Eni S.p.A.
Date: 2020-01-20
Biofuels International is reporting the Italian Competition and Market Authority has fined Italian oil major Eni S.p.A. €5 million for "green washing" and deceptive advertising of its Eni Diesel+ "green" diesel and claims that the product has a "positive impact on the environment, saves fuel and reduces greenhouse gas emissions."

As the EU's second largest biodiesel producer, more than half of all palm oil and derivatives imported into Italy in 2018 was used for biodiesel production. (Source: Italian Competition and Market Authority, Biofuels Int'l., 20 Jan. 2020) Contact: Eni S.p.A., www.eni.com/en_IT/home.page

More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm Oil,  Eni,  Biodiesel,  Green Diesel,  

Extreme Biodiesel
Date: 2020-01-17
Boise, Idaho-headquartered Extreme Biodiesel, Inc. is reporting a change in management with the resignation of Joseph Spadafore and the appointment of Vinnie Angelos as CEO, President and a member of the Board of Directors. (Source: Extreme Biodiesel, PR, NewsFile, 17 Jan., 2020) Contact: Extreme Biodiesel, Inc., info@extremebiodiesel.com, www.extremebiodiesel.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Extreme Biodiesel,  Biodiesel,  

USDA
Date: 2020-01-17
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking input on the creation of a new Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) to expand the availability of domestic ethanol and biodiesel by incentivizing the expansion of sales of renewable fuels.

This Request for Information (RFI) solicits information on options for fuel ethanol and biodiesel infrastructure, innovation, products, technology, and data derived from all HBIIP processes and/or science that drive economic growth, promote health, and increase public benefit.

Through this RFI, USDA seeks input from the public, including but not limited to: retail fueling stations, convenience stores, hypermarket fueling stations, fleet facilities, and similar entities with capital investments; equipment providers, equipment installers, certification entities and other stakeholder/manufacturers (both upstream and down); fuel distribution centers, including terminals and depots; and those performing innovative research, and/or developing enabling platforms and applications in manufacturing, energy production, and agriculture.

Access USDA RFI details HERE. (Source: USDA, 16 Jan., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News USDA,  Biofuel,  Biofuel Infrastructure,  

Biokraft,SINTEF
Date: 2020-01-15
Trondheim, Norway-headquartered Biokraft AS is reporting construction is underway on a pilot salmon farm waste biofuel plant near the town of Skogn in Central Norway.

The $39.1 million project is in collaboration with the Norwegian research and innovation organization SINTEF and is also thought to involve a German partner with considerable experience in producing aviation-jet biofuels. (Source: Biokraft AS, Fish Farmer, 14 Jan., 2020) Contact: Biokraft, Havard Wollan, CEO, +47 948 22 290, www.biokraft.no; SINTEF, www.sintef.no

More Low-Carbon Energy News SINTEF,  Aviation Biofuel,  Biofuel,  Biodiesel,  

IRENA
Date: 2020-01-13
Following up on our Dec 9th 2019 coverage, in Zimbabwe a planned jatropha bio-diesel processing plant in Mount Hampden is reported to have secured a $12 million concessionary loan repayable over 20-25 years from the IRENA Abu Dhabi Fund for Development.

The loan will finance the construction of a bio-diesel plant an the cultivation of additional Jatropha plants in Mudzi. (Source: IRENA, Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority, Sunday Mail, Bulawayo24News, Jan., 2020)Contact: Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority, www.zera.co.zw; IRENA Abu Dhabia Fund for Development, www.irena.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Jatropha,  Biodiesel,  Zimbabwe,  IRENA ,  

Low-Carbon Fuel
Date: 2020-01-10
In Olympia, Washington State Gov. Jay Inslee (D) is promoting low-carbon fuel standard legislation similar to California's low-carbon fuel standard which effectively taxes fossil fuels and subsidizes renewable fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel. The legislation won Washington House approval in 2019 and now awaits Senate approval during the upcoming Jan. 13 sitting.

Under the proposed low-carbon fuel standard, biofuel suppliers could meet their low-carbon obligations by paying an "alternative assessment" that could add between $48 million and $193 million to the state's coffers in its first year. (Source: Chinook Observer, Capital Press, Jan., 2019) Contact: Office of Washington State Gov. Jay Inslee, Communications Office, Tara Lee, (360) 902-4136, www.governor.wa.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Low-Carbon Fuel,  Jay Inslee,  Clean Fuel Standard,  

Date: 2020-01-10
In Jakarta, the Indonesian Energy Ministry reports it will start road tests for a 40 pct (B40) palm-oil biodiesel and gasoline blend in April, this year. Depending upon test result, the B40 blend would be launched in 2021-22.

In 2019 Indonesia, the world's largest palm oil producer, increased the mandatory bio-content of its biodiesel programme to 30 pct (B30) in a move to cut the country's energy imports and increase palm oil consumption. The ministry plans to run road tests for the B40 programme in April and launch the program in 2021-22. (Source: Successful Farming, Reuters, Jan., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm Oil,  Biodiesel,  B10,  B20,  B30,  

National Biodiesel Board
Date: 2020-01-03
Each year the NBB conducts online surveys of U.S. voters to track trends and gauge awareness of biodiesel. This year the poll gathered responses from 1,064 registered voters nationwide and showed consistent results with prior polling from 2017 and 2018. Among this years survey findings:

54 pct of 2019 respondents had a positive impressions of biodiese, 44 pct had no impression and 3 pct negative;

57 pct of respondents agreed that federal policy should encourage use of biodiesel and renewable diesel; Nearly 80 pct expressed support for existing federal programs that encourage increased production and use of advanced biofuels;

78 pct of respondents support the federal tax incentive for biodiesel, 79 pct support the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), 79 pct of respondents would encourage local communities and governments to promote use of biodiesel.

