(Biofuels International) US senators are urging Congressional leaders to include support for homegrown renewable fuels in the upcoming reconciliation package. 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
Legislation-Federal
Back TO HOMEFeenstra 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
New Funds Requested for DOE SAF Loan Guarantees
(The Alternative Fuels & Chemicals Coalition/PR Newswire) The Alternative Fuels & Chemicals Coalition (“AFCC”), and its member companies are asking the Biden Administration to incentivize the production and use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) – since it would be critical to
September 08, 2021 Read Full Article
Sustainable Jet Fuel Incentives Make Wish List for Spending Bill
by Lillianna Byington (Bloomberg Government) Lawmakers and industry are pushing for incentives to make flying greener as part of a $3.5 trillion tax and spending bill. Democrats, who are prioritizing environmental projects in budget negotiations, say they see support for provisions such
September 06, 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
The Major Problems Blocking America’s Electric Car Future: The Electric Future Is Coming. But How Quickly Is Less Certain.
by Daniel Yergin (Politico) ... Targets may be motivating. But no matter how much money is spent, shifting such a vast industrial and consumer ecosystem that is so basic to the economy faces big challenges, with the result that the
August 31, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuels Industry Hopes Its Efforts to Cut GHG Emissions Will Keep It Relevant as White House Pushes EVs
by Jeff Barber (OPIS) After four years of the Trump administration’s often-chaotic approach to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), many in the biofuels industry were hoping President Joe Biden would bring a level of stability and support to the program. While the
August 26, 2021 Read Full Article
Bustos Introduces “Bold and Innovative” Legislation to Reduce Vehicle Emissions, Limit Harmful Aromatics and Increase Biofuels Demand
(Office of Cheri Bustos (D-IL-17)) Industry leaders praise bill, Bustos as champion for clean liquid fuels -- U.S. Representatives Cheri Bustos (IL-17) introduced the Next Generation Fuels Act, legislation that leverages greater fuel octane to reduce carbon emissions from transportation, improve air
August 26, 2021 Read Full Article
Hydrogen Lobbyist Quits, Slams Oil Companies’ “False Claims” about Blue Hydrogen
by Tim De Chant (Ars Technica) Recent studies have questioned blue hydrogen’s low-carbon bona fides. -- The head of a hydrogen lobbying group has stepped down amid concerns that blue hydrogen made from natural gas would serve as a “lock-in” for
August 26, 2021 Read Full Article
Let's Prioritize American Renewable Fuels over Foreign Oil and Minerals
by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association/The Hill) ... But what’s not easy to see is why the White House recently chose to respond to higher pump prices by pushing OPEC+ countries to increase oil production. It was a baffling move that raised
August 23, 2021 Read Full Article
Progressive Pollster: 65 Percent of Likely Voters Would Back Polluters Tax
by Zack Budryk (The Hill) American voters are broadly supportive of proposals to tax major fossil fuel companies for the costs of climate change, according to polling from the left-leaning firm Data for Progress. A survey of likely voters found that 77 percent
August 20, 2021 Read Full Article
Congressional Climate Camp #5: Bonus Session: Understanding Budget Reconciliation
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) ... Our fifth and final session looked at budget reconciliation, an oftentimes difficult-to-understand process that allows Congress to pass laws related to taxes, spending, and the debt limit with only a majority vote in the Senate (instead
August 18, 2021 Read Full Article
DOE Quietly Backs Plan for Carbon Capture Network Larger than Entire Oil Pipeline System
by Sharon Kelly (DeSmog) Obama Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz and major labor group AFL-CIO are behind the “blueprint” for a multi-billion dollar system to transport captured CO2 — and offer a lifeline to fossil fuel plants. -- An organization run by
August 16, 2021 Read Full Article
160+ Groups Call on Congress to Include Carbon Management Provisions in Legislation
(ScalingCarbonManagement.com) More than 160 companies, labor unions, conservation and environmental groups and other organizations at the national, state and local level are calling on Congressional leaders to include in any moving legislative package a portfolio of priority carbon management policies, which
August 16, 2021 Read Full Article
Midwestern Senators Request Meeting with Biden on Biofuels
(Wisconsin Ag Connection) Several senators from the Midwest have signed a letter to President Joe Biden and members of his cabinet requesting a meeting to discuss climate and energy solutions. Among solutions considered to be of key emphasis in the
August 13, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA to the President: Choose U.S. Farm Fields Over OPEC+ Oil Fields
(Renewable Fuels Association) In response to this week’s announcement by the White House calling on OPEC+ member countries to increase oil output, the Renewable Fuels Association today sent a letter to President Biden supporting the Administration’s call for an investigation into the true
August 13, 2021 Read Full Article
Private Help: Breakthrough Energy’s Catalyst Program Is Planning to Spend $1.5 Billion over Three Years
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) PRIVATE HELP: Breakthrough Energy’s Catalyst program is planning to spend $1.5 billion over three years in partnership with the Biden administration to boost clean energy technology. The group, founded by Bill Gates and private investors
August 13, 2021 Read Full Article
ACE: Senate Infrastructure Package Falls Short for Low-Carbon Biofuels
(American Coalition for Ethanol/GrainNet) American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings issued the following statement on the lack of investment in low-carbon biofuels in the bipartisan infrastructure package the U.S. Senate passed today (Aug. 10): “The Senate’s infrastructure bill is a missed
August 11, 2021 Read Full Article
Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill Passes US Senate with Billions for EV Charging Network
by Sean Szymkowski (Roadshow) The bill now heads to the House of Representatives, but once it reaches President Biden's desk, it will create a national EV charging network. -- On Tuesday morning, the US Senate passed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,
August 11, 2021 Read Full Article
Exclusive: U.S. Weighs 2050 Target in Bid to Wean Airlines off Fossil Fuels
by Allison Lampert and Stephanie Kelly (Reuters/US News and World Report) U.S. President Joe Biden's administration is quietly discussing a target date of 2050 for weaning aircraft off fossil fuels as part of the White House's broader push to fight
August 11, 2021 Read Full Article
The Infrastructure Deal Could Create Pipelines for Captured CO2
by Justine Calma (The Verge) The bipartisan infrastructure package gives billions to carbon capture and removal -- A new generation of pipelines could be born out of the bipartisan infrastructure deal making its way through Congress. But instead of hauling oil
August 10, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuel and Ag Leaders Call for Accountable Life Cycle Analysis for SAF Tax Credits
(National Farmers Union) On Friday, Growth Energy, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Biodiesel Board, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, and the Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance and the U.S. House of
August 10, 2021 Read Full Article
Ethanol Advocates Discuss CFS, post-2022 RFS at FEW
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... When it comes to a federal clean fuels standard (CFS), Bliley (Chris Bliley, senior vice president of regulatory affairs at Growth Energy) stressed the importance of a technology-neutral policy. “You can’t put your
August 09, 2021 Read Full Article
Lawmakers from Both Parties Call for Investment in Ag as a Climate Solution
(North America Climate Smart Agriculture Alliance) Thirty lawmakers from both houses of Congress have written a letter urging House and Senate leadership to support an historic, long-term investment in farmers, ranchers and rural communities as a part of upcoming infrastructure and
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
U.S. to Set Electric-Vehicle Sales Target of 50% by 2030
by Ben Foldy and Katy Stech Ferek (Wall Street Journal) General Motors, Ford and Stellantis executives with union leaders are expected to join President Biden in announcing voluntary targets -- Auto makers including General Motors Co. , Ford Motor Co.
