National Biodiesel Board
Date: 2019-08-12
"Less than two months after vowing to always protect and defend American farmers, President Trump is bowing to oil industry pressure and allowing his EPA to dismantle the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program, force U.S. biodiesel producers out of business, and undermine the farm economy. EPA and administration personnel are well aware that the ongoing spree of big oil exemptions destroy demand for biodiesel and render the RFS program meaningless.

"Biodiesel producers are already shutting down facilities and laying off workers, due to loss of demand. The ongoing demand destruction will undercut the industry's investments and choke off markets for surplus agricultural oils, adding to the economic hardship that farmers are facing. The Trump administration's action represents a fundamental betrayal of previous promises to farmers and the agricultural economy." (Source: National Biodiesel Board, 10 Aug., 2019) Contact: NBB, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, (800) 841-5849, www.biodiesel.org

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

EPA,RFS,Renewable Fuels Association,American Coalition of Ethanol
Date: 2019-08-12
On Friday the 9th, the Trump administration EPA, under the administration of former coal industry lobbyist Andrew R, Wheeler, granted 31 more controversial "hardship waivers" allowing refiners to ignore Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) ethanol blending requirements in what might be construed as the administration's and the agency's attempt to bury the RFS in blatant favor of Big Oil. The agency denied 6 waiver requests and left one additional waiver request undecided.

Needless to say, the President has yet again misled his supporters and the biofuels industry -- along with just about everyone else both domestic and foreign. In response, ethanol and biofuels players and industry organizations wasted no time in venting their rightful outrage.

"The Trump Administration's approval of 31 refinery exemptions from the Renewable Fuel Standard is just devastating news for our industry. With this action, President Trump has destroyed over a billion gallons of biofuel demand and broken his promise to Iowa voters to protect the RFS. The vast majority of these exemptions are not justified under the law. Since this news began to leak this afternoon, RFS credit prices have freefallen to nearly zero, destroying much of the incentive to blend an incremental gallon of ethanol." -- Monte Shaw, Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Exec. Dir.,

"At a time when ethanol plants in the Heartland are being mothballed and jobs are being lost, it is unfathomable and utterly reprehensible that the Trump Administration would dole out more unwarranted waivers to prosperous petroleum refiners. Today's announcement comes as a total shock, as just two months ago Trump himself heard directly from Iowa farmers and ethanol plant workers about the disastrous economic impacts of these small refinery handouts. In response, he (Trump) told us he would 'look into it' and we believed that would lead to the White House and EPA finally putting an end to these devastating waivers. Instead, the Trump administration chose to double down on the exemptions, greatly exacerbating the economic pain being felt in rural America and further stressing an industry already on life support." -- Geoff Cooper, Pres., CEO, Renewable Fuels Association.

"EPA's refiner-win-at-all-costs oversight of the RFS is doing real damage to America's farmers and renewable fuel producers who are already suffering from trade wars and volatile markets. The RFS is supposed to ensure the use of ethanol and biodiesel increases from one year to the next, but 85 Small Refinery Exemptions later and over 3 billion waived gallons represents an enormous step backwards." -- Brian Jennings, CEO, American Coalition of Ethanol.

As previously noted, "hardship waivers" were intended for refineries producing 75,000 bpd or less and suffered "disproportionate economic hardship" from the costs of RFS compliance. The waiver frees the refineries from an obligation to provide the EPA with biofuels credits proving compliance. Under the now vanquished administrator Greg Pruitt's direction, the EPA handed out 54 exemptions over two years and not a single request for an exemption was denied. (Source: Various Media, AgPro, 9 Aug., 2019) Contact: Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, Monte Shaw, Exec. Dir., info@IowaRFA.org, (515) 252-6249, www.iowarfa.org; Renewable Fuels Association, www.ethanolrfa.org; American Coalition of Ethanol, www.ethanol.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Iowa Renewable Fuels Association,  RFS,  "Hardship Waiver",  Ethanol Blend,  Renewable Fuels Association,  ,  

National Biodiesel Board,California Advanced Biofuels Alliance.
Date: 2019-08-09
In Sacramento, the California State Water Board reports it has approved the storage of biodiesel blends of up to 20 pct (B20) in underground storage tanks, removing the final barrier to ensuring the state has access to sufficient volumes of the biofuel. A 10-year campaign to prove that B20 is compatible underground was supported by the National Biodiesel Board (NBB), several member companies and the California Advanced Biofuels Alliance.