83 pct of respondents agreed that the government should "stand with American workers, manufacturers, rural economies and businesses" to support a clean fuels industry and "follow the law to implement an existing mandate that creates jobs and economic development across the country." (Source: National Biodiesel Board, 31 Dec., 2019) Contact: NBB, Kaleb Little, Dir. Communications, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, (800) 841-5849, www.biodiesel.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Biodiesel Board,  Biodiesel,  

Renewable Volume Obligations
Date: 2019-12-30
The High Plains Journal is reporting corn growers and renewable fuel standard (RFS) advocates were more then a little disappointed by the recent EPA Renewable Volume Obligations (RVO) rule as signed on Dec. 19 by EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.

"I'm disappointed the EPA chose to ignore the concerns voiced by renewable fuels producers, farmers and consumers. The flawed formula used to account for waived gallons creates unnecessary uncertainty in our markets, detrimental to so many across rural America. We must continue to work together to hold the EPA accountable for ensuring the 15 billion gallons mandated by the RFS are met. We must also continue to invest in infrastructure that builds demand and increases the availability of higher blends of biodiesel and ethanol across the state of Iowa."-- Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship administers the Iowa Renewable Fuel Infrastructure program, which offers cost-share grants to help fuel retailers install infrastructure to increase the availability of ethanol and biodiesel. To date, the program has distributed or obligated over $33 million with $200 million added in private economic activity. (Source: Iowa Department of Agriculture, High Plains Journal, 29 Dec. 2019) Contact: Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Mike Naig, Sec., 515-281-5321, www.iowaagriculture.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News ANdrew Wheeler,  Renewable Volume Obligations,  RVO,   RFS,  "Hardship" Waiver,  Ethanol.Ethanol Blend,  EIA,  

Indonesian Palm Oil,Pertamina
Date: 2019-12-23
Following up on our 25th November report, Jakarta is reporting the early launch of its mandatory updated B-30 palm oil biodiesel-petroleum diesel blending program. The program requires the use of domestic palm oil-based biodiesel developed and produced by state-run oil company Pertamina.

The update from B-20 to B-30 was originally slated for Jan., 2020 with the aim of raising the blend rate to B-50 at the earliest possible date.

Indonesia is the world's largest palm oil producer. (Source: Pertamina, Jakarta Globe, 23 Dec., 2019) Contact: Pertamina, Fajriyah Usman, VP Communications, 1-500-000, pcc@pertamina.com, www.pertamina.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Pertamina,  Palm Oil,  Palm Oil Biofuel,  B-20,  B-30,  

Euglena
Date: 2019-12-23
Further to our 5th November, 2018 coverage, Japanese biotechnology company Euglena Co. and major trading house Itochu Corp. are reporting the launch of demonstration projects in Indonesia and Colombia to grow euglena microalgae to be used for the production of biofuel.

The Euglens's Yokohama facility has a production capacity of 125 kiloliters per year (33,000 gpy) of jet biofuel and ASTM certified biodiesel, increasing to 250,000 kiloliters (66,000 gpy) by 2025.

Euglena has partnered with aviation group ANA Holdings with the aim of fueling ANA commercial international flights as well as to offer bio jet fuel to other air carriers departing Japanese airports. ANA will support euglena to develop the airport infrastructure to supply aircraft. (Source: Euglena, Nikkei, 3 Nov., 2018) Contact: Euglena, Mitsuru Izumo, CEO, www.euglena.jp/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Euglena.Microalgae,  Al;gae Biodiesel,  Jet Biofuel,  

Broc Oil, REGI,B20
Date: 2019-12-20
In the Bay State, Haverhill-headquartered Broco Oil reports it has contracted to provide Renewable Energy Group (REGI) produced biodiesel-blended heating oil to Boston city-owned buildings and municipal facilities.

Under its contract, Broco will deliver an estimated 90,000 gpy of B-20 heating oil that will reduce the City's CO2 equivalent (CO2e) building emissions by 322,560 ppy -- equivalent GHG emissions of 357,728 passenger vehicle miles according to the U.S. EPA. (Source: Broco Oil, PR, 17 Dec., 2019) Contact: Broc Oil, www.brocoil.com: Renewable Energy Group, Marc MacLean, 603-812-1248, marc.maclean@regi.com, www.regi.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  Biodiesel Blend,  B20,  Renewable Energy Group,  B20 ,  

Biodiesel Tax Credit
Date: 2019-12-18
In Washington, U.S. lawmakers have passed an amended a government spending bill that includes extension of the $1.00 per gallon tax credit for the biodiesel industry through 2022 and retroactively to when it expired beginning in 2018.

The credit began in 2005 as a way to help farmers, reduce petroleum imports and support the market for biodiesel.

In September, 95 U.S. biodiesel plants produced 142 million gallons of the fuel, down from 164 million gallons a year earlier, according to the Energy Information Administration. (Source: KDAL, Reuters, Various Media, 17 Dec., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiese,  Biodiesel Tax Credit,  

SK Chemicals
Date: 2019-12-13
Reuters is reporting Pangyo, South Korea-based biofuels producer SK Chemicals announced tests are underway on blending its biodiesel with petroleum-based fuels to create low-sulphur marine oil compliant with International Maritime Organization's (IMO) move to mandate that from January 2020 ships must cut harmful emissions either by burning fuel with 0.5 pct sulphur, down from the current 3.5 pct, or installing emissions-removing scrubbers.

The company is also noted it is considering increasing its biofuels output by 50 pct as it eyes what will be a new market in the shipping sector.