August 05, 2021 Read Full Article
U.S. Senate Democrats Target Big Oil for Carbon Polluters Fund
by Richard Cowan (Reuters) A group of Democratic U.S. senators on Wednesday unveiled legislation establishing a $500 billion fund to be financed by Big Oil and other "carbon polluters" that they hope to attach to broader climate control legislation expected later
August 05, 2021 Read Full Article
Amendment Holds Slow Senate Infrastructure Bill’s Progress: Delays May Push Debate into the Weekend, Frustrating Hopes to Finish This Week
by Jessica Wehrman, Lindsey McPherson, and Joseph Morton (Roll Call) ... The bill already includes language requiring a study on the “cradle to grave environmental impact” of electric vehicles. But Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, wants tighter language and has an amendment to require
August 05, 2021 Read Full Article
Grassley Says Electric over Ethanol Vehicles a Climate Religion for Many in Infrastructure Bill
(National Association of Farm Bureaus/NewsDakota.com) A Midwest Senator claims the pending infrastructure bill’s heavy emphasis on electric over ethanol-powered vehicles has several root causes, ranging from climate change to ethanol’s continued reliance on blending with gasoline. Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley was asked
August 05, 2021 Read Full Article
Biprtisan Infrastructure Bill Includes $25 Billion in Potential New Subsidies for Fossil Fuels
by Alleen Brown (The Intercept) Instead of reducing the role of fossil fuels in the economy, critics say, the bill subsidizes industry “greenwashing.” ... The latest draft bill would make fossil fuel companies eligible for at least $25 billion in new
August 04, 2021 Read Full Article
Axne Wants More Biofuels, Broadband Funding in Infrastructure Compromise
by Katie Akin (Iowa Capital Dispatch) U.S. Rep. Cindy Axne said Tuesday that passing an infrastructure proposal without biofuels funding would be “short-sighted.” A bipartisan group of senators came to a compromise proposal last week on a $1.2 trillion infrastructure proposal.
August 04, 2021 Read Full Article
California CEOs Urge Feinstein to Withdraw Anti-Ethanol/Anti-Biofuel Legislation
(Renewable Fuels Association) In a July 28 letter to Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Alto Ingredients CEO Mike Kandris, Calgren Renewable Fuels President Lyle Schlyer and Aemetis CEO Eric McAfee said ethanol "already reduces GHG emissions by 52%, on average, when
August 03, 2021 Read Full Article
Video Episode 2.2: Clean Fuel: Jet Fuel
(Climate Now) Aviation is responsible for 2.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, though this figure is expected to grow as developing parts of the world become wealthier and increase demand for air travel. Experts have looked to sustainable aviation fuel
August 03, 2021 Read Full Article
The Sky’s the Limit for South Africa’s Sugar Industry if It Finds the Aviation Biofuels Sweet Spot
by Andrew Russell (Daily Maverick) ... All these moves show that the transition to sustainable aviation fuels is accelerating quickly. As the sector takes off, the only question is whether South Africa will ride the trend on the way up. The South
August 02, 2021 Read Full Article
Harder Introduces Landmark Legislation to Help Farmers Lead on Climate Change
(Office of Representative Josh Harder (R-CA 10th) Bill will establish billions in new initiatives to support the efforts of the agriculture industry in leading the way on climate -- Representative Josh Harder (CA-10) reintroduced his Future of Agricultural Resiliency and Modernization (FARM)
August 02, 2021 Read Full Article
North Dakota Carbon-Capture Pipelines Offer Climate Aid; Activists Wary
by Stephen Groves (Associated Press) Two companies seeking to build thousands of miles of pipeline across the Midwest are promising the effort will aid rather than hinder the fight against climate change, though some environmental groups remain skeptical. The pipelines would stretch
July 30, 2021 Read Full Article
Fact Sheet | Proposals to Reduce Fossil Fuel Subsidies (2021)
by Savannah Bertrand (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) U.S. direct subsidies to the fossil fuel industry are estimated at roughly $20.5 billion per year, including $14.7 billion from federal subsidies and $5.8 billion from state subsidies. When externalities such as health, environmental,
July 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Biden Wants to Turn America’s Auto Fleet Electric. It’s Harder than It Seems.
