4 g/MJ Carbon Intensity Rating or Lower When Accounting for Aromatics Reduction
(Biofuels Central) Two studies conducted by Transport Energy Strategies (TES) and THiggins Energy Consulting show that gasoline blended with ethanol lowers carbon intensity (CI) even more than what is modeled and what is shown in recent studies. A key finding in both
October 06, 2021 Read Full Article
China Backs away from Ethanol Commitment
by Sean Pratt (Western Producer) Corn is the top feedstock for China’s ethanol sector, followed by rice, cassava and wheat. The country’s production plants are expected to consume 4.07 million tonnes of corn in 2021. -- Country has unofficially abandoned its
October 05, 2021 Read Full Article
The Voice of Conservatives Is Important in Renewable Energy Policy Discussions
(Solutions from the Land) ... Those who advocate for no- and low-carbon fuels and other energy solutions come from across political parties – Democrats and Republicans – and from all along the spectrum of partisan views – from liberals to conservatives. The
October 02, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Aims at Ag Woes in $3B Package: USDA Announces Funds for African Swine Fever, Drought, Climate Program
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) ... The agency announced on Wednesday plans to tap funds from the Commodity Credit Corp. as part of what USDA calls a "comprehensive investment package." The $3 billion package is aimed at supporting drought resilience and
September 30, 2021 Read Full Article
Inviting Applications for the Rural Business Development Grant Programs for Fiscal Year 2022
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) USDA is making this funding available under the Rural Business Development Grant program for eligible entities to support business opportunity and enterprise projects in rural communities. Eligible entities are rural towns, communities, state agencies, authorities, nonprofits, federally
September 28, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Investing $75 million in Partner-Led Projects with Focus on Climate-Smart Ag, Equity in Program Delivery
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will invest nearly $75 million for 15 partner-led projects to address natural resource concerns on private lands. This year, projects funded by the Regional Conservation Partnership Program’s (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements
September 27, 2021 Read Full Article
China Backs away from Ethanol Commitment
by Sean Pratt (The Western Producer) China's ethanol consumption continues to fall well short of the government's 10 percent blend mandate. The blend rate in 2021 is forecast at 2.1 percent, according to a recent report by the United States Department of Agriculture's
September 27, 2021 Read Full Article
Opinion: Why I’ve Fought for Biofuels through Congress’ Infrastructure Debate
by Rep. Cindy Axne (D-IA 3rd) (Agri-Pulse) ... Starting this spring, I made it my mission to help members of the Biden Administration, the Senate, and my own colleagues in the House understand the key advantages of biofuels – from
September 24, 2021 Read Full Article
Honeywell and Wood Introduce Groundbreaking Technologies to Support Efforts toward Carbon-Neutral Sustainable Aviation Fuel
(Honeywell/PR Newswire) - Wood's hydrogen plant technology coupled with Honeywell UOP EcofiningTM process technology and carbon capture and storage can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions 100% when compared to petroleum-based aviation fuels - Widespread use of Honeywell and Wood technologies have potential
September 24, 2021 Read Full Article
Cutting Edge Funding & Contractual Structures: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to SAF Project Financing
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Accelerating deployment of sustainable aviation fuel – it’s the talk of the town this past week and here to share the latest on project financing for SAF is project finance expert Mark Riedy. From what
September 24, 2021 Read Full Article
EXCLUSIVE Biden Administration Mulls Big Cuts to Biofuel Mandates in Win for Oil Industry -Document
by Stephanie Kelly and Jarrett Renshaw (Reuters) The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden is considering big cuts to the nation's biofuel blending requirements, according to a document seen by Reuters, a move triggered by a broad decline in gasoline demand
September 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Vilsack Discusses Sustainable Aviation Fuel
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) During an appearance before the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City and Agri-Pulse Ag Outlook Forum Monday, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack addressed concerns about the proposed tax credit for sustainable aviation fuel that it might leave out corn and soybean
September 21, 2021 Read Full Article
Voos Altos e Sustentáveis no Futuro