SK Chemicals can produce 500,000 kilolitres per year of biodiesel and biofuel oil, primarily from palm fatty acid distillate. (Source: SK Chemicals, Nasdaq, Reuters, 12 Dec., 2019) Contact: SK Chemicals, 02-2008-2008, 02-2008-2009 - fax., www.skchemicals.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News SK Chemicals,  Biodiesel,  Maritime Biofuel,  Marine Biofuel ,  

Biodiesel
Date: 2019-12-11
The Fence Post is reporting eleven farm-oriented trade associations on Friday pleaded with Congress to extend the biodiesel tax credit.

"There is broad bipartisan support for the biodiesel tax credit, and we believe that Congress can, and must, pass an immediate extension before returning home at the end of the year.

"The future of the credit has been unclear for nearly two years. Since the start of the year, producers have cut back production, investments in new technologies and facility upgrades, and purchases of raw materials.

"Now, at least 10 biodiesel plants have closed or stopped production, furloughing several hundred workers; the states impacted include Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Texas. The economic fallout impacts more than 7,500 total jobs across the U.S. economy. Without an immediate extension of the tax credit, we anticipate widespread plant closures, more production cutbacks, and significant job losses," the groups said in their appeal. (Source: The Fence Post, 9 Dec., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  NBB,  Biodiesel Tax Credit ,  

Zimbabwe
Date: 2019-12-09
In Harare, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) is reporting the mothballing of a planned jatropha bio-diesel processing plant in Mount Hampden due to "logistical challenges" -- funding.

To address the issue, the government has applied for $12 million from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) to support its Jatropha bio-diesel project and various research programmes aimed at improving jatropha plant cultivation and processing. The plant is also expected to blend conventional diesel with jatropha biodiesel at 2 pct or greater. (Source: Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority, Bulawayo24News, Dec. 6, 2019)Contact: Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority, www.zera.co.zw

More Low-Carbon Energy News Jatriopha,  Biodiesel,  IRENA,  

Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry
Date: 2019-12-04
In Jakarta, Reuters is reporting the Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry plans to start producing 3.7 million kiloliters per year of second-generation biodiesel from palm oil in 2022,increasing to 6.1 million kiloliters per in 2024.

Indonesia, the world's major palm oil producer, currently uses biodiesel made from fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) from palm oil, which is blended with fossil fuel.

Green diesel can be made by refining fossil crude oil and palm derivatives together in a single process, or refining palm oil in dedicated refineries. (Source: Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, Reuters, Dec., 2019) Contact:Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ministry_of_Energy_and_Mineral_Resources_(Indonesia)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm Oil,  Green Diesel,  Biodiesel,  

South African Airways ,Sunchem
Date: 2019-12-02
Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni, Gauteng-headquartered South African Airways (SAA) and its wholly-owned subsidiary Mango Airlines are announcing their support for the country's O.R. Tambo International Airport's plan to scale up the use of locally supplied biodiesel in its ground-handling operations.

SAA made history in 2016 as the first airline in Africa to operate commercial flights powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) produced from Sunchem's tobacco plant, Project Solaris.

The new follow-up project, Project Reya Fofa, aims to support a feasible scale-up of feedstock production and infrastructure, and a fully localized value chain for a refinery producing hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) may be achieved in the coming years to produce bio-jet fuel and green diesel. (Source: South African Airways, Biofuels, 29 Nov., 2019) Contact: South African Airways, www.flysaa.com; O.R. Tambo International Airport, +27 11 921 6262, www.airports.co.za; Sunchem, www.sunchem.nl

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aviation Biofuel,  SAF,  Biodiesel,  

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aviation Biofuel,  SAF,  Biodiesel,  

Thailand
Date: 2019-11-27
In Bangkok, the Ministry of Energy has announced that B10 palm oil diesel is to become the standard diesel type in Thailand from 1 January 2020. The move is intended to help raise crude palm oil prices and increase national biodiesel consumption by 2.1 million lpd -- roughly 40 pct.

The ministry expects the energy sector to help absorb two thirds of the national production of crude palm oil (CPO), or at 2.2 million tpy and help the country save on oil imports by 1.8 million lpd. (Source: Thailand Ministry of Energy, Pattaya Mail, 26 Nov., 2019) Contact: Thailand Ministry of Energy, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ministry_of_Energy_(Thailand), www.energy.go.th/2015/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News B10,  Biodiesel,  Palm Oil Biodiesel,  

Indonesian Palm Oil
Date: 2019-11-27
Mexico to conduct research together to develop palm oil-based biofuel as renewable energy during the third meeting of the At this months Indonesia-Mexico Consultative Committee on Agriculture (CCA) meeting in Mexico City, the Indonesian delegation, led by the chief of the Foreign Cooperation Bureau at the Agriculture Ministry, reportedly suggested the two countries partner on palm oil biofuels renewable energy R&D and related oil palm initiatives and opportunities.

The Indonesian initiative was reportedly well received since Mexico is investigating the development of oil palm cultivation, the development of oil palm biofuel and a possible B-20 or B-30 program. Mexico is also eager to explore cooperation in developing biodiesel-based products such as castor oil and jatropha that can be grown on marginal land. (Source: Various Media, Antara News, 26 Nov., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm Oil,  Palm Oil Biofuel,  B-20,  B-30,  

Pertamina
Date: 2019-11-25
In Jakarta, Indonesian state gas and oil company Pertamina reports it is now distributing B30 palm oil biodiesel blend transportation fuel a month earlier that its targeted 28th January 2020 implementation date at fuel terminals in central Java and six other fuel terminals in the near future until December 31, 2019.