by Juliet Eilperin and Dino Grandoni (Washington Post) When it comes to meeting President Biden’s climate goals, the math is clear: Half of all cars and SUVs sold in 2030 need to be electric. Next week, the president, major carmakers
July 29, 2021 Read Full Article
QUOTE OF THE WEEK -- Angie Craig
"I was disappointed not to see biofuels included in the initial bipartisan infrastructure framework, but rest assured that as conversations in Washington continue to focus on infrastructure investments and efforts to address climate change, I will continue to fight to
July 28, 2021 Read Full Article
Its Time to Make Long-Lasting and Transformative Investments in Biofuels
by Representative Angie Craig (D-MN 2nd) (The Hill) ... I’m a supporter of biofuels. Biofuels offer predictability for farmers, drive economic growth and investment in rural America and decrease the carbon intensity of our transportation sector. These benefits are why
July 28, 2021 Read Full Article
Crapo, Whitehouse, Reed, Panetta Introduce Legislation to Encourage Innovation in the Clean Energy Sector
(Office of Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho)) According to a report by the International Energy Agency, approximately 40 percent of cumulative CO2 emissions reductions needed to meet sustainability targets rely on technologies not yet commercially deployed on a mass-market scale. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho),
July 27, 2021 Read Full Article
New Bipartisan Legislation to Reduce Digester Costs for US Farmers
(Bioenergy Insight) Bipartisan legislation has been introduced by US Senators to encourage investment in biodigester and nutrient recovery systems while establishing a new market for farmers. The Agricultural Environmental Stewardship Act, a bill brought forward by US Senators John Thune and Sherrod
July 27, 2021 Read Full Article
Setting the Record Straight on Renewable Fuels
(Office of Senator Chuck Grassley (R-I)) Prepared Floor Remarks by U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa Setting the Record Straight on Renewable Fuels -- Many bills that get introduced in the Senate won’t go anywhere. They are simply messaging documents. I usually do not
July 23, 2021 Read Full Article
New Federal Bills Target Food Waste
by Natasha Lasky (Our Daily Planet) A new series of bills have been introduced in Congress that aim to quell food waste. These bills — the Zero Food Waste Act, and the Cultivating Organic Matter through the Promotion of Sustainable Techniques Act (COMPOST) —will
July 21, 2021 Read Full Article
Feinstein, Toomey, Menendez, Collins Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Repeal Ethanol Mandate
(Office of Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA)) Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) today introduced the Corn Ethanol Mandate Elimination Act, a bill to end the corn ethanol mandate in the Renewable Fuel Standard. The
July 21, 2021 Read Full Article
Fischer: More Choices and Cleaner Fuel at the Gas Pump
(Office of Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE)) ... The Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which I reintroduced with Sen. Amy Klobuchar in response to the ruling, offers a common-sense solution to this problem. Our bill would reinstate the waiver that
July 20, 2021 Read Full Article
Climate Border Patrol
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Rep. Scott Peters (D-Calif.) unveiled legislation Monday to create a carbon border fee mechanism, putting into legislative text a system to tax carbon-heavy imports, like steel or aluminum, to
July 20, 2021 Read Full Article
How a Powerful US Lobby Group Helps Big Oil to Block Climate Action
by Chris McGreal (The Guardian) The American Petroleum Institute receives millions from oil companies – and works behinds the scenes to stall or weaken legislation -- ... Shell issued a separate report revealing that its single largest donation to political lobby groups last year
July 19, 2021 Read Full Article
We Can Love Electric Cars, but Let’s Not Spurn Biofuels
by Dan Morgan (The Globalist) Right now, electric cars have the momentum and the “inevitability” narrative on their side. Is the idea of pursuing two paths forward a waste of money? ... The Biden administration’s ambitious infrastructure proposal sets aside $174
July 16, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA CEO: Multiple Reasons for Ethanol Optimism
(Renewable Fuels Association) Low-carbon ethanol’s “brightest and sunniest days remain ahead” despite recent judicial setbacks and a growing policy push on electric vehicles, RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper said in keynote remarks today at the International Fuel Ethanol Workshop and
July 15, 2021 Read Full Article
Representataives Angie Craig, Adrian Smith Lead Bipartisan Effort from Congressional Biofuels Caucus in Introducing Legislation to Allow Year-Round E15 Sales
(Office of U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN 2nd) Craig and Smith’s Legislation has been endorsed by Growth Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association and the National Corn Growers Association -- Today, U.S. Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN) and Adrian Smith (R-NE) led Co-Chairs
July 14, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuels Infrastructure Can Support Iowa, Save Planet, Says Axne
Cindy Axne (D-IA-3rd) Key funding would help reduce carbon emissions and reliance on foreign energy while investing in Iowa’s rural communities -- Investments in biofuels infrastructure represent the best of all worlds as we chart a path to an energy economy
July 12, 2021 Read Full Article
Five Ways to Save Year-Round E15 Sales E15's Path Forward May Include Courts, Congress, Regulation
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) The nixing of EPA's E15 rule that allowed year-round sales has in many respects taken the ethanol industry back to square one. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit last week tossed
July 09, 2021 Read Full Article
Alaska Aims to Become ‘Most Fuel-Efficient’ US Airline: CEO
by Pilar Wolfsteller (Flight Global) Alaska Airlines is aiming to become the most fuel-efficient US airline in the next five years, the airline’s chief executive says. During a 30 June webinar sponsored by The Washington Post, Ben Minicucci outlined the Seattle-based carrier’s ambitious sustainability
July 07, 2021 Read Full Article
Bill Aims to Clarify Congressional Intent on ‘Extension’ of SREs
by Erin Voegele (Biodiesel Magazine) Reps. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa, and Angie Craig, D-Minn., on July 2 introduced the Small Refinery Exemption Clarification Act of 2021, a bill that aims to clarify the definition of “extension” in response to the U.S. Supreme
July 07, 2021 Read Full Article
With Assistance, Agriculture Can Help with Climate Change
by Collin Peterson (Minneapolis Star Tribune/Governors' Biofuels Coalition) ... According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), agriculture accounts for just 10% of U.S. CO2 emissions, with livestock accounting for just 4%. On a net basis, agriculture and forestry actually eliminate more
July 07, 2021 Read Full Article
Court Losses Are Only Temporary Setbacks, Says Ethanol Industry
by Chuck Abbott (Successful Farming) Despite losing two high-profile cases in seven days, the ethanol industry says the future is bright for the corn-based biofuel that it promotes as a low-carbon alternative to gasoline and a tool to slow global warming.