by Laís Forti Thomaz and Cacia Pimentel (Estadão) O que a nova iniciativa dos Estados Unidos e a Organização Internacional da Aviação Civil (ICAO) podem representar para o Brasil? O governo dos Estados Unidos realizou uma reunião com integrantes de toda
September 20, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA to Seek Applications to Expand the Production of Advanced Biofuels in Rural America DEADLINE: October 31, 2021
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) – United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Justin Maxson today announced that USDA will begin accepting applications on Friday, Oct. 1, 2021, to expand the production of advanced biofuels. USDA will make $7
September 15, 2021 Read Full Article
Grassley Slams Biden EPA’s Possible RVO Reductions
by Tom (KOWA Radio) A key Senate ethanol backer says the Biden EPA’s threat to lower 2020 biofuel volume requirements on top of rumored cuts to levels for this year and next, would severely damage biofuel and corn producers. Senate Ag Republican
September 10, 2021 Read Full Article
Vilsack: Biofuels $700M Still on Way -- Secretary of Agriculture Says USDA Biofuels Aid in Hands of OMB
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) About $700 million designed to help biofuels producers is still on the way three months after the USDA made the announcement to help producers hurt by the COVID-19 economic shutdown. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack
September 10, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Invests $464 Million in Renewable Energy Infrastructure to Help Rural Communities, Businesses and Ag Producers Build Back Better
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Projects Will Support Climate-Smart Solutions to Lower Energy Costs in 48 States and Puerto Rico -- U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the Department is investing $464 million to build or improve renewable energy
September 10, 2021 Read Full Article
DOE Announces Nearly $65 Million for Biofuels Research to Reduce Airplane and Ship Emissions
(U.S. Department of Energy) Projects align with administration's new goal of decarbonizing the aviation sector by 2050 - - As part of a White House roundtable to launch the Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) Grand Challenge to decarbonize the aviation sector by 2050, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced $64.7 million in funding for projects
September 10, 2021 Read Full Article
Fact Sheet: Biden Administration Advances the Future of Sustainable Fuels in American Aviation
(White House) New Actions Aim to Produce Three Billion Gallons of Sustainable Fuel, Reduce Aviation Emissions by 20% by 2030, and Grow Good-Paying, Union Jobs -- Today (September 9, 2021), President Biden is taking steps to coordinate leadership and innovation across
September 10, 2021 Read Full Article
Feenstra Introduces Biofuel Cell Research Act
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa, on Aug. 24 introduced a bill that aims to establish a research, development and demonstration program for a commercially viable fuel cell system that uses biofuels as the main fuel source. The
September 09, 2021 Read Full Article
Get Pumped: Retail Gas Stations Look Likely to Get Some Fresh Cash to Build out Infrastructure
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) Retail gas stations look likely to get some fresh cash to build out infrastructure to accommodate higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel. The House Agriculture Committee is lining up $1 billion for the effort
September 08, 2021 Read Full Article
Auburn-Led Research Team Develops Biochemical Breakthrough for Renewable Fatty Acid Ester Production
by Jeremy Henderson (Auburn University) On-going, Auburn-led research into biofuel and biochemical production just got a lot more eyes on it. Supported by a $2 million U.S. Department of Energy award issued in 2018, as well as funding from the
September 08, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA COVID Aid and Infrastructure for Biofuels Coming Soon
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) During a town hall style webinar with Farm Journal Editor Clinton Griffiths last week, USDA Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said payments for biofuels producers impacted by the pandemic could come in the very near future. “We made the decision
September 07, 2021 Read Full Article
Lignocellulosic Bagasse, Carinata, Pennycress, Guayule: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to SAF Feedstocks
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) There are challenges to sustainable aviation fuel commercialization, but the USDA SAF program is focused on helping with feedstock supply chain systems, conversion and sustainability analysis and commercialization support. Find out about their coordinated agricultural
September 07, 2021 Read Full Article
Klobuchar, Colleagues Urge Schumer, Pelosi to Support Homegrown Renewable Fuels in Reconciliation Package