Biodiesel is key to the state meeting its Low Carbon Fuel Standard. The California Air Resources Board claims that biodiesel reduces greenhouse gases by at least 50 pct, and up to as much as 81 pct , compared to petroleum. The California State Water Resources Board ruled that a 20 pct blend of biodiesel (meeting the ASTM standard for B20, D7467) "shall be recognized as equivalent to diesel for the purpose of complying with existing approval requirements for double-walled USTs, unless any material or component of the UST system has been determined to not be compatible with B20." The regulation comes into force from 1 October 2019. (Source: California State Water Board, California Advanced Biofuels Alliance, Biofuels Int'l, 7 Aug., 2019) Contact: California State Water Board, www.waterboards.ca.gov; NBB, Donnell Rehagen, CEO, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, (800) 841-5849, www.biodiesel.org; California Advanced Biofuels Alliance, www.caadvancedbiofuelsalliance.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  National Biodiesel Board,  NBB,  California Advanced Biofuels Alliance.,  

American AllWaste,Onsite Environmental
Date: 2019-08-09
NYC-based NewHold Enterprises, LLC (NewHold), a holding company focused on long-term ownership and acquisition-led growth of middle-market industrial and services companies, is reporting American AllWaste LLC has acquired the assets of OnSite Environmental, Inc. (Onsite), Tennessee’s leading provider of non-hazardous liquid waste hauling and treatment services. Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

Onsite covers Tennessee with trucking services and processing facilities of wastes including leachate, grease and grit and grease trap waste, oily waters. The company also processes byproducts reused in agriculture as a beneficial soil amendment approved by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. Onsite also produces nearly 500,000 gpy of brown grease for biodiesel production. (Source: American AllWaste, PR 8 Aug., 2019)Contact: American AllWaste, www.allwastecorp.com; New Hold LLC, (212) 653-0153, info@newholdllc.com, www.newholdllc.com; Onsite Environmental, www.onsite-env.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News American AllWaste,  Biodiesel,  

USDA
Date: 2019-08-09
The USDA is reporting Argentina's fuel ethanol production and consumption remains stable with 2019 forecast at 1.1 billion liters with no trade expected and the E12 mandate blend near 11.5 pct.

Biodiesel production in 2019 is projected to drop 9 pct year-over-year to 2.5 billion liters, following a 15 pct drop in 2018 with declining exports and production capacity use falling to 50 pct. Domestic consumption reflects little change at 1.3 billion liters, a near record high since 2017 but with no sustained upward movement since the B10 mandate was essentially met.

Exports are forecast at 1.2 billion liters, down 400 million liters from last year. Argentina's duty-free quota of 1.36 billion liters with a minimum set price to the EU is not expected to fill this year. No biodiesel exports are expected in 2019 to the US despite its preliminary lowering of countervailing duties due to remaining anti-dumping duties. (Source: USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, GAIN Network, 7 Aug., 2019) Contact: USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, gain.fas.usda.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News Fuel Ethanol,  Argentina Ethanol,  

USDA Foreign Agricultural Service
Date: 2019-08-09
Although Beijing's push to improve air quality is emerging as the major driver for expanded fuel ethanol production and use, Chinas ethanol policy in 2019 remains a patchwork of provincial and municipal-level policies, according to a USDA report.

China's central and provincial authorities have not renewed subsidies for ethanol production. Without clear incentives and enforceable compliance measures, the country's ethanol industry will struggle to raise the level of biofuels use in transportation fuels to meet China's E10 goal by 2020. As a result of restrictive ethanol investment and trade policies, China will most likely achieve a blend rate of only 3.0 to 3.5 pct by 2020. Biodiesel remains neglected except for a limited program in Shanghai, the USDA report claims. (Source: USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, GAIN Network, 7 Aug., 2019) Contact: USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, gain.fas.usda.gov

JBS Biodiesel,
Date: 2019-07-31
Brazilian global food company JBS reports it will invest approximately $48 million in another biodiesel plant in Mafra, Santa Catarina, Brazil.

The new 900 tpd plant, which will be operated by JBS Biodiesel, a JBS Novos Negocios division, will use locally sourced pork and poultry fat supplements with soybean as a a feedstock . (Source: JBS, PR, 31 July, 2019) Contact: JBS Biodiesel, www.jbs.com.br

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  JBS Biodiesel,  ,  

EgyptAir, World Energy,
Date: 2019-07-29
In Cairo, Egypt's national air carrier, EgyptAir is reporting receipt of its newest Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The Dreamliner flew 10,973 kilometres from Seattle to Cairo fueled solely by sustainable aviation fuel to become the world's longest sustainable flight.

EgyptAir is the first operator to use Boeing's new sustainable fuel delivery program that gives airlines the option to pick biofuel for aircraft delivery flights. Sustainable aviation fuels have been shown to help reduce aircraft CO2 emissions by up to 80 per cent. The biodiesel biofuel used to power the Dreamliner was created from agricultural waste by Boston-headquartered World Energy at its Paramount, California facility which was designed to produce renewable jet fuel on a commercial scale. (Source: EgyptAir, N Lifestyle, 28 July, 2019) Contact: World Energy, 617-889-7300, Fax: 617-887-2411, info@worldenergy.net, www.worldenergy.net

More Low-Carbon Energy News EgyptAir,  Jet Biofuel,  Aviation Biofuel,  World Energy ,  

Date: 2019-07-29
! Castrol oil, with a high specific gravity, thickness and hydroxyl value, is used either in its refined hydrogenated form or crude form, is primarily used for the production of various bio-based chemicals, biodiesel fuel and other valuable products.

According to the report, the Asia Pacific region is expected to dominate the castor oil derivatives market in the time period 2018-26. India is projected to be the major production hub of castor oil derivatives globally, followed by Brazil, Russia, Paraguay, Philippines, Brazil, China, Ethiopia, and Thailand.