July 07, 2021 Read Full Article
Opinion: The Smart Way to Reduce Emissions and Outmaneuver Our Rivals
by James A. Baker III and Greg Bertelsen (Washington Post) ... One thing has become crystal clear during the long-running debate about climate change: Most nations won’t risk their own economic well-being in the hope of reversing what is clearly
July 06, 2021 Read Full Article
Progressives Set Sights on Civilian Climate Corps Program: Exclusive
by Rachel Franzin (The Hill) A progressive environmental group plans to focus its advocacy around President Biden’s proposal to create conservation and reforestation jobs, according to a strategy memo obtained by The Hill. The youth-led Sunrise Movement will be pushing for a Civilian
July 02, 2021 Read Full Article
Rep. Axne Proposes Bipartisan Tax Credit to Expand Use of Low-Carbon Renewable Fuels, Incentivize Higher Blends of Biofuel
(Office of Rep. Cindy Axne (R-IA-03) The Low Carbon Biofuel Credit Act was introduced today with Rep. Adrian Smith, Senators Klobuchar and Thune -- Today, Rep. Cindy Axne (IA-03) introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expand the use of low-carbon renewable
July 02, 2021 Read Full Article
Report — Stronger Tailpipe Rules Coming
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) EPA and the Transportation Department soon will propose a rule boosting federal tailpipe standards almost to Obama-era levels, with an eye toward more aggressive requirements later this decade to goose electric vehicle sales, the
July 02, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA Supports New Bill Reinforcing Intent behind RFS Small Refinery Waivers
(Renewable Fuels Association) he Renewable Fuels Association today thanked Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Angie Craig (D-MN) for introducing legislation that reinforces the intended meaning of the term “extension” as it relates to the Renewable Fuel Standard’s small refinery exemption provisions. The bill stipulates
July 02, 2021 Read Full Article
QUOTE OF THE WEEK -- Cindy Axne
"Over the past few months, I’ve spoken to many of my colleagues here in Congress about the immediate impact that biofuels could have in the fight to lower carbon emissions. ... I will have strong reservations about supporting infrastructure legislation
June 30, 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
Biofuels Big Day on The Hill
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D) will unveil a package of bills today with two of her Republican colleagues to boost biofuels infrastructure. Klobuchar and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) will introduce the Biofuel Infrastructure and Agricultural Product Market Expansion
June 30, 2021 Read Full Article
Six Reasons to Support a Blender’s Tax Credit for Sustainable Aviation Fuel
by Alexander Laska (Third Way/Biofuels Digest) ... According to the International Civil Aviation Organization, one of the most impactful things we can do to reduce aviation emissions is get more sustainable aviation fuel —”drop-in” fuels that can be used in today’s aircraft and
June 29, 2021 Read Full Article
US SAF Producers Target Net Zero in Drive to Reduce the Carbon Intensity of Their Fuels
by Susan van Dyk (GreenAir Online) The recent virtual symposium hosted in the US by CAAFI, the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative, illustrated the increasing momentum in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) commercial development, with companies at different stages of development outlining ambitious
June 28, 2021 Read Full Article
U.S. Supreme Court Backs Refineries in Biofuel Waiver Dispute
by Andrew Chung and Stephanie Kelly (Reuters/Yahoo!) The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday bolstered a bid by small oil refineries to win exemptions from a federal law requiring increasing levels of ethanol and other renewable fuels to be blended into
June 25, 2021 Read Full Article
NBB Members Highlight Policy Priorities in Letter to Congressional Leaders
(National Biodiesel Board) Industry members deliver letter ahead of annual advocacy day fly-in -- Today, the National Biodiesel Board delivered to Congressional leaders a letter signed by more than 50 companies outlining the industry's policy priorities. The priorities include maintaining tax incentives for
June 24, 2021 Read Full Article
Minnesota Bill Would Allocate $6M to Biofuel Infrastructure
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Minnesota House of Representatives on June 19 voted 112 to 20 to pass an omnibus agriculture bill that includes $6 million to support the development of biofuel infrastructure to supply E15 blends of fuel. The
June 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Skor Highlights Biofuels’ Ability to Drive Economic Growth at Senate Subcommittee Hearing
(Growth Energy) Today, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor participated in the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Subcommittee on Rural Development and Energy hearing titled “Renewable Energy – Growth and Opportunities for our Rural Economies”. In the hearing, Skor spoke on
June 22, 2021 Read Full Article
EXCLUSIVE Farm Belt Lawmakers Push for Biofuel Investment and Tax Credits in New Bills
by Jarrett Renshaw (Reuters/AgWeb) Billions of dollars in federal investments and tax credits to boost demand for U.S. biofuels will be part of two bills that Democratic lawmakers will introduce to the U.S. Congress, two sources familiar with the plans said. Congress
June 22, 2021 Read Full Article
RURAL RENEWABLES: The Senate Agriculture Rural Development and Energy Subcommittee Meets Today on Renewable Energy Opportunities in Rural Areas.