(Office of Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)) U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Representatives Cindy Axne (D-IA), Angie Craig (D-MN), Cheri Bustos (D-IL), and Mark Pocan (D-WI) sent a letter
September 03, 2021 Read Full Article
Pennycress 2.0 – Improved Oil, Protein: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to CoverCress
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Bunge, REG and Bayer helped CoverCress raise a total of $22 million including $8 million in Series B in 2021. What does that mean for this low carbon cash cover crop and for growers? What
September 02, 2021 Read Full Article
Biodiesel Infrastructure Gets Big Boost in Latest HBIIP Grant-Funding Round
by Ron Kotrba (Biobased Diesel Daily) The USDA announced Aug. 19 that it is investing $26 million in biofuels infrastructure under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program to help expand the availability of higher blends of biofuels, such as B50 blends
August 25, 2021 Read Full Article
United Dairy Farmers Gets $634,000 from USDA to Expand Ethanol Sales
(Farm and Dairy) An Ohio company received a chunk of $26 million given out through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program. Cincinnati-based United Dairy Farmers Inc. was awarded $634,000 to expand ethanol sales at its convenience stores and
August 25, 2021 Read Full Article
Colombia Delays Reinstatement of E10 Mandate
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The government of Colombia has delayed plans to reinstate its E10 blend mandate until January 2022. The blend mandate will be set at E6 in September, October and November, increasing to E8 in December. Last spring,
August 25, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Invests over $5 Million in Biofuel Infrastructure Projects that Include Kansas
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Acting State Director for Rural Development Kansas Dan Fischer today announced that USDA is investing $5.19 million to build infrastructure to expand the availability of higher-blend renewable biofuels through three projects in Kansas. USDA
August 23, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Invests $26 Million in Biofuel Infrastructure to Expand Availability of Higher-Blend Renewable Fuels in 23 States
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Projects Will Increase Availability of Biofuels by 822 Million Gallons Annually -- Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Justin Maxson today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $26 million to build infrastructure to expand
August 20, 2021 Read Full Article
Construction to Start in 2022 on New Ethanol Plant near Mason City
by Mike Bunge (KIMT) New Energy Blue says the biomass refinery would be on a 155-acre site and convert 275,000 tons of cornstalks and wheat straw into 20 million gallons of ethanol and 95 tons of lignin, a solid biofuel and natural
August 06, 2021 Read Full Article
Biden Seeks to Electrify Auto Industry: White House Driving Electric Vehicles, Raising Questions on Direction of Biofuel Policies
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) The president will sign an executive order to make half of all new vehicles sold in 2030 "zero-emission" vehicles, including battery, fuel-cell and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. The executive order also will set new long-term
August 05, 2021 Read Full Article
Vilsack Speech in Iowa Launches U.S. Grains Council Hybrid Summer Meeting
(U.S. Grains Council) The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) brought members together in person Wednesday for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, launching its summer annual meeting in Des Moines, Iowa, and online through a virtual meeting platform. Joining for
August 02, 2021 Read Full Article
Can New Technology Incentivize Farmers to Capture Carbon in Their Soil?
by Michael Sterenberg (Columbia Climate School State of the Planet) The Scenic Hudson Soil Lab is a rather unassuming structure. Sitting atop a hemp farm within New York’s Hudson River Valley, the lab is unadorned, and no bigger than a roadside
July 28, 2021 Read Full Article
Why All Agriculture Carbon Credits Aren’t the Same
by Helena Bottemiller Evich (Politico) Green groups are calling for USDA to set standards so there’s more clarity in the rapidly changing market. -- Agricultural carbon credit programs are cropping up left and right, but the standards they adhere to are
July 27, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Seeks Applications for Rural Energy for America Program DEADLINES: October 31, 2021; January 31, 2022; March 31, 2021
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Justin Maxson today announced that the department is accepting applications for loan guarantees and grants for renewable energy systems; and to make energy efficiency improvements, conduct energy audits and
July 26, 2021 Read Full Article
Ethanol to Electrons: Beyond Transportation Fuel, Ethanol Could Contribute to Greener Electricity.