Some prominent market players of global castor oil and derivatives market are Liaoyang Huaxing Chemical Co., ITOH Oil Chemicals Co. Ltd., Jayant Agro Organics, Bom Brazil, Hokoku Corporation, Ltd., Kanak Castor Products Pvt. Ltd., Thai Castor Oil Industries Co. Ltd., Gokul Overseas, and others are among the major global players in the castor oil market.

Download report details HERE and HERE (Source: The Market Plan, 28 July, 2019) Request For Table of Contents: https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/requesttoc/9536

More Low-Carbon Energy News Castor Oil,  Biochemical,  Biofuel,  

Benson Hill Biosystems
Date: 2019-07-29
St. Louis-based crop improvement specialist Benson Hill Biosystems is reporting a partnership with Wisconsin-based Brownseed Genetics, a seed breeder of new corn hybrids that offer significant added value for growers, livestock, and ethanol and biodiesel producers. The hybrids yield about 9 percent corn oil -- nearly triple the normal production -- and are rich in the amino acids lysine and methionine, according to the release.

Because of their higher calorie and nutrient content, Brownseed hybrids already enjoy steady growth in the livestock industry. Now, with its E+ hybrid, the company is taking aim at the corn-to-ethanol industry. Most ethanol plants require only limited modifications in their line process to accommodate the hybrid, the release added. (Source: Benson Hills Biosystems, PR 29 July, 2019) Contact: Benson Hills Biosystems, 314-222-8218, www.bensonhillbio.com; Brownseed Genetics, Charles Brown, CEO, Brownseed Genetics, ctwww.brownseedgenetics.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Corn Ethanol,  

University of Belgrade Institute for Multidisciplinary Research
Date: 2019-07-26
Serbian scientists at the University of Belgrade's Institute for Multidisciplinary Research report they have increased the production of lipids in algae by around 30 pct through the method of "positive stressing" with sunlight which could contribute to the use of algae as a biological fuel and thus lower the price of biodiesel . The Institute already produces oxygen from microalgae.

Under the title of Radiation Hormesis in the Service of Increasing Biomass Yields from Microalgae the project began in 2017, under the NATO programme Science for Peace and Security in cooperation with the University of Manchester, Baylor University in Texas, and UK-based Varicon Aqua Company which produces bioreactors and systems that grow microalgae.

The project is expected to be completed in August 2020. (Source: University of Belgrade Institute for Multidisciplinary Research, Serbian Monitor, 24 July, 2019) Contact: University of Belgrade Institute for Multidisciplinary Research, Dr. Sonja Veljovic Jovanovic, Dir., +381-11/3555-258, Fax: +381-11/3055-289, direktor@imsi.rs, office@imsi.rs, www.imsi.bg.ac.rs

More Low-Carbon Energy News Algae,  Biodiesel,  

AMP Americas
Date: 2019-07-26
Chicago-based AMP Americas, a clean-tech startup that turns cow manure into renewable natural gas (RNG) for transportation fuel, reports it has raised another $75 million for construction of two new facilities that would double its RNG production capacity. Solid location and ground breaking dates have not been disclosed .

At its existing facilities, AMP produces 5 million gpy of biodiesel from waste processed at nearby dairy farms. The new plants will allow AMP to produce almost 5 million additional gallons.

In addition to this new $75 million investment, AMP recently closed on an investment by an unnamed infrastructure investor as part of a recapitalization and sold its 20 ampCNG fueling stations to American Natural Gas for $41 million. It also launched an operating services business and expanded its RNG marketing and risk management business.

AMP was the first company to bring dairy RNG to market and is the only producer delivering dairy renewable natural gas to California trucking fleets, including UPS, under the low-carbon fuel standard, according to AMP. (Source: AMP Website, Crains, 25 July, 2019) Contact: Amp Americas, Grant Zimmerman, CEO, info@ampamericas.com, (312) 300-6700, (312) 380-0206 - fax., www.ampamericas.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News AMP Americas,  RNG,  CNG,  

Renewable Energy Group
Date: 2019-07-26
Ames, Iowa-based Renewable Energy Group (REGI) reports it is mothballing its New Boston, Texas biorefinery due to challenging business conditions and continued federal policy uncertainty -- the long-lapsed federal biodiesel tax credit, the company said. The 15-million gpy biodiesel plant near Texarkana, Texas, is capable of running both high and low free fatty acid feedstocks and has truck and rail access.

REGI operates 14 biorefineries in the US and Europe. In 2018, the company produced 502 million gallons of cleaner fuel delivering over 4 million metric tons of carbon reduction. (Source: REGI, PR, 25 July, 2019) Contact: REGI, Cynthia J. Warner, President and CEO, 515-239-8000, www.regi.com

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

EPA, RVO
Date: 2019-07-24
The US EPA's recently proposed 2020 and 2012 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) require 91 billion litres of renewable fuels to be blended into the US fuel supply in 2020, up from 90.5bn litres in 2019 -- 23 billion litres of advanced biofuels, 11 billion litres of biomass-based diesel - which was set last year and is the same for 2021, and 2.4 billion litres of cellulosic biofuel -- up 545 million litres from the 2019 figure.