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) The Senate Agriculture Rural Development and Energy subcommittee meets today on renewable energy opportunities in rural areas. Subcommittee Chair Tina Smith plans to use the hearing to highlight biofuels’ role in emissions reductions, particularly in hard-to-electrify industries like
June 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Alliance for Aviation Across America, National and Local Leaders, Highlight the Benefits of General Aviation Investments in Sustainable Fuel and Technologies to Local Communities and the Need for Ongoing Federal and Local Support
(Aviation Pros/Alliance for Aviation Across America) On June 10, the Alliance for Aviation Across America held a panel discussion with state and local leaders to highlight commitments and investments made by the general aviation industry in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and
June 19, 2021 Read Full Article
Ethanol Blog: New Coalition Pushes Congress to Begin Work on National Clean Fuel Policy
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) A new coalition of 23 agriculture, biofuels, technology and other companies and interest groups is pushing federal lawmakers to begin work on legislation aimed at decarbonizing transportation fuel. On Monday, the coalition asked the leaders of
June 18, 2021 Read Full Article
Farm Futures Summit Highlights Ethanol
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The Farm Futures Business Summit being held this week in Iowa featured corn farmers and ethanol industry leaders on the first day of the program to shed light on the future of ethanol. The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) sponsored the panel
June 18, 2021 Read Full Article
Waiting for the Signal to Change
(National Biodiesel Board/Biodiesel Magazine) While welcoming federal support for domestic SAF on par with support for biodiesel and renewable diesel, the NBB wants Congress and the Biden Administration to understand how all three fuels support the nation's climate and clean
June 17, 2021 Read Full Article
Shaheen, Collins Lead Bipartisan Letter to EPA Urging Support for Biomass Industry
(Office of Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)) U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) led a bipartisan letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan urging the Biden administration to address languishing applications under the renewable fuel standard (RFS) program, including
June 17, 2021 Read Full Article
Ethanol Blog: New Coalition Pushes Congress to Begin Work on National Clean Fuel Policy
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) A new coalition of 23 agriculture, biofuels, technology and other companies and interest groups is pushing federal lawmakers to begin work on legislation aimed at decarbonizing transportation fuel. On Monday, the coalition asked the leaders of
June 16, 2021 Read Full Article
Rise of Electric Vehicles Presents Questions about Transportation Funding
by Dania Maxwell (Bloomberg News/Transport Topics) While electric vehicles and alternative fuels contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, their continued adoption forces states to rethink transportation funding sources that currently come from taxes on diesel and gasoline. States already charging fees on
June 14, 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
Biden’s 2022 Budget Includes Funds for SAF, Biofuels, Bioenergy
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The budget includes proposed support for biofuels; biorefinery, renewable chemical and biobased product manufacturing; renewable energy; and sustainable aviation fuel. For biofuels, the budget would allocate $1 billion in support over the 2022-’26 period, including $500
June 03, 2021 Read Full Article
Iowans Pressing for More Biofuels Language from Biden Administration
by Rachel Droze (We Are Iowa) Some Iowa farmers say they feel President Joe Biden isn’t following through on campaign promises made about the ethanol and renewable fuels industry. During his campaign, Biden made a promise to promote biofuels, but in the American
June 02, 2021 Read Full Article
EXCLUSIVE-CVR Energy Explores Producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel -Sources
by Laura Sanicola (Reuters) U.S. billionaire Carl Icahn's CVR Energy Inc is exploring whether it can produce sustainable aviation fuel at its refineries, according to three sources familiar with the matter. Renewable fuels account for just a fraction of the fuel for
June 01, 2021 Read Full Article
Biden’s Budget Pledges $36B for Climate, Nearly Doubling Federal Spending on It
(Our Daily Planet) The Biden administration released its detailed budget proposal on Friday and it contained $36 billion in total for climate, a huge increase in climate-related spending. According to the budget justification, the increase of more than $14 billion compared over current spending
June 01, 2021 Read Full Article
Promises, Promises: Why Plans for an All-Electric Future Are Wildly Premature
by Lawrence Ulrich (AutoBlog) ... Beyond the worst examples of greenwashing — including opportunistic start-ups like Nikola and Lordstown Motors that seem more like vaporware with each day — most major automakers seem sincere and serious about transitioning their businesses. Eventually.
May 28, 2021 Read Full Article
Manchin Not So Excited for EVs
by Matthew Choi (Politico/Governors' Biofuels Coalition) Senate Energy Committee Chair Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) expressed skepticism at investing major federal bucks into electric vehicle infrastructure, as Biden’s plan proposes. “I don’t remember Henry Ford — when he built the Model T — that we went out
May 27, 2021 Read Full Article
Iowa Lawmakers Urge Biden to Prioritize Biofuels
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Sens. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and Reps. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa; Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa; and Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, sent a letter to President Biden on May 25 urging him to uphold his promise to
May 26, 2021 Read Full Article
Fischer, Duckworth Introduce Bipartisan RFS Integrity Act of 2021
(Office of Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE)) U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, and Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) introduced the bipartisan RFS Integrity Act of 2021. This legislation would provide more certainty for rural America by
May 26, 2021 Read Full Article
Grassley, Cantwell Introduce Legislation to Support Biodiesel Industry
(Office of Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA)) Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) today introduced legislation to support the biodiesel industry, continue to broaden America’s energy independence. The bipartisan Biodiesel Tax Credit Extension Act of 2021 would extend the current
May 26, 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
Schneider Introduces Bill to Decarbonize Aviation, Fulfill Climate Commitments
(Office of Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL-10)) Sustainable Skies Act would boost incentives to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel which cuts aviation emissions by 50% or more -- Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) introduced the Sustainable Skies Act, new legislation to fight carbon emissions