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Beyond transportation fuel, ethanol could contribute to greener electricity. From large-scale power generation to support the grid to small and decentralized applications that provide renewable energy for remote electric vehicle charging. Electrification may just
July 26, 2021 Read Full Article
An Open Letter to President Biden on Competition for Climate Change Reduction Businesses
by Bob Kozak (Atlantic Biomass/Biofuels Digest) Dear President Biden, For someone who says competition is the key to American economic success, “A fair, open, and competitive marketplace has long been a cornerstone of the American economy, while excessive market concentration threatens basic
July 22, 2021 Read Full Article
New Energy Freedom Refinery to Produce Carbon-Negative Fuel from America's Ag Wastes
(New Energy Blue/PR Newswire) New Energy Blue announced its planned construction in Iowa of a biomass refinery designed to produce renewable carbon-negative automotive fuel, which replaces gasoline. "Our Iowa project can keep one million tons of CO2 out of the atmosphere every
July 20, 2021 Read Full Article
Alternative Fuels & Chemicals Coalition Supports Letter from Congress Members Veasey and Granger to Ag Secretary Vilsack about BioPreferred® Program Problems
The Alternative Fuels & Chemicals Coalition supports a bipartisan letter from Texas Members of Congress, Marc Veasey (D-TX 33) and Kay Granger (R-TX 12) to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack regarding flaws in the USDA BioPreferred® Program. Requests include: • Provide a
July 19, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuel Content Hike Closer to 10% Blend Seen Reducing Fuel Consumption by 80 Million Liters
by Angelica Y. Yang (MSN/Business World) THE ENERGY Department’s revised guidelines on biofuel accreditation will help the Philippines reduce its fuel consumption by 80 million liters while helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the foreign agriculture unit of US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
July 16, 2021 Read Full Article
CALL FOR SPEAKERS: Alternative Fuels and Chemicals Coalition Conference and Expo — November 14-16, 2021 — National Harbor, MD DEADLINE August 31, 2021
![](https://advancedbiofuelsusa.info/uploads/old/Alternative-Fuels-Chemicals-Coalition-logo.png)
This is the FIRST AFCC Global Biobased Economy Conference! The conference will focus on promoting the USDA’s BioPreferred® Program* throughout this two-day conference and exhibition. To kick off the event there will be a reception on Sunday evening, November 14,
July 15, 2021 Read Full Article
Alternative Fuels and Chemicals Coalition Conference and Expo --- November 14-16, 2021 --- National Harbor, MD Recorded Presentations Published
![](https://advancedbiofuelsusa.info/uploads/old/Alternative-Fuels-Chemicals-Coalition-logo.png)
This is the FIRST AFCC Global Biobased Economy Conference! The conference will focus on promoting the USDA's BioPreferred® Program* throughout this two-day conference and exhibition. To kick off the event there will be a reception on Sunday evening, November 14,
July 15, 2021 Read Full Article
Axne Urges Lawmakers to Address Biofuels in Infrastructure Bill
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Rep. Cindy Axne, D-Iowa, is encouraging House and Senate leadership to include provisions to help increase the use and production of biofuels in the final language of the upcoming infrastructure legislation. Axne on June 25 sent
June 30, 2021 Read Full Article
Reality Check for USDA's Climate Agenda
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) The agriculture industry is anxiously waiting to see how the Biden administration intends to enlist more producers to adopt climate-friendly farm practices. But even as corporations are eager to buy offsets from farmers who
June 29, 2021 Read Full Article
White House OMB Reveals Expected Timelines of 2 RFS Rules
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Biden administration has signaled its intent to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking to develop post-2022 Renewable Fuel Standard regulations before the end of 2021. A proposed rule to set annual RFS renewable volume
June 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Biden Weighs Small Cut to Biofuel Targets in Nod to Refiners
by Jennifer A. Dlouhy and Kim Chipman (Bloomberg/Yahoo!) The Biden administration is developing targets for biofuel that are likely to be relatively flat or even lower as it seeks to balance the interests of blue-collar refining workers and advance a clean-energy
June 16, 2021 Read Full Article
New Pandemic Dollars Coming for Biofuels, Livestock Producers
by Jacqui Fatka (Farm Progress) USDA announces latest COVID aid for biofuels, dairy farmers and processors, livestock farmers and contract growers of poultry. -- As part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative, USDA announced additional aid to agricultural producers and
June 15, 2021 Read Full Article
House Biofuels Caucus Requests Pandemic Relief for Biofuels
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Members of the House Biofuels Caucus sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on June 9 urging the USDA to provide COVID-19 relief to biofuels producers under the agency’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers program. Former
June 15, 2021 Read Full Article
Ethanol Blog: House Biofuels Caucus Asks Vilsack for Post-COVID Biofuels Aid