Initially, 670,000 kiloliters of B30 fuel will be produced and distributed (Source: Pertamina, Tempo.co, 25 Nov., 2019) Contact: Pertamina, Fajriyah Usman, VP Communications, 1-500-000 pcc@pertamina.com, www.pertamina.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Pertamina,  Palm Oil,  B30,  Biodiesel,  Biodiesel Blend ,  

SeQuential , Crimson Renewable Energy
Date: 2019-11-22
Portland, Oregon-headquartered biodiesel fuel company SeQuential reports it has increased production of low-carbon biodiesel from used cooking oil and restaurant grease at its Salem, Oregon, plant by 30 pct to 12 million gpy.

The plant, which was commissioned in 2008, was acquired by Denver-based Crimson Renewable Energy LP in 2018. (Source: SeQuential, Electrek, 20 Nov., 2019) Contact: SeQuential, Harry Simpson, CEO, Tyson Keever, COO, 800-447-3794 www.choosesq.com; Crimson Renewable Energy LP, Harry Simpson, CEO, (720) 475-5400, hsimpson@crimsonrewable.com, www.crimsonrenewable.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Crimson Renewable Energy,  ,  SeQuential ,  Biodiesel,  

Market Research Hub
Date: 2019-11-11
Market Research Hub is reporting the availability of its Green Diesel: Further Developments in the Alternative Fuel Space report.

According to the report, increasing petroleum prices, stricter government regulations, and an increasing global commitment to reduce green-house gases emission are driving the alternative fuels, biofuel, green diesel market.

Browse Complete Research Report HERE . Request Sample Report HERE . Report inquiries HERE . (Source: Market Research Hub, PR, Nov., 2019) Contact: Market Research Hub, 800-998-4852 , press@marketresearchhub.com, www.marketresearchhub.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Diesel,  Biodiesel,  Biofuel,  

Indonesian National Energy Committee
Date: 2019-11-08
Speaking at the 15th Indonesian Palm Oil Conference recently held in Bali,the Indonesian National Energy Committee Secretary General Djoko Siswanto reported Indonesia is testing palm oil green fuel production at refineries in Dumai and Plaju, and looks to put bio-fuel, including aviation fuel products, on the market by 2022 or 2023.

According to the statement, only 12 pct of the country's refineries produce bio-fuel and the industry is seeking domestic and foreign investors to build more refineries and expand production especially in regions close to oil palm plantations in Sumatra and Kalimantan.

Separately, Indonesia's 30 pct biodiesel - petroleum blend policy will come into force in Jan. 2020, and will increase domestic palm oil consumption by roughly 3 million tpy. (Source: Indonesian National Energy Committee , VNA, 7 Nov., 2019) Contact: Indonesian National Energy Committee , +622 152921, www.den.go.id/index.php

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aviation Biofuel,  Palm Oil,  Green Fuel,  Indonesia Palm Oil,  Biofuel,  

NATSO
Date: 2019-11-08
NATSO, the trade association of America's travel plaza and truckstop industry, issued the following statement with regard to a letter sent to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal (D-MA), urging Democratic leadership to support extending the biodiesel tax credit and other clean energy tax extenders:

"This letter is an extraordinary showing of support for the biodiesel tax credit and other clean energy tax policies. What is especially significant is the ideological and geographic diversity of the Democrats who signed this letter. Many of them have very difficult re-election campaigns ahead of them next year. The fact that lawmakers representing places such as Oklahoma City, Upstate New York, Salt Lake City, and Southern California -- areas far from the farming Midwest -- strongly support biofuels incentives underscores the economic and environmental benefits that these clean energy tax extenders bring to their communities. NATSO is grateful to Representatives Abby Finkenauer and Kendra Horn for their continued leadership on this important issue." (Source: NATSO, PR, The Central Virginian, 6 Nov., 2019) Contact: NATSO, David Fialkov, VP Gov. Relations, Tiffany Wlazlowski Neuman, 703-739-8578, www.natso.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News NATSO,  Biodiesel,  Biodiesel Tax Credit,  

Grassley,RFS
Date: 2019-11-08
"As the number one producer of corn, ethanol, biodiesel and cellulosic ethanol, the renewable fuels industry is an important sector of Iowa's economy. It generates nearly $5 billion of Iowa's GDP, over $2.4 billion in household incomes and supports 47,000 jobs across Iowa.

"President Trump made a commitment to Iowa and other biofuels producing states, and I look forward to seeing this promise fulfilled. The EPA shouldn't undercut President Trump's support of the Renewable Fuels Standard. I urge EPA to adjust the proposed supplemental rule to account for actual waived gallons using hard data from past practice to provide certainty to the marketplace." -- Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) in a letter to EPA Dir. Wheeler this week on the EPA's proposed supplemental rule on the Renewable Fuel Standard. Contact: Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), www.grassley.senate.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Grassley,  RFS,  Ethanol,  

IEA
Date: 2019-11-06
China, India and Indonesia will account for 40 pct -- 15 billion litres -- of biofuel production growth between 2019 to 2024, according to the International Energy Agency's (IEA) Oct 21, report. The report also notes crude oil import dependency was also set to increase in the three countries in the forecast period due to higher vehicle ownership, with fuel demand from petrol vehicles rising by 32 billion litres in China and by over 12 billion litres in India, and with Indonesian fuel demand for diesel vehicles increasing 2 billion litres.

In energy terms, biodiesel consumption in Indonesia already resulted in a notably higher share of domestically produced fuel supplies in 2017. By 2024, its contribution could expand to offset 17 pct of diesel demand. In 2017, ethanol use had only a minor effect on domestic fuel supplies in China and India. However, if nationwide E10 was achieved, its contribution would be much more visible in 2024, replacing 6 pct of petrol demand.

Nevertheless, the IEA said the countries would still remain reliant on imported oil to meet transport fuel demand.