May 20, 2021 Read Full Article
Valadao Helps Introduce Bill to Extend Federal Tax Credits on Biodiesel, Renewable Fuels
by John Cox (Bakersfield.com) Legislation introduced Tuesday by congressmen including Rep. David Valadao, R-Hanford, would extend federal tax credits supporting the production of biodiesel and other renewable fuels seen as key to Kern's economic diversification push. The bill, dubbed the Biodiesel,
May 20, 2021 Read Full Article
Winning the Future: Analyzing the CLEAN Future Act and Its Implications for Biofuels
by Jenna Bloxom* (Advanced Biofuels USA) The May 5th, 2021 Congressional hearing of the CLEAN Future Act: Driving Decarbonization of the Transportation Sector was a veritable marathon of legislative discourse just shy of four hours long as both parties debated
May 18, 2021 Read Full Article
Representatives Introduce Legislation Aimed at Reducing GHG Emissions
by Matthew Mercure (NGT News) U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, and Rep. Earl Blumenauer, D-Ore., have introduced the Green Transportation Act. The legislation directs cities and states to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the transportation sector. The sector represents the single largest source
May 18, 2021 Read Full Article
U.S. EPA to Hand over Biofuel Exemption Documents to GAO Probe
by Stephanie Kelly (Reuters) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is handing over to the Government Accountability Office information on oil refiners that petitioned for exemptions to biofuel blending mandates, in an effort to help the government watchdog investigate the exemption program. The
May 06, 2021 Read Full Article
U.S. House Panel Discusses Low-Carbon Fuel with Airline, Biofuel Industries
by Stephanie Kelly and David Shepardson (Reuters) Members of a U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee met on Tuesday with representatives from the biofuels and airline industries to discuss ways to expand production of low-carbon aviation fuel, the subcommittee chair told Reuters. The
May 06, 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
Elon Musk Might Be Hosting SNL, but Tesla Workers Aren’t Laughing
by Richard Ortiz (Fortune) “The shift toward a cleaner future requires CEOs like Elon Musk to invest in me and my skills, instead of interfering with workers who try to come together,” writes former Tesla autoworker Richard Ortiz. ... But in my
May 03, 2021 Read Full Article
Energy Act's Impact
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) A recent study by Resources for the Future found that funding for research, development and demonstration in advanced energy technologies (carbon capture, advanced nuclear and direct air capture to name a few) mirroring those
May 03, 2021 Read Full Article
Hearings to Watch ... CLEAN Futures Act
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) The House Energy Committee will discuss the CLEAN Future Act — Democrats’ marquee climate bill — on Wednesday, with particular focus on decarbonizing the transportation sector. The House Science Energy Subcommittee will have a
May 03, 2021 Read Full Article
Is It Really a Comeback? Some Oil and Gas Giants Are Reporting Positive Earnings
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) Some oil and gas giants are reporting positive earnings in the first quarter, signifying a return to profitability from the pandemic slump. But it's not all rosy, as low demand for jet fuel continue
May 03, 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
Ethanol Infrastructure Push: RFA Makes Case for Including Biofuels in Infrastructure Plans
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) After renewable biofuels appeared to be effectively shut out of President Joe Biden's plan for infrastructure, leaders in the ethanol industry and their advocates on Capitol Hill are trying to make the case that biofuels
April 20, 2021 Read Full Article
Omar, Sanders, Merkley, Markey, Barragán Introduce Bill to End Corporate Handouts to the Fossil Fuel Industry
(Office of Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.)) Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) together with Sen. Merkley (D-Ore.), Sen. Markey (D- Mass.) and Rep. Barragan (D-Calif.) introduced legislation to close tax loopholes and eliminate other federal subsidies for
April 20, 2021 Read Full Article
Axne Calls for Including Biofuels Infrastructure in American Jobs Act
by O. Kay Henderson (Radio Iowa) Iowa Congresswoman Cindy Axne is calling on congressional leaders to include money for the renewable fuels industry in the infrastructure bill they’re crafting. President Biden’s American Jobs Act proposes spending $174 billion to promote the
April 19, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA Urges Adoption of Nationwide LCFS Policy That Would 'Build' on the RFS
by Jordan Godwin (OPIS Biofuels News) The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) will ask Congress to adopt a national clean fuels policy or low carbon fuels standard (LCFS) that would build upon the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), the ethanol industry group said
April 19, 2021 Read Full Article
Biden Prepares Sweeping Order on Climate-Related Risks
by Lorraine Woellert (Politico) In a draft executive order, President Joe Biden reaches into all corners of the federal government with plans that would touch every sector. -- President Joe Biden is preparing to instruct federal agencies to take sweeping
April 16, 2021 Read Full Article
Grassley Says Biden Infrastructure Plan Doesn't Do Enough for Rural America
by Mark Dorenkamp (Brownfield Ag News) U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley says President Biden’s $2.3 trillion infrastructure plan is lacking in many areas important to rural America. During his weekly call with ag reporters Tuesday, the Iowa Republican singled out biofuels. “Unfortunately despite the
April 08, 2021 Read Full Article
Clean Fuel for Planes
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) Airlines for America, the main U.S. trade group for the industry, is pushing for more fuel credits to be added to Biden’s multitrillion dollar infrastructure plan. The group is backing a sustainable aviation fuel
April 02, 2021 Read Full Article
Biden Releases $2 Trillion Jobs and Infrastructure Plan
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) President Biden on March 31 released a $2 trillion infrastructure and jobs plan, officially titled the American Jobs Plan. Biofuel/bioproducts and carbon capture and storage (CSS) are each briefly addressed in the plan. One provision of
April 01, 2021 Read Full Article
Bill Includes Clean Cities Funding to Support Alternative Fuels
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Legislation introduced by the 32 democratic members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee on March 11 could provide federal funding to support the development of alternative fuel infrastructure and expanded use of alternative fuel
March 26, 2021 Read Full Article
Biden’s High-Cost Plan To Accelerate U.S. Adoption Of Electric Vehicles
by David Blackmon (Forbes) With electric vehicles making up just 2% of U.S. auto sales in 2020, achieving a rapid “energy transition” to an all-electric vehicle fleet in the coming 15 years will be a huge endeavor, one that President Joe Biden
March 25, 2021 Read Full Article
Two States Tax Some Drivers by the Mile. Many More Want to Give It a Try.