The proposed RVO would require biofuels to make up 10.92 pct of US transportation fuel, including 2.75 pct advanced biofuels, 1.99 pct biomass-based diesel and 0.29 pct cellulosic biofuel.

The rule making also proposed amendments to the RFS regulations including: clarification of diesel RVO calculations; pathway petition conditions; a biodiesel esterification pathway; distillers corn oil and distillers oil pathways; renewable fuel exporter provisions allowing the production of biomass-based diesel from separated food waste; flexibilities for renewable fuel blending for military use; heating oil used for cooling; RFS facility ownership changes; additional registration deactivation justifications; a new Renewable Identification Number (RIN) retirement; a new pathway for co-processing biomass with petroleum to produce cellulosic diesel, jet fuel and heating oil; public access to information; and other revisions. The amendments came as part of the as yet finalized Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support rule. (Source: EPA, Oils & Fats Int'l., 22 July, 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuel Standard,  RVO,  Biofuel Blend,  

Just Biodiesel
Date: 2019-07-19
In the Land Down Under, Just Biodiesel Pty Ltd. is reporting the re-launch of the 13.2 million gpy biodiesel production plant at Barnawatha, Victoria State, formerly owned by Australian Renewable Fuels (ARF) and Biodiesel Producers (BPL).

The plant processes locally sourced tallow and used cooking oil into biodiesel and is now supplying B5 and B20 fuel through distribution partners Refuelling Solutions and Viva Energy. The company also plans to begin exporting its product to the U.S. market in California in August.

The reopening of the formerly bankrupt plant is seen as a possible renaissance for the low-carbon alternative fuel which fell out of favour earlier in the decade due to falling conventional diesel prices, new federal governments excise of biofuels and the hangover from reliability and quality issues among some suppliers. (Source: Just Biodiesel, PR, ATN, 18 July, 2019) Contact: Justr Biodiesel, Greg Boyall,General Manager, +61 0401 700 543, greg.boyall@justbiodiesel.com.au, www.justbiodiesel.com.au

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  

MRS Research
Date: 2019-07-17
MRS Research Group has announced the availability of its Global Automotive Biofuels Market 2019 report.

The study examines important changes in consumer behavior and its business impact by market participants on development strategies. It also provides detailed information on automotive biofuel market trends, industry associations, global market players by size, market share and related standards and factors.

Request a report sample HERE. Access Full Report With TOC HERE. (Source: MRS Research Group, 16 July, 2019)Contact: MRS Research, www.mrsresearchgroup.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel,  Transportation Biofuel,  Ethanol,  Biodiesel,  

Biodiesel
Date: 2019-07-17
Reporting from Jakarta, the Indonesian Deputy Energy Minister Arcandra Tahar has announced that the government plans a mandatory increase in biodiesel-gasoline blend rate from the present 20 pct (B20) to 30 pct (B30) in 2020. The Deputy Minister also foresees a 55 pct rise in unblended biodiesel consumption in 2020.

Indonesia is the world's leading palm oil exporter and consumer at an estimated 2.89 million kl of un-blended biodiesel in H1 2019. (Source: Indonesian Energy Ministry, Successful Farming, Reuters, 15 July, 2019) Contact: Indonesian Energy Ministry, www.esdm.go.id/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Indonesian,  Biodiesl,  Biodiesel Blend,  

Aemetis
Date: 2019-07-17
Following up on our 22nd May coverage, Cupertino, California-based advanced renewable fuels and biochemicals specialist Aemetis, Inc. reports its Universal Biofuels India subsidiary in Hydrbad ramped revenues to over $50 million per year run rate after biodiesel shipments commenced in May -- pursuant to a previously announced $23 million biodiesel supply contract to the three India government-owned Oil Marketing Companies (OMC's).

In late 2018, the three India OMC's that supply about 70 pct of the country's domestic diesel issued purchase requests for about 260 million gallons of biodiesel for year 2019 -- equal to India's total biodiesel production capacity.

As previously reported, the Aemetis biodiesel plant in India recently completed the installation and commissioning of a pre-treatment plant and related utilities upgrades to convert lower cost, waste feedstocks into high quality distilled biodiesel to supply the approximately 25 billion gallon diesel market in India. (Source: Aemetis, PR, EIN, 16 July, 2019)Contact: Aemetis, Eric McAfee, CEO , Todd Waltz, (408) 213-0940, emcafee@aemetis.com, www.aemetis.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis,  Biodiesel,  Aemetis India,  

Advanced Biofuels Canada
Date: 2019-07-17
Vancouver-based Advanced Biofuels Canada (ABC) reports the release of its Biofuels in Canada 2019 report prepared by Navius Research Inc. (Navius). Advanced Biofuels Canada is a national industry association established to: promote the production and use of advanced biofuels in Canada; collaborate with other stakeholders to expand market access for sustainable low-carbon biofuels in Canada, and; collaborate broadly to de-carbonize transportation.