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) Twenty-two members of the House biofuels caucus asked U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to help the ethanol and biodiesel industries following the COVID-19 economic shutdown that led to reductions in biofuels production. In a letter
June 11, 2021 Read Full Article
In the U.S. South, a Forestry Project Helps Black Families Keep Their Land
by Carey L. Biron (Reuters) ... Many of the families were poor but rich in land, offering an opportunity today for those who still own property, said Alton Perry, a former U.S. government forester who works as program manager with
June 09, 2021 Read Full Article
Climate Policy Is Moving Again and a Voice for Algae Is More Important than Ever
(Algae Biomass Organization) The Biden Administration is weaving climate policy into almost every facet of the government, and at ABO we are working closely with the White House, Congress and federal agencies to ensure that the microalgae and seaweed industry can play its
June 04, 2021 Read Full Article
Letter: Ethanol Checks All the Boxes
by Jan tenBensel (Nebraska Ethanol Board/Lincoln Journal/Star) Addressing Ron Todd-Meyer's Local View ("Change. It's what's for dinner," May 25), ethanol checks many boxes for environmental goals. While we wait for electric vehicles to become affordable and infrastructure to be built,
June 04, 2021 Read Full Article
New Reports Correct the Record on Faulty Land Use Change Assertions
(Renewable Fuels Association) A pair of recent studies examining purported cropland expansion in the Midwest are based on a flawed methodology that “suffers from accuracy and certainty issues,” according to a new review of the studies by researchers at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
June 02, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA to Invest $15 Million in the Future of Conservation Through Innovation Grants Program
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is investing up to $15 million to support the development of new tools, approaches, practices and technologies to further natural resource conservation on private lands through
May 25, 2021 Read Full Article
Report Shows How U.S. Farmers Can Fight Climate Change
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) A new report commissioned by Farm Journal Foundation finds U.S. farmers have the potential to significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and become part of the global solution to climate change. U.S. agriculture contributes about 10% of the
May 25, 2021 Read Full Article
Aemetis Notified of US Forest Service Grant for Patented Process Enabling Use of Waste Wood for the ‘Carbon Zero’ Jet/Diesel Plant
(Aemetis/Globe Newswire) Finalizing Grant for “Valorizing Forest Waste for Cellulosic Ethanol Production” to Extract Sugars from Waste Forest and Orchard Wood Using Ionic Liquids Technology Licensed Exclusively to Aemetis from DOE-Funded Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) -- Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX), a
May 21, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuels Industry Wary of Tech-Neutral Tax Credit Absent CI Model Changes
by Patrick Newkumet (OPIS) Alternative low-carbon fuel producers would receive tax credits for reaching net-zero emissions under a U.S. Senate bill introduced last month, but biofuel industry stakeholders are concerned they will find it difficult to reach that target by 2030
May 21, 2021 Read Full Article
Is Sorghum the Solution?: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to Cellulosic Bioenergy Crops
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Everyone wants to reduce the price of biofuels – and a team from Texas A&M, USDA, AgriLife Research, Mississippi State University and others are working on improving the economics and environmental sustainability of biomass sorghum
May 21, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Releases 90-Day Progress Report on Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today published the 90-Day Progress Report on Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry (PDF, 561 KB). The report represents an important step toward in President Biden’s Executive Order on Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad and
May 20, 2021 Read Full Article
Getting the Most from Sustainable Aviation Fuel
by Lloyd Ritter (Green Capitol LLC/Biofuels Digest) The aviation industry is currently responsible for less than 3% of total global carbon emissions, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). But with air travel expected to increase by more than 60 percent
May 19, 2021 Read Full Article
House Ag Panel Hearing Boosts Role of Agriculture in Addressing Climate Change
(Solutions from the Land) The House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry held its first hearing of the 117th Congress this week, drawing attention to the enormous potential in farm productivity and profitability offered by conservation agriculture. The panel also highlighted
May 14, 2021 Read Full Article
Vilsack Promotes Aviation Biofuels
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack advocated for the potential for biofuels “to make air traffic more sustainable and decrease the overall carbon footprint of travel and commerce," echoing remarks made by Granholm during her appearance
May 07, 2021 Read Full Article
Midwest Lawmakers Push for Biofuel-Powered Vehicles in Mix of Biden Electric Vehicles