by Ian Duncan (Washington Post) ... Widespread production of hydrogen-powered cars has not come to pass, but GM is eyeing an all-electric fleet by 2035 with the backing of the Biden administration. That has lawmakers in state capitals across the country
March 22, 2021 Read Full Article
A Groundbreaking Environmental Justice Bill Is Poised to Become Law
by Yvette Cabrera (Grist) Democrats who drafted the Environmental Justice for All Act are optimistic it will pass. -- With slim majorities in Congress and an ally in the White House, the Democrats who drafted the Environmental Justice for All
March 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Levin, Warren, Markey, and Ocasio-Cortez Unveil the BUILD GREEN Infrastructure and Jobs Act to Jumpstart the Transition to Electric Transportation and Modernize Infrastructure
(Office of Congressman Andrew Levin (D-Mich.)) United States Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Congressman Andrew Levin (D-Mich.), along with Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), today unveiled the BUILD GREEN Infrastructure and Jobs Act. Modeled after
March 19, 2021 Read Full Article
Lawmakers Introduce Comprehensive CO2 Infrastructure Bill
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Sens. Chris Coons, D-Del., and Bill Cassidy, R-La., and Reps. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, and David McKinley, R-W.V., on March 17 introduced the Storing CO2 and Lowering Emissions (SCALE) Act, a comprehensive CO2 infrastructure package. The bill
March 18, 2021 Read Full Article
CO2 Infrastructure Bill Unveiled Today
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) A bipartisan bill being unveiled today calls for pouring billions in carbon capture and storage to bolster the technology that sponsors say will be crucial to meet climate goals. -- FIRST IN ME — CO2
March 17, 2021 Read Full Article
Fuel Industry Experts Share Expectations for 2021
by Steve Klein (C Store Decisions/Renewable Energy Group) ... The transportation industry will be a key factor in reaching those goals. There are also many new policies being debated. New York is considering a low-carbon fuel standard similar to California’s. Many
March 16, 2021 Read Full Article
Storage Wars: ... The Energy Storage Tax Incentive and Deployment Act
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) Bipartisan Sens. Heinrich and Susan Collins (R-Maine), along with Reps. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), Mike Doyle (D-Pa.) and Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.), introduced legislation Tuesday that would create a standalone investment tax credit for energy storage technologies for both businesses and homes. Currently,
March 10, 2021 Read Full Article
U.S. Senators Introduce Bipartisan Oil and Gas Leasing Reform Bill
by Nichola Groom (Reuters) Two U.S. senators on Wednesday said they have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at boosting taxpayer returns from federal oil and gas leasing, the latest in a string of moves in Washington seeking to reform drilling
March 10, 2021 Read Full Article
Bipartisan Senators Call on USDA for Biofuels Relief
by Matthew Choi (Politico's Morning Energy) A bipartisan group of 10 senators is pressing the Biden administration to use authority under the CARES Act to provide targeted relief to the biofuels industry, which is still reeling from the pandemic that collapsed fuel demand. In
March 09, 2021 Read Full Article
How the Oil Lobby Learned to Love Carbon Taxes
by Jennifer A Dlouhy and Leslie Kaufman (Bloomberg) The American Petroleum Institute may come out in favor of a carbon price, a sign of Washington’s dramatic move toward climate-friendly policy. ... But the policy itself has a number of silver linings for
March 04, 2021 Read Full Article
Biofuel Supported Bills Introduced on Capitol Hill
by Jacqui Fatka (Farm Progress) House climate proposal includes RFS integrity provisions and Adopt GREET Act recognizes ethanol’s improved environmental benefits. -- Legislators are looking to expand access and acceptance of biofuels with the introduction of several bills this week on
March 04, 2021 Read Full Article
House Democrats Unveil Sweeping Climate Legislation to Transform Country’s Energy Mix
(Aken Gump) On Tuesday, March 2, Democrats on the House Energy and Commerce (E&C) Committee introduced a sweeping climate proposal—the Climate Leadership and Environmental Action for our Nation’s (CLEAN) Future Act—an amended version of draft legislation released last year in the
March 03, 2021 Read Full Article
Stabenow Introduces Energy Tax Credit
by Nicole Heslip (Brownfield Ag News) Legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate which would provide a tax credit to automotive and energy manufacturers transitioning to greener technologies. Sponsor Debbie Stabenow of Michigan tells Brownfield it could also apply to biofuel
March 02, 2021 Read Full Article
Carbon Capture Coalition Releases Policy Blueprint
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Carbon Capture Coalition on Feb. 24 released a national policy blueprint that includes near-term recommendations the group says policymakers should adopt in order to accelerate the deployment and commercialization of carbon capture projects. The blueprint
March 02, 2021 Read Full Article
US Aerospace Industry Calls on New Administration to Provide Immediate Support to Reach Climate Goals
(GreenAir Online) US aircraft and engine manufacturers have called on the new Biden administration to provide sustained government support to help achieve its climate goals. In an open letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, FAA Administrator Steve Dickson, Climate Envoy John
February 26, 2021 Read Full Article
McKinley, Veasey Reintroduce ACCESS 45Q Act
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Reps. David McKinley, R-W.V., and Marc Veasey, D-Texas, on Feb. 16 reintroduced the Accelerating Carbon Capture and Extending Secure Storage through 45Q (ACCESS 45Q) Act. The bill extends the date for projects to begin construction
February 26, 2021 Read Full Article
LCFS and RFS – Conflict or Complement?