This 2019 analysis updates the Biofuels in Canada 2016, 2017 and 2018 reports, and is intended to evaluate and communicate the impact of renewable and low-carbon fuel policy in Canada by: quantifying the volumes of renewable transportation fuels consumed in each Canadian province(i.e. biofuel), characterized by fuel type, feedstock, and CI. The biofuels include ethanol, biodiesel and hydrogenation derived renewable diesel (HDRD); estimating their impact on GHG emissions and; estimating their impact on energy costs, now with an additional focus on how fuel taxes affect these costs.

View the Biofuels in Canada 2019 report HERE (Source: Advanced Biofuels Canada, July, 2019) Contact: Advanced Biofuels Canada, Ian Thompson, Pres., (604) 947-0040, ithomson@advancedbiofuels.ca, www.advancedbiofuels.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Advanced Biofuels Canada,  

Synergy
Date: 2019-07-15
In Uttar Pradesh, India's Synergy Teletech Pvt. Ltd is reporting the launch of its new 'Synergy Green Diesel', a distilled grade biodiesel fuel aimed at the "non-transport, B2B" market -- including MSMEs, hotels, RWAs, office complex, construction sites, telecom towers, etc.

The new fuel is also less costly than regular diesel ang be used in existing diesel engines without engine modifications, according to the company release. (Source: Synergy Teletech Pvt. Ltd, ET Auto, 11 July, 2019) Contact: Synergy Teletech Pvt. Ltd, Prasan Surana, Founder, +91 120 483 6000, www.synergyteletech.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  Green Diesel,  

European Commission,MERCOSUR
Date: 2019-07-15
The European Union's European Commission (EC) is reporting a trade deal with the South American Mercosur trading bloc that will open the European market to more imports of ethanol and crops that are used to make high-emitting biofuel.

Under the deal crops and ethanol produced in MERCOSUR member countries -- Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay -- could be used to meet the EU's green transport fuel targets. The agreement also allows for a lower tariff rate on ethanol imports to be phased in over five years: a quota of 200,000 tonnes with an in-quota rate of one-third of the current high duty of up to €19/hectolitre will be opened for fuel and other uses beyond the chemical industry, according to a EC briefing. The agreement also reduces or eliminates duties that MERCOSUR currently imposes on exports of soybean products to the EU, the Commission said. This could make soy a more attractive feedstock for biodiesel producers in Europe.

Argentine soy diesel, imports of refined biodiesel tripled from 2017 to 2018, with palm oil and soy accounting for around 86 pct of all biodiesel imports. (Source: EU EC, Transport & Environment, 11 July, 2019) Contact: MERCOSUR, www.mercosur.int/en/about-mercosur/mercosur-countries

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

Cielo Waste Solutions
Date: 2019-07-12
Red Deer, Alberta-based Cielo Waste Solutions is reporting the opening of its first Alberta biorefinery in the community of Aldersyde, Southern Alberta, where it will turn locally-sourced landfill household waste into renewable diesel transportation fuel. The company plans to open four additional refineries in the municipalities of Brooks, Calgary, Grande Prairie and Medicine Hat, sometime in 2020.

According to Cielo, their technology creates "high-grade, low-cost renewable diesel fuel" that differs from other traditional biofuels that come from food sources. Cielo also claims its product can be blended and sold on the Alberta government's mandated renewable diesel market. It also produces virtually no emissions, the company says. (Source: Cielo, GlobalNews, 11 July, 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,  

Verbio,Atlantic Biodiesel
Date: 2019-07-10
Further to out May 3rd coverage, Leipzig, Germany's Verbio Vereinigte BioEnergie Group subsidiary VERBIO Diesel Canada reports it has completed its previously announced purchase of Dain City, Ontario-based Atlantic Biodiesel.

The biodiesel plant has an annual capacity of approximately 150,000 tonnes of biodiesel and 18,000 tpy of raw glycerine. Operations are expected to resume in August 2019. With the purchase, VERBIO has increased its total biodiesel production capacity to approximately 620,000 tpy. (Source: VERBIO, Biofuel Int'l, 9 July, 2019) Contact: Atlantic Biodiesel, (888) 339-3132, www.atlanticbiodiesel.com; VERBIO, +49 (0) 3493 747-40, www.verbio.de/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Verbio,  Atlantic Biodiesel,  Biodiesel,  

Biodiesel
Date: 2019-07-08
In Tehran, the Biotechnology Development Council, affiliated to the Vice Presidency for Science and Technology, is reporting the first phase of the city of Tehran's three-year pilot project using biodiesel in the city of 8.3 million residents bus transport fleet. The use of locally produced biodiesel cut carbon emissions by 160,000 kilograms, according to the release.

In the pilot project, 20 of the city's 300 diesel buses were operated on biodiesel through the first phase of the scheme. To date more than 60,000 liters of biodiesel have been produced and consumed in the pilot project. (Source: MEHR, Tehran Times, 7 July, 2019) Contact: Biotechnology Development Council, www.nti.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  Carbon Emissions,  

Flint Hills Resources
Date: 2019-07-03
Citing "tough economic times", Flint Hills Resources reports it is closing its 50-million gpy biodiesel plant in Beatrice, Nebraska. The plant, which produces biodiesel from waste fats and oils, tallow, and distillers' corn oil, is at an unusual competitive disadvantage to plants that use lower priced soybean oil.