Replacing imported oil with domestically produced biofuels also improved national trade balances. Blending E10 with petrol in 2024 would improve China's trade balance by $$4.9 billion and India's by $1.2 billion, while meeting 20 pct of road transport diesel demand with biodiesel would improve Indonesia's trade balance by $1.3 billion, the report notes. (Source: IEA, Oil & Fats Int'l., 5 Nov., 2019)Contact: International Energy Agency, Dr. Fatih Birol, Exec. Dir., +33 1 40 57 65 00, www.iea.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel,  IEA,  

Red Rock Biofuel
Date: 2019-11-04
In Oregon, Lake County reports it has secured $5.6 million in grant funding for railroad line upgrades in Lake County in anticipation of Red Rock Biofuels beginning operations next spring.

The CRISI grant requires a $5 million match, $1.4 million of which is dedicated from construction of a new rail spur connecting to the main line at the currently under construction Red Rock Biofuels facility on the south end of Lakeview.

The State of Oregon has already invested heavily in the Red Rock Biofuels project, approving $245 million in bonds last year for construction of the plant which is expected to ship roughly 15 million gpy of biofuels on the Goose Lake line when fully operational in April, 2020. Red Rock is expected to produce 10 rail cars per week of biodiesel processed from locally sourced ag waste, forest-thinning and other bio materials. (Source: Red Rock Biofuel, Herald & News, 3 Nov., 2019) Red Rock Biofuels, Terry Kulesa, CEO, (970) 223-6766, tkulesa@redrockbio.com, www.redrockbio.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Red Rock Biofuel,  Biodiesel,  

AF Poyry,St1
Date: 2019-11-04
Helsinki-headquartered St1 reports it has awarded Gothenburg, Sweden engineering firm AF Poyry with engineering contracts for a new renewable fuel production plant to be built in Gothenburg, Sweden. At a cost of SEK 1.5 billion ($156.2 million), the project is St1's largest ever.

AF Poyry's services includes all engineering, procurement and scheduling services. The project consists of new units, revamp of existing units and new storage facilities. The new plant will produce approximately 200,000 tpy of renewable fuel in the form of HVO (Hydrogenated Vegetable Oils), a renewable transport fuel that can be blended into diesel or replace diesel. Production is expected to start early in 2022.

St1 Nordic OyThe Group researches and develops economically viable, environmentally sustainable energy solutions. St1 focuses on fuels marketing activities, oil refining and renewable energy solutions such as waste-based advanced ethanol fuels and industrial wind power. The Group has 1300 St1 and Shell branded retail stations in Finland, Sweden and Norway. (Source: AF Poyry, PR, 4 Nov., 2019) Contact: AF Povry , www.poyry.com; St1 Nordic Oy, www.st1.eu

More Low-Carbon Energy News St!,  Biofuel,  Renewable Fuel,  Biodiesel,  

Hurtigruten
Date: 2019-11-01
The Oslo-headquartered Norwegian cruise line Hurtigruten reports it is exploring and testing the use of biodiesel fuel that could reduce CO2 emissions by 95 pct over traditional marine fuels.

In a release, Hurtigruten said the move to biodiesel is in its infancy and will soon grow to transform the shipping industry. "Hurtigruten wants an international ban of use of cheap, polluting Heavy Fuel Oil in the Arctic and along the Norwegian Coast. It makes no sense to create more pollution and increase the risk of spills and destruction in areas that need to be protected" according to the rlease.

The maritime shipping industry uses more than 330 megatons of fuels every year and is the cause of as much as 3 pct of all global CO2 emissions, the release said. (Source: Hurtigruten, Cruise Industry News, 31 Oct. 2019) Contact: Hurtigruten, Daniel Skjeldam, CEO, www.global.hurtigruten.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Marine Fuel,  Biodiesel,  

Pacific Biodiese,Hamakua Energy
Date: 2019-10-30
In the Aloha State, Maui-based Pacific Biodiesel Technologies reports it has contracted to sell biodiesel to Pacific Current's Hamakua Energy power generation facility on Hawaii Island. The first delvery is due 4 Nov., 2019.

Pacific Biodiesel produces roughly 5.5 million gpy of biodiesel from used cooking oils recycled from restaurants statewide. (Source: Pacific Biodiesel, Pacific Business News, 28 Oct., 2019) Contact: Hamakua Energy Partners LLC, Pacific Current, Scott Valentino, Pres., 808-775-1711, www.hamakuaenergypartners.com; Pacific Biodiesel Technologies, Bob King, Founder, Pres., (808) 877-3114, info@biodiesel.com, www.biodiesel.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Pacific Biodiesel,  Biodiesel,  

Indonesia Palm Oil
Date: 2019-10-30
In Jakarta, the Indonesian Office of the Coordinating Minister for the Economy reports it is anticipating a boost in palm oil exports to China, taking advantage of an opportunity opened up by the escalating trade war between Beijing and Washington.

The move also presents the country with a respite from its planned phase-out of palm oil biofuel in the European Union, its second-biggest export market, and a likely increase in duties by India, its top export customer.

To meet the expected Chinese market demand, Indonesian producers will increase yields through better technology and seeds, rather than more deforestation for palm cultivation. Currently there are 162,000 square-kilometers of palm oil plantations across Indonesia.

As previously reported, the European Commission passed a measure in March to phase out palm oil-based biofuels by 2030, over environmental degradation concerns that palm production, often on land cleared of rainforest, contributes to global carbon emissions and thus exacerbates climate change. The Rainforest Foundation Norway estimates an area larger than the Netherlands might be destroyed to make way for oil palm plantations to feed biofuel demand through 2030. This, it warns, would result in the release of 7 billion tons of CO2 emissions over the next 20 years. (Source: Indonesian Office of the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mongabay, 28 Oct., 2019) Contact: Indonesian Office of the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, www.devex.com/organizations/coordinating-ministry-for-economic-affairs-indonesia-132480

More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm Oil,  Biodiesel,  Biofuel,  

Growth Energy, U.S. Grains Council,Renewable Fuels Association
Date: 2019-10-25
Previously this week in Washington, a coalition of the American Coalition for Ethanol, Growth Energy, National Biodiesel Board, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, and Renewable Fuels Association filed a petition with the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, challenging the process by which the U.S. EPA issue economic "hardship waivers" to over 30 small refineries from their respective Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) biofuel blending obligations for 2018.