(NewsDakota.com/NAFB) Midwest lawmakers continue to push for inclusion of more biofuel vehicles in the president’s climate effort to convert the nation’s transportation fleet to electric vehicles. Freshman Kansas Republican Roger Marshall is the latest Midwest lawmaker to join the biofuels push, as
May 05, 2021 Read Full Article
The 10 Big WOWs from ABLC Day 1
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Florida, day 1 of ABLC is now complete, with 18 presentations covering more than 60 companies and technologies as well as comprehensive updates from major supply chain companies and four presentations on priorities, programs, economics
May 05, 2021 Read Full Article
American Coalition for Ethanol: USDA Must Reward Farmers, Biofuel Facilities For Carbon-Cutting Contributions
(American Coalition for Ethanol/Grainnet) The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) encouraged the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help establish a protocol for biofuel producers and farmers to easily document the carbon intensity benefits of changes in agricultural practices in comments submitted April 29 regarding USDA’s climate strategy for President
May 01, 2021 Read Full Article
New Rural Renewable Energy Pilot Program Created
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it is requesting public input from interested parties, including potential customers and interested stakeholders, to help create a new Rural Renewable Energy Pilot Program. To ensure a diverse group of voices are
April 30, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA to USDA: Ethanol Fuels Climate-Smart Agriculture, Energizes Rural Communities
(Renewable Fuels Association) In separate comment letters submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Renewable Fuels Association explained how expanded ethanol production and use can support the administration’s “climate-smart” agriculture goals and encouraged USDA to use the Rural Energy Pilot
April 30, 2021 Read Full Article
On Earth Day, USDA Invests $487 Million in Rural Water, Energy, and Biofuel Infrastructure
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Today (April 22, 2021), in honor of Earth Day 2021, Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Justin Maxson announced the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $487 million in critical infrastructure that will help communities
April 23, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Deputy Secretary Nominee Gets Warm Reception from Senate Ag
by Steve Davies (Agri-Pulse) ... (Jewel) Bronaugh talked about the importance of biofuels in a clean energy economy, including the development of bio-based products and answered questions that covered a variety of agricultural issues important to the members, mostly by promising
April 23, 2021 Read Full Article
Biodiesel from FOG and Waste: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to SMES Energy
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Fats, oils and grease are used today more than ever before – we’re talkin’ billions and billions of gallons – and Smisson Mathis Energy Solutions is converting this waste into biodiesel. See the latest progress
April 23, 2021 Read Full Article
Royal Farms Celebrates Earth Day – Opens 21st Ethanol Refueling Station: In 2020 Alone, Pollution Reduced Is the Equivalent of Planting More than 100,000 Trees
(Royal Farms/Globe Newswire) This Earth Day Royal Farms and Protec Fuel Management, LLC (Protec) celebrate their past year’s achievement of displacing petroleum fuel with enough low carbon biofuels to account for a pollution reduction equivalent to planting more than 102,353 trees.
April 22, 2021 Read Full Article
UH Hilo Researches Whether Sugarcane Can Make Jet Fuel
(University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo) A groundbreaking study investigating the growth of selected varieties of sugarcane to convert into high-performance jet fuel is underway at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Natural Resource Management (CAFNRM). Utilizing advanced technologies
April 21, 2021 Read Full Article
Ag Policy Blog: Growing Climate Solutions Act Returns with Bi-Partisan Backing
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) The U.S. Senate is ready to move ahead with an agricultural climate bill that has bipartisan support and backing from major agricultural lobbies. The Growing Climate Solutions Act was reintroduced Tuesday in the U.S. Senate with
April 21, 2021 Read Full Article
Three Big Trends in the Carbon Marketplace
by Rhonda Brooks (Farm Journal AgWeb) Agriculture has the potential to play a big role in carbon sequestration. -- As U.S. farmers evaluate carbon market opportunities available today, most have more questions than answers. “Farmers aren’t ready to jump in, because it’s
April 20, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA Counters Refiners’ RFS Claims -- Q&A: Geoff Cooper
by Tom Doran (AgriNews) ... The American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers urged Regan, who was confirmed as EPA administrator on March 10, to “take swift action” on the Renewable Fuel Standard by extending compliance deadlines and “setting achievable targets” for
April 19, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuels Caucus Requests Meeting with EPA Administrator
by Jacqui Fatka (Farm Progress) Bipartisan members urge Administrator Regan to maximize benefits of RFS. The bipartisan Congressional Biofuels Caucus extended an invitation to meet with EPA Administrator Michael Regan to discuss the Renewable Fuel Standard and other biofuels priorities. In a letter
April 09, 2021 Read Full Article