The 2008 vintage, $50 million plant was acquired by Flint Hills for $5 million at a 2011 and began production in 2016 after Flint Hills spent roughly $100 million to retrofit the facility to use corn oil and grease. In a 2016 news release, the company touted what was the first commercial-scale application of Benefuel Inc.'s ENSEL technology. (Source: Flint Hills Resources, DTN, 2 July, 2019) Contact: Flint Hills Resources, Brad Razook, CEO, (316) 828-3477, www.fhr.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Benefuel,  Beatrice,  Flint Hills Resources,  Ethanol,  

Total
Date: 2019-07-03
In Paris, energy major Total reports it has begun production at the La Mede biorefinery in southeastern France, with the first batches of biofuel coming off the line. It is the final step in converting the former oil refinery into a new energies complex.

Launched in 2015, the Mede biorefinery can produce 500,000 tpy of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), a premium biofuel, as well as biodiesel and biojet fuel for the aviation industry. The facility was specifically designed to process all types of oil. Its biofuels will be made: 60 to 70 pct from 100 pct sustainable vegetable oils (rapeseed, palm, sunflower, etc.), and 30 to 40 pct from treated waste (animal fats, cooking oil, residues, etc.).

As part of May, 2018 agreement with the French Government, Total has pledged to process no more than 300,000 tpy of palm oil -- less than 50 pct of the total volume of raw materials needed -- and at least 50,000 tpy of French-grown rapeseed, creating another market for domestic agriculture. All the oils processed will be certified sustainable to European Union standards.

Total is also examining different biomass conversion pathways, such as thermochemical, biotechnology and algae, and is working in its own laboratories and via R&D partnerships with manufacturers, start-ups, universities and private laboratories, including BioTfueL, Novogy and Renmatix. (Source: Total Website, PR, 3 July, 2018) Contact: Total, Investor Relations: +44 (0 )207 719 7962 l, ir@total.com, www.total.com

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

Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-op
Date: 2019-07-03
In British Columbia, Duncan-based biodiesel producer Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-op is reporting the opening of its second Green & Go blending pump in the Cowichan Valley. The installation came in at about $100,000, $20,00 of which The co-op, which was founded in 2005, produces biodiesel from locally sourced recycled waste cooking oil. collected from Vancouver Island restaurants since 2005. The cost of installing the new pump was approximately $100,000, with $20,000 coming from the Municipality of North Cowichan's Climate Action & Energy Plan. (Source: Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-op, PR, Lake Cowichan Gazette, 2 July, 2019) Contact: Cowichan BioDiesel Co-op, Brian Roberts, Pres., (250) 748-2604, www.cowichanbiodiesel.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-op,  

Renewable Energy Group ,REGI
Date: 2019-07-01
Ames, Iowa-based Biofuels producer Renewable Energy Group (REGI) is touting a new website www.regi.com that includes hundreds of resources about biodiesel, renewable diesel, and emission-cutting fuels.

The new website also features a resource center with white papers, case studies, tips, articles and information for the news media. This library serves as a centralized location for visitors to learn about the environmental, performance, and financial benefits of biodiesel, renewable diesel, and other fuels. (Source: REGI, 1 July, 2019) Contact: REGI, 515-239-8000, www.regi.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News REGImBiofuel,  Biodiesel,  

Global Fuels
Date: 2019-06-28
Rochester, Minnesota-based industrial auctioneer Maas Companies is reporting the upcoming auction of Global Fuels' $11 million, 5 million GPY biodiesel plant, located in Dexter, Missouri. The facility was constructed in 2007 with an initial capacity of 3.1 million GPY and upgraded to 5 million GPY in 2013. The upgrade also enabled feedstock processing with free fatty acid content up to 15 pct.

The assets are to be sold via a sealed bid auction as the owner is retiring, with a deadline for offers set at 23 July 2019. (Source: Maas Companies, June, 2019) Contact: Maas Companies, (507)285-1444, www.masscompanies.com; Global Fuels LLC, (573) 614-7410, www.globalfuelsllc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Global Fuels,  Biodiesel,  Maas Companies,  

Diesel Technology Forum, Renewable Energy Group
Date: 2019-06-21
The Washington, D.C.-headquartered not-for-profit Diesel Technology Forum (DTF) is reporting Ames, Iowa-based biodiesel producer Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (REGI)has joined its ranks.

The Diesel Technology Forum promotes the use of the newest clean diesel technologies, including biodiesel and advanced renewable diesel fuels in the U.S. and worldwide.

Since its founding in 1996, REGI has produced more than 2 billion gallons of biomass-based diesel -- biodiesel -- fuel; constructed or acquired commercial-scale biofuel refineries across the United States and in Europe; and established a delivery and supply network for biodiesel and other renewable fuels. The company operates 14 active biorefineries, technology development capabilities and a diverse and growing intellectual property portfolio.