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Do Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) policies conflict or complement the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS)? That was the question Dr. Jarrett Whistance with the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute at the University of Missouri was called on to
February 24, 2021 Read Full Article
Joni Ernst: Radical Policies from Coastal Elites Hurt Rural America
(Office of Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)) Just last month, President Biden raised eyebrows when he took executive action to begin transitioning federal government vehicles to electric vehicles. It followed a similar move spearheaded by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who last September,
February 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Johnson, Craig Introduce RFS Integrity Act
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) Reps. Dusty Johnson, R-S.D., and Angie Craig, D-Minn., on Feb. 19 reintroduced the Renewable Fuel Standard Integrity Act, which aims to ensure transparency and predictability in the U.S. EPA’s administration of the small refinery exemption (SRE)
February 22, 2021 Read Full Article
Highlights from the 26th annual National Ethanol Conference: Ethanol Report 2-19-21
(Energy.AgWired.com) This edition of the Ethanol Report features highlights from the 26th annual National Ethanol Conference (NEC). First, we hear some of Renewable Fuels Association president and CEO Geoff Cooper's annual State of the Industry address focusing on ethanol as essential
February 19, 2021 Read Full Article
RFA’s Cooper: Ethanol Provides Essential Energy for Meeting Global Challenges
(Renewable Fuels Association) Just as ethanol has played an essential role in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, the low-carbon fuel will also serve as essential energy for combatting climate change, Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper said today at the
February 17, 2021 Read Full Article
Carbon Tax Meets New Washington Politics
by Annie Snider (Politico's Morning Energy) President Joe Biden has revived the idea of a carbon tax, but climate hawks on Capitol Hill hope he will give them time to work through the tricky politics of the issue. -- ... THE
February 16, 2021 Read Full Article
GREEN Act Includes Biofuel, Bioenergy Tax Extenders
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Mike Thompson, D-Calif., chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures, on Feb. 5 announced the introduction of the Growing Renewable Energy and Efficiency Now (GREEN) Act, which includes several tax
February 12, 2021 Read Full Article
Klobuchar, Ernst Introduce Legislation to Expand Renewable Fuel Market and Consumer Access
(Office of Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) reintroduced bipartisan legislation to create a renewable fuel infrastructure grant program and streamline regulatory requirements to help fuel retailers sell higher blends of ethanol. The Renewable
February 11, 2021 Read Full Article
Tonko Talks Climate Bill
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico's Morning Energy) The House Energy and Commerce Committee's climate legislation from last year will be the template for action this year, Rep. Paul Tonko (D-N.Y.) said Tuesday. "After years of headwinds on climate action, this is the first
February 10, 2021 Read Full Article
Brownley Introduces ‘Sustainable Aviation Fuel Act’ to Reduce Carbon Emissions
(Office of Congresswoman Brownley (D-CA-25)) Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) introduced the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Act, legislation to incentivize the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and help the aviation sector reduce carbon emissions. “We are facing an existential threat to the future
February 09, 2021 Read Full Article
Ag Policy Blog Working on the Night Moves: Cruz RINs Cap Plan Struck Down in Wee Hours Friday
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) The Senate rejected an attempt by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, to cap the price of renewable identification numbers, or RINs, at 10 cents, as part of a proposed amendment to the COVID-19 stimulus bill, in
February 08, 2021 Read Full Article
Ed Markey on the Green New Deal, Biden
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico's Morning Energy) ... The Massachusetts senator also said he wants Democrats to pursue a clean energy standard over carbon pricing in their push for climate legislation. "[M]y view is that sector-wide solutions like a clean energy standard
February 08, 2021 Read Full Article
Spend Biden Climate Money Where It Will Do the Most Good, Quickly, for the Longest Time—Infrastructure for Renewable Fuels in Disadvantaged Communities
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Part of the Biden Administration’s climate change funds for disadvantaged communities that have suffered from pollution and crumbling infrastructure should be used to ensure that people in those communities can have the cleanest, greenest
February 05, 2021 Read Full Article
What Could Make the Electric Vehicle Trend into a Win for Ethanol
by Don Siefkes (Des Moines Register) To bring about a total EV society, we would almost have to double generating capacity for electricity and rebuild the entire residential electric grid -- ... First, recognize that EVs are emission-free only at
February 05, 2021 Read Full Article
Thune, Shaheen Reintroduce Bill to Advance Renewable Fuel Technologies
(Office of Senator John Thune (R-SD)) Bill would require EPA to approve proven technologies, expedite review of others -- U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) today reintroduced their bipartisan legislation to approve certain advanced biofuel registrations that have gone without approval by
February 05, 2021 Read Full Article
Thune, Klobuchar Reintroduce Bill to Recognize Environmental Benefit of Biofuels, Efficient Farming
(Office of Senator John Thune (R-S.D.)) U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) today reintroduced the Adopt GREET Act, legislation that would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to update its greenhouse gas modeling for ethanol and biodiesel. Specifically, the bill would require
February 04, 2021 Read Full Article
New Federal Funding for Algae in 2021 Will Advance Science and Technology Commercialization
(Algae Biomass Organization) Federal support for advanced algae R&D is on a solid foundation for 2021 with the recent passage of an omnibus appropriations bill that was included in last year’s COVID-19 relief legislation. These funds extend a long-standing tradition
February 04, 2021 Read Full Article
How Joe Biden Can Cut Off the Fossil Fuel Industry’s Federal Funding
by Alexander E. Kaufman (Huffington Post/Yahoo! News) ... The 11-page Evergreen Action memo highlights the limits of what the Biden administration can do unilaterally. At least a dozen ideas proposed in the document require Congress to act, including nearly all
January 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Sustainable Chemistry Research & Development Act Becomes Law
(American Chemical Society) On January 1, the U.S. Senate passed the omnibus National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Within the NDAA Bill, Section E was the culmination of over 15 years of advocacy effort to deliver legislation that seeks to further the
January 29, 2021 Read Full Article
Can This Unlikely Duo Revive Rural America and Help the Planet? Joe Biden and Tom Vilsack Plan to Take Swift Action on Climate Change Proposals.
by Art Cullen (Storm Lake Times/New York Times) ... Few took carbon sequestration seriously during his previous tenure, a time when “resilient agriculture” had not yet entered the vernacular. But the fundamental conversation in the corridors of power and along