The coalition's brief noted, "Even as the Trump Administration indicates it is taking steps to account for future small refinery exemptions, the coalition remains concerned that EPA's abuse of the small refinery exemption program diverges from the spirit and letter of the Clean Air Act. From a substantive and procedural perspective, this is not the way for a federal agency to make such a momentous decision." (Source: Growth Energy, U.S. Grains Council, and Renewable Fuels Association , 23 Oct., 2019) Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, CEO, Elizabeth Funderburk, (202) 545-4000, EFunderburk@GrowthEnergy.org, www.growthenergy.org; U.S. Grains Council, Tom Sleight, Pres., (202) 789-0789, (202) 898-0522, www.grains.org; Renewable Fuels Association, Geoff Cooper, (202) 289-3835, www.ethanolrfa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS,  Growth Energy,  U.S. Grains Council,  Renewable Fuels Association,  

National Biodiesel Foundation,Optimus Technologies
Date: 2019-10-25
In the Show Me State, the Jefferson City-headquartered National Biodiesel Foundation is reporting receipt of grant funding from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its 2020 National Clean Diesel Project which is run in partnership with Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), Pittsburgh-based Optimus Technologies and Renewable Energy Group (REGI) based in Ames, Iowa.

The project will retire older, more polluting vehicles in Iowa and replace them with new B100-optimised vehicles for the cities of Des Moines and Ames, Iowa. The replacement vehicles will use Optimus' Vector technology which allows the vehicles to operate exclusively on 100 pct biodiesel, with the exception of start-up and shutdown, to optimize fuel savings and emissions performance. REG will provide the refueling infrastructure for the fleet of new B100 vehicles. (Source: National Biodiesel Foundation, PR, 25 Oct., 2019) Contact: National Biodiesel Foundation Tom Verry, Exec. Dir., info@biodieselfoundation.org, www.biodieselfoundation.org; Iowa DOT, David May, Fleet Manager, www.iowadot.gov; Optimus Technologies, Colin Huwyler, CEO, 412.727.8228, www.optimustec.com; REGI, Cynthia J. Warner, President and CEO, 515-239-8000, www.regi.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News B100,  Biodiesel,  National Biodiesel Foundation,  Optimus Technologies,  Renewable Energy Group,  

Cargill
Date: 2019-10-23
Following up on our 11 July, 2019 report, Minneapolis-headquartered agricultural industry giant Cargill is reporting its 42,000 sq-ft, 60 million gpy FAME plant in Wichita, Kansas, is now operating at capacity. The $90 million facility was originally announced in September 2017. (Source: Cargill, Oct., 2019) Contact: Cargill, Frank van Lierde, Exec. VP, www.cargill.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Cargill,  Biodiesel,  

Algae Biofuel
Date: 2019-10-23
Algae Biofuel Market by Type -- Global Industry Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis and Forecast, 2017 - 2024, a new report from Zion Market Research provides a comprehensive glance of algae biofuel market on the global and regional level. The study gives historical data from 2015 to 2017 along with the forecast from 2018 to 2024 based on both revenue and volume. The study includes major driving forces and restraints for the algae biofuel market along with the impact they have on the demand within the forecast period. Additionally, the study also provides the major growth opportunities of global algae biofuel market.

The global algae biofuel market study also comprises the detailed value chain analysis for providing a comprehensive view of the market. Moreover, the study also includes Porter's Five Forces model for algae biofuel, to understand the competitive landscape of the global market. The study includes a market attractiveness analysis of all the segments related to the market.

Algae Biofuel Market by Type (Bioethanol, Biodiesel, Methane, Jet Fuel, Biobutanol, Biogasoline, Green Diesel, and Others) and for Application (Transportation, Aerospace, and Other Applications): Global Industry Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis and Forecast, 2017 -2024 report details HERE. (Source: Zion Market Research, Oct. 2019) Contact: Zion Market Research, 386-310-3803, www.zionmarketresearch.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Algae Biofuel,  Zion ,  

RFS
Date: 2019-10-21
"All along, I've said what farmers and biofuels producers want is what was promised by Congress. And that's adhering to the biofuels blending targets in law. Ultimately, this will come down to trust and implementation at EPA. The ethanol and biodiesel industries have a lot of cause to distrust EPA and that is understandable. But President (Donald) Trump brokered this deal and any attempt to undermine it from EPA would represent a betrayal of the president. I expect EPA would not do that after all the work that's gone into this issue." -- Sen. Chuck Grassley, (R-Iowa) www.grassley.senate.gov

"We're incredibly frustrated and very disappointed." -- Emily Skor, CEO, Growth Energy, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Chuck Grassley,  Emily Skor,  RFS,  

Date: 2019-10-16
Indian renewable fuels major Growdiesel, a provider of turn-key Bio-CNG, bio-PNG (Piped natural gas), green biodiesel and bio-fertilizer solutions to more than 20 state and federal government organizations, reports it is currently an advisor to the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise and the Skill Council for Green Jobs and will provide funds, equipment, and mentorship to help Indian students and business advance in the biofuels industry.

The company holds more than 50 patents and has issued over 150 research papers on Biofuels. (Source: Growdiesel, PR, Digital Journal, 15 Oct. 2019) Contact: Growdiesel Ventures Ltd., +921 284 4166, www.instagram.com/growdieselventures, www.growdiesel.com

Palm Oil
Date: 2019-10-14
In Paris, France's highest constitutional authority has ruled in favor of excluding palm oil from the list of biofuels that enjoy tax incentives, effective 1st January, 2020. According to the French oil giant Total, the affected palm oil is valued at between &euro:70 million and €80 million per year.