The not-for-profit Diesel Technology Forum is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of diesel engines, fuel and technology. Forum members are leaders in clean diesel technology and represent the three key elements of the modern clean-diesel system: advanced engines, vehicles and equipment, cleaner diesel fuel and emissions-control systems. (Source: Diesel Technology Forum, PR, Global News Wire, 20 June, 2019) Contact: Diesel Technology Forum , Allan Schaffer, Exec. Dir., Sarah Dirndorfer, 301-668-7230, sdirndorfer@dieselforum.org, www.dieselforum.org; REGI, Gary Haer, VP, (515) 239-8104, www.regi.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Diesel Technology Forum ,  Renewable Energy Group,  Biofuel,  Biodiesel,  

Jakarta Biodiesel Palm Oil
Date: 2019-06-14
In Jakarta, the Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry reports it has begun a four month test of palm oil biodiesel and petroleum diesel blended B30 transportation fuel. If the tests prove successful, the intent is to increase the present mandated B20 blend rate to B30 beginning in 2020.

The increase is seen as an effort by the world's top palm oil exporter to increase the domestic demand for palm oil. It is hoped the move will increase consumption of bio-content made from palm oil from an estimated 6.2 KL in 2019 to as much as 9 million kilolitres (KL) per year. (Source: Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, Reuters, June, 2019) Contact: Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry, www.esdm.go.id/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News B30,  Palm Oil Biodiesel,  Biodiese Blends,  

Aemetis,
Date: 2019-06-14
Following up on our 22nd May coverage, Cupertino, California-headquartered Aemetis, Inc. is reporting its Aemetis Universal Biofuels India subsidiary achieved record domestic biodiesel revenues in May as shipments commenced under the previously announced $23 million biodiesel supply contract to the three government-owned Oil Marketing Companies.

The Aemetis biodiesel plant in India recently completed the installation and commissioning of a pretreatment plant and related utilities upgrades to convert waste feedstocks into distilled biodiesel to supply the approximately 25 billion gpy diesel market in India.(Source: Aemetis Inc., PR, Canadian Biomass, 13 June, 2019)Contact: Aemetis, Eric McAfee, CEO , Todd Waltz, (408) 213-0940, emcafee@aemetis.com, www.aemetis.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis,  Biodiesel,  Aemetis India,  

University of Minnesota
Date: 2019-06-07
The University of Minnesota reports $5 million in government funding for a soybean crush and biodiesel facility for the Soy Innovation Campus in Crookston has been approved, effective July, 2020.

The Soy Innovation Campus will include a specialty crushing facility conducive to educational purposes. (Source: University of Minnesota, Crookston Times, 6 June, 2019) Contact: Soy Innovation Campus University of Minnesota Crookston, www.mnsoybean.org, mnsoybean.org/blog-msga/soy-innovation-campus-gaining-traction-in-st-paul

More Low-Carbon Energy News Soy,  Biodiesel,  

California Air Resources Board
Date: 2019-06-07
In Sacramento, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) is reporting a $1.36 million settlement with Tesoro Refining & Marketing LLC -- now Marathon Petroleum Corp. -- for misreporting 1.9 billion gallons of gasoline, diesel, biodiesel and ethanol, including under-reporting 403 million gallons of LCFS deficit-generating fuels, thus violating the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS).

The LCFS requires that regulated fuel producers report the carbon generated in the production of transportation fuels sold in California. The inaccurate information spanned 24 quarterly reports.

The LCFS, which encourages the use of cleaner, low-carbon fuels, is one of several programs developed under The Global Warming Solutions Act (A.B.32). It works with other A.B.32 programs, such as cap-and-trade, the zero-emission vehicle program and the renewable portfolio standard, to achieve California's GHG-reduction goals. (Source: CARB, 31 May, 2019) Contact: California Air Resources Board, Melanie Turner, Information Officer, (916) 322-2990, melanie.turner@arb.ca.gov, www.arb.ca.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News California Air Resources Board ,  Low Carbon Fuel Standard,  

Total
Date: 2019-05-31
Paris-headquartered French energy major TOTAL is reporting the impending start-up of its often delayed 500,000 tpy palm oil biodiesel refinery in La Mede in southern France. The facility is expected to begin production within "two weeks."

TOTAL has committed to use less than 300,000 tonnes of crude palm oil per year at La Mede out of a total of 650,000 tonnes of feed stocks which could include oils from other plants, recycled animal fat, cooking oil and industrial oil. (Source: TOTAL, Indian Economic Times, May, 2019) Contact: TOTAL, Patrick Pouyanne, CEO, www.total.com

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

Malaysian Palm Oil Board
Date: 2019-05-31
In Beijing, 180 sanitary trucks will be fueled with Malaysian palm oil biodiesel in a 20 month pilot project carried out by Tsinghua University in collaboration with Beijing TUS-Deqing Bioenergy and the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB). The tests will be conducted with blended biodiesel containing 5 pct, 10 pct and 20 pct of palm oil respectively.

Beijing TUS-Deqing Bioenergy is a subsidiary of TUS Clean Energy, a commercial arm of Tsinghua University. Beijing TUS-Deqing Bioenergy plans to invest in a project to modify an existing biodiesel plant in Malaysia using its enzymatic technology.