Senators Ask USDA to Update Biodiesel Emissions Study
by Erin Voegele (Biodiesel Magazine) A group of 10 senators led by Sens. John Thune, R-S.D., and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., on March 18 sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urging the USDA to complete a full lifecycle assessment of
April 08, 2021 Read Full Article
Data Collection Project to Help Farmers Address Greenhouse Gas Emissions
by Leslie Reed (University of Nebraska–Lincoln/Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute/Nebraska Today) University of Nebraska–Lincoln researchers affiliated with the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute have received a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to better quantify
April 08, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Seeks Applications to Support Technical Assistance and Improve Rural Transportation Systems
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Justin Maxson today announced that USDA is accepting applications for grants to improve rural transportation systems. USDA is making the grants available under the Rural Business Development Grant
April 02, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Seeks Public Input to Help Create a New Rural Renewable Energy Pilot Program DEADLINE: April 29, 2021
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Agency to Host Public Listening Session on April 22, 2021 -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it is requesting public input from interested parties, including potential customers and interested stakeholders, to help create a
April 02, 2021 Read Full Article
OPINION: Infrastructure that Makes a Difference
by Cassie Mullen (Renewable Fuels Association) ... At the same time—flying under the radar—has been the latest round of grants approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture under its Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, also known as HBIIP. This is an
April 02, 2021 Read Full Article
Transitioning to a Sustainable Bioeconomy with Algae Biofuels and Biomaterials – Policy Directions for 2021 and Beyond
(Algae Biomass Organization) ... Algae, encompassing photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic aquatic organisms including microalgae and seaweeds (macroalgae), create a highly versatile and tunable platform for the development of fuels and products. In most cases, large scale algae production can be done
April 01, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Seeks Comments on Rural Energy Pilot Program DEADLINE: April 29, 2021
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The USDA on March 30 announced it is seeking public input on a new rural energy pilot program that was authorized in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, a bill signed by former President Donald Trump on Dec.
March 31, 2021 Read Full Article
Ag Wary of Biden's Carbon Bank
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) The Biden administration is facing skepticism on one of its most ambitious climate change initiatives: A multibillion-dollar bank to pay farmers to capture carbon. While some environmentalists view it as a positive sign of
March 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Council Accepting A-Team Applications DEADLINE April 30, 2021
(U.S. Grains Council) U.S. Grains Council (USGC) Advisory Team (A-Team) applications are now available for the 2021- 2023 term. The deadline to apply is April 30. Council members who serve on A-Teams provide Council staff and its Board of Directors insight and guidance
March 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Feedstock Development, Production, Management: The Digest’s 2021 Multi-Slide Guide to USDA’s Feedstock Innovations
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) From switchgrass, sorghum or sugarcane, feedstock development, genomics, and crops improvement abound with USDA’s help at the Biomass Research Center. Rob Mitchell, Research Leader and Research Agronomist at USDA ARS, shares all about the latest
March 26, 2021 Read Full Article
The Global Industrial Bioeconomy Opportunity: Is Canada Going to Get Serious?
by Jim Passmore (Passmore Group Inc/Biofuels Digest) If you heard Canada is sitting on an untapped $200 billion/year sustainable economic development opportunity for forestry, agriculture and municipal solid waste, would you not want to hear more? In its May 2020 report “The
March 23, 2021 Read Full Article
Vilsack: US Carbon Market Needs a Focus on Farmers
by Bill Tomson (Agri-Pulse) A priority for the USDA in the coming years will be judging the feasibility of setting up, executing and paying for a federal carbon bank to help farmers reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reward them for their
March 23, 2021 Read Full Article
China Eases Implementation of Ethanol Gasoline on Tight Feedstock
by Yu Yunfeng (Independent Commodity Intelligence Services) China has been easing its nationwide implementation of vehicle-use ethanol gasoline since 2020 due to tightening supply of feedstock stale grains. Ethanol gasoline in the country is currently a combination of 90% gasoline and 10%
March 19, 2021 Read Full Article
USDA Seeks Public Input on Climate-Smart Ag and Forestry Strategy DEADLINE April 30, 2021
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA on March 15 announced it is opening a 45-day public comment period to gather input on its climate-smart agriculture and forestry strategy, including several topics focused specifically on biofuels, bioproducts and renewable energy. The