As previously reported, the European Commission ruled palm oil is not a "green" fuel and should not be promoted because it causes deforestation. The use of palm oil in diesel in the EU will be gradually reduced as of 2023 and should reach zero in 2030.

The EU is the world's second largest importer of crude palm oil. In 2018 more than half of all palm imports were used to make biodiesel transportation fuels. (Source: European Commission, Green Car Congress, Oct., 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm Oil,  Biodiesel,  

Yum Brands
Date: 2019-10-14
Yum China Holdings, China's first restaurant company to attain the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification, is touting the success of its recently launched used cooking oil biodiesel pilot project in Chengdu.

Shanghai-headquartered Yum China Holdings Inc. is an American Fortune 500 fast-food restaurant company with over 7,600 restaurants in China and no shortage of use cooking oil feedstock for it biodiesel project.

Yum China launched its first biodiesel conversion pilot project in Chengdu last year and set up a data recording and tracking system with local partners covering those KFC restaurants, waste collection companies, used oil storage sites and biodiesel plants. The system records information about the used oil at every stage of the conversion process. The company plans to selectively roll out the initiative nationwide in the future. (Source: Yum Brands, QSR Web, 14 Oct., 2019) (Contact: Yum China Holdings, www.ir.yumchina.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel news,  

Scania,Refuelling Solutions
Date: 2019-10-11
In the Land Down Under, Scania Australia reports the inking of a biodiesel distribution Memorandum of Understanding Under the terms of the MOU, Refuelling Solutions will support Scania's effort to expand sales of trucks, buses and industrial and marine engines that can run on biofuels.

The company has similar agreements with Just Biodiesel, Ecotech Biodiesel, ethanol fuel supplier Wilmar Bioethanol Australia, and biogas infrastructure suppliers and consultantsthe ENGV Group.

Refuelling Solutions is a 30-year-old Australian-owned and run business that began supplying fuel through its Mini-Tankers operation to onsite equipment in 1987. (Source: Scania Australia, Fleet Owners Network, 10 Oct., 2019) Contact: Scania Australia, +61 3 9217 3300 www.scania.com; Refueling Solutions, www.rfs.com.au

More Low-Carbon Energy News Scania,  Biodiesel,  

National Biodiesel Board
Date: 2019-10-11
According to a recently released National Biodiesel Board (NBB) poll of registered U.S. voters, 81 pct of respondents indicated that a candidate's position on renewable fuels is important, 86 pct said a candidate's position on clean energy is important or very important and 85 pct agreed that it is important that Pres. Trump keep his promises on the RFS.

Nearly 80 pct expressed support for existing federal advanced biofuels programs, 78 pct support the federal tax incentive for biodiesel, and 79 pct support the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) while 79 pct would encourage local communities and governments to promote use of biodiesel. (Source: NBB,Oct., 2019) Contact: NBB, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, (800) 841-5849, www.biodiesel.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Biodiesel Board,  RFS,  Biodiesel,  Ethanol,  Biofuel ,  

Targay
Date: 2019-10-09
Kirkland, Quebec-headquartered international biodiesel marketer and distributor Targray is reporting the opening of its Antwerp Biodiesel Terminal, a 24/7 biofuel storage and blending center serving fuel producers, distributors, traders and retailers Europe-wide.

The opening comes as EU fuel suppliers seek to meet sustainability targets for two key European Commission (EC) directives -- the Fuel Quality Directive (FQD) and the Renewable Energy Directive (RED). The FQD requires a reduction of the greenhouse gas intensity of transport fuels in the EU by a minimum of 6 pct while the RED sets a 20 pct target for renewable energy and a 10 pct target for renewable energy in transport by the end of 2020. (Source: Targray, PR, EIN, 8 Oct., 2019) Contact: Targray, Olivier Benny, (514) 695-8095, www.targray.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Targay,  Biodiesel,  

Norwegian Environment Agency
Date: 2019-10-09
In Oslo, the Norwegian Environment Agency is reporting release of its "green" shipping action plan aimed at reducing emissions from domestic shipping and fishing vessels by half by 2030.

As increasing the use of biodiesel and biogas may be an important means of achieving the aim of halving emissions from domestic shipping by 2030, the Ministry of Climate and Environment has asked the Norwegian Environment Agency, in cooperation with the Norwegian Maritime Authority, to review the possibility and consequences of introducing a biofuel quota obligation for sustainable biodiesel and biogas for shipping.

The plan calls for different approaches for different vessel types: scheduled passenger vessels and ferries, cruise ships and international passenger ferries, cargo vessels, offshore support vessels, specialized vessels including aquaculture service vessels, fishing vessels and recreational craft. To that end, the Government will consider the introduction of incentives for zero- and low-emission ships and also encourage owners to register zero- and low-emission ships.

The action plan is available HERE. (Source: Norwegian Environment Agency, Maritime Exec., 7 Oct., 2019) Contact: Norwegian Environment Agency, www.miljodirektoratet.no

More Low-Carbon Energy News Maritime Emissions,  

Cielo Waste Solutions
Date: 2019-10-02
Further to our 4th Sept. report, Vancouver-based Cielo Waste Solutionm is reporting the date to finalize an investor partnership agreement to construct renewable diesel refineries in Medicine Hat and three other locations in southern Alberta have been stalled to the end of the year.

Cielo notes it is fine tuning the project's waste wood fibre-to fuel technology and awaiting waiting equipment orders and a permit from Alberta Parks and Environment. (Source: Cielo, Medicine Hat News, 1 Oct., 2019) Contact: Cielo Waste Solutions Corp., Don Allan, President & CEO, (403) 348-2972 Ext. 101, donallan@cielows.com, www.cielows.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Cielo Waste Solutions,  Biofuel,  Waste-to-Fuel,  Landfill Waste,  

W2 Fuel
Date: 2019-09-30
In the Hawkeye State, Crawfordsville-based biodiesel producer W2 Fuel LLC reports the shutdown of its 10 million gpy biodiesel plant in Crawfordsville in southeast Iowa, along with a plant in Michigan.

The company cited RFS "hardship" waiver uncertainty and growing losses for the move. (Source: W2 Fuel, Des Moines Register, 25 Sept., 2019) Contact: W2 Fuel, Roy Strom, CEO, 319-658-2003, www.w2fuel.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  W2 Fuel,  Biofuel,  Renewable Fuel,  

W2 Fuel,Iowa Renewable Fuels Association
Date: 2019-09-27
In the Hawkeye State, Radio Iowa is reporting W2 Fuel LLC has temporarily shuttered its 10-million gpy biodiesel plant in in Crawfordsville due to market conditions and uncertainties swirling around the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

According to the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, the Crawfordsville facility is one of 12 biodiesel plants in Iowa. Last year, 365 million gallons of biodiesel was produced in Iowa -- roughly 20 pct of all the biodiesel made in the U.S. (Source: RadioIowa, 25 Sept., 2019) Contact: Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Monte Shaw, Exec. Dir., info@IowaRFA.org, (515) 252-6249, www.iowarfa.org; W2 Fuel LLC, Roy Strom, CEO, (319) 658-2003, www.w2fuel.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  W2 Fuel,  Iowa Renewable Fuels Association,  

Optimus Technologies,NYSERDA
Date: 2019-09-27
The office of New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D) reports Pittsburgh--based truck biodiesel fueling systems manufacturer Optimus Technologies is the $1,000,000 first prize winner in the 76West Clean Energy Competition. The 76West competition supports growing clean energy businesses to foster economic development, according to the release.

A total of $2.5 million was competitively awarded to six companies. A $500,000 winner and four $250,000 winners were also named as part of the competition, which is administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

Other winners included: Radical Plastics of Marblehead, Massachusetts; Buffalo NY-based CleanFiber; Cambridge Crops of Somerville, Massachusetts; Carbon Upcycling Technologies of Calgary, Alberta; and ProsumerGrid of Atlanta, Georgia. (Source: Office of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Business Journal News Network, 25 Sept., 2019) Contact: 76West, www.nyserda.ny.gov/All Programs/Programs/76west; Optimus Technologies, Colin Huwyler, CEO, Ian Winner, (412) 727-8228x6, ian.winner@optimustec.com, www.optimustec.com; Gov. Andrew Cuomo (D), www.governor.ny.gov, www.governor.ny.gov/content/governor-contact-form; NYSERDA, www.nyserda.ny.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Andrew Cuomo,  Optimus Technologies,  Biodiesel,  

Zion Market Research
Date: 2019-09-23
Zion Market Research is touting its recently published Algae Biofuel Market by Type (Bioethanol, Biodiesel, Methane, Jet Fuel, Biobutanol, Biogasoline, Green Diesel, and Others) and for Application (Transportation, Aerospace, and Other Applications): Global Industry Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis and Forecast, 2017 -- 2024 report.

The report covers crucial data associated with worldwide Algae Biofuel Market, highlights the newest technological developments and new launches, and other related developements that impact the algae biofuel market. According to the report the Algae Biofuel Market will will be valued at $9.88 billion by 2024.

Report details are HERE. Request sample copy of Algae Biofuel Market Research Report HERE. (Source: Zion Market Research, Sept., 2019) Contact: Zion Market Research, +49-322 210 92714, USA/Canada Toll-Free No.1-855-465-4651, sales@zionmarketresearch.com, www.zionmarketresearch.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Zion Market Research ,  Algae,  Algae Biofuel,  

U.S. Energy Information Administration
Date: 2019-09-16
On September 13, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) released its first annual U.S. Biodiesel Plant Production Capacity Report. The report includes the total biodiesel production capacity for all operating plants in both million gallons per year (gal/y) and barrels per day (b/d) as of January 1, 2019. The names of the reporting plants are organized by Petroleum Administration for Defense Districts (PADD). Like the Ethanol Plant Production Capacity Report, EIA plans to update the report annually.

The 2019 U.S. Biodiesel Plant Production Capacity Report shows 102 operating biodiesel plants with 2.6 billion gpy in biodiesel production capacity, or 167,000 bpd. More than half of the nation's biodiesel production capacity is in the Midwest region, led by Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois. Of the top 15 biodiesel-producing states, 9 are located in the Midwest.

U.S.biodiesel production topped 1.8 billion gallons (119,000 bpd) in 2018, implying a 72 pct utilization rate based on the nameplate capacity level recorded at the beginning of 2018.

In its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), EIA forecasts that U.S. production of biodiesel will reach about 2.0 billion gallons (128,000 bpd) in 2019, resulting in 77 pct utilization of reported nameplate capacity as of January 1, 2019.

Respondents report the biodiesel production capacity data to EIA on Form EIA-22M, Monthly Biodiesel Production Survey, and EIA publishes the data in the Monthly Biodiesel Production Report. All entities that produce biodiesel that meets ASTM D 6751-07B specifications and is used for commercial purposes within the United States submit Form EIA-22M. Additional data collected on Form EIA-22M include production, sales, stock changes, and feed stock inputs to production. (Source: US EIA Release, Sept., 2019) Contact: US EIA, www.eia.gov/petroleum/ethanolcapacity

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  U.S. Energy Information Administration,