. Malaysia has implemented a domestic 10 pct palm biodiesel and 90 pct petrol diesel (B10) program in its national transportation sector. (Source: Malaysian Palm Oil Board, The Star, 28 May, 2019) Contact: Tsinghua University, www.tsinghua.edu.cn; Beijing TUS-Deqing Bioenergy, en.tusholdings.com/index.php/59682c1b03b?zid=3; Malaysian Palm Oil Board, www.mpob.gov.my

More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm Oil,  Biodiesel,  Malaysian Palm Oil Board,  

BP,NEXT Renewable Fuels
Date: 2019-05-31
Portland, Oregon-based advanced biofuels producer NEXT Renewable Fuels reports entering into a long-term feedstock supply agreement with BP Products North America (BP) for approximately 2 million tpy of renewable feedstocks -- animal fats and tallows, used cooking oil,greases and virgin seed oils -- for NEXT's planned renewable diesel facility in Port Westward, Oregon.

The Port Westward facility is slated for completion and commissioning in 2021. (Source: NEXT Renewable Fuels, Biofuels Int'l., 29 May, 2019) Contact: NEXT Renewable Fuels, Lou Soumas, Pres., info@nextrenewables.com, www.nextrenewables.com; BP, Jason Breslaw, Renewable Feedstock and Bio-distillate Business Development Manager, www.bp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News BP,  NEXT Renewable Fuels,  Renewable Diesel,  Biodiesel,  

University of Turku
Date: 2019-05-29
Finland's University of Turku doctoral candidate Mikael Jamsa is touting his work on converting algae and cyanobacteria -- commonly known as blue-green algae -- from wastewater to produce biofuels.

Jamsa examined various types of wastewater to determine the most suitable for cultivation of the types of algae which are best at producing bio fuel -- as well as clean up the wastewater itself -- and found "municipal wastewater" the best candidate. According to Jamsa, the algae are removed from wastewater systems then the algae's fat is separated and extracted then converted to fuel.

The researcher noted the best results for biodiesel production were found in green algae. "The blue-green algae are not as effective as green algae because the carbohydrates in the blue-green algae are more easily converted into bio-ethanol, while the fats in green algae are more readily converted to biodiesel," he explained. (Source: University of Turku, Svenska Yle, May, 2019) Contact: University of Turku, +358 29 450 5000, www.utu.fi/en

More Low-Carbon Energy News Algae,  Biofuel,  Biodiesel,  

Palm Oil
Date: 2019-05-27
In Kuala Lumpur, the Malaysian Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI) in a statement reported that his country, the world's largest exporter and second largest producer of the palm oil, will continue to play a key role in ensuring palm oil remains a sustainable and eco-friendly fuel replacement for domestic use and worldwide export.

The minister noted that while there had been opposition to the current practices of planting oil palm, the market is strong and "Malaysia is equipped with the necessary infrastructure and market size to improve the quality and production of palm-based energy products." He also noted agencies such as the Malaysia Palm Oil Board, Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute and SIRIM Bhd had the technological capabilities necessary to make make palm oil biodiesel a "leading biofuel contender."

Malaysia introduced B10 biodiesel to the domestic transportation market in December 2018, increasing its blend from seven per cent (B7 Biodiesel) to 10 per cent. The government plans to introduce B20 biodiesel by 2020. (Source: Malaysian Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI), Malay Mail, 24 May., 2019)Contact: Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Darell Leiking, www.miti.gov.my

More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm Oil,  Biodiesel,  

CSIR-IIP
Date: 2019-05-26
On 24 May, the formidable workhorse of Indian Air Force (IAF), the Russian made AN-32 aircraft was formally fleet certified to fly on blended aviation fuel containing up to 10% of indigenous bio-jet fuel. The approval certificate was received at the aero-engine test facilities at Chandigarh by Air Commodore Sanjiv Ghuratia VSM, Air Officer Commanding, 3 BRD, AF on behalf of the IAF from Mr P Jayapal, Chief Executive CEMILAC. The IAF has undertaken a series of evaluation tests and trials with this green aviation fuel for the last one year. The scope of these checks was in consonance with the international aviation standards. Today’s approval is an acknowledgement of the meticulous testing using the indigenous bio-jet fuel by the IAF. The indigenous bio-jet fuel was first produced by the CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP) lab at Dehradun in 2013, Last December, Aircraft & System Testing Establishment (ASTE) a unit of the Indian Air Force (IAF) that evaluates aircraft and systems for induction into IAF, flew India’s first military flight using blended bio-jet fuel on the An-32 transport aircraft. The bio-jet blended ATF (aviation turbine fuel) is made from Jatropha oil produced from seeds of Jatropha plant, which is sourced from the Chhattisgarh biodiesel development authority(CBDA) and then processed at CSIR-IIP, Dehradun. (Source: IndianWeb2, Indian Institute of Petroleum, 26 May, 2019) Contact: IW2, www.indianweb2,com; CSIR-IIP, Indian Institute of Petroleum (CSIR-IIP), www.csir.res.in/indian-institute-petroleum-dehradun

NBB,National Biodiesel Board
Date: 2019-05-24
Thirteen trade groups representing farmers, rural lenders, crop and biobased oil producers, and biodiesel producers today wrote leaders of the House of Representatives and Senate, asking them to act on bipartisan legislation to extend the biodiesel tax incentive:

"America's farmers and rural communities are facing a mounting economic threat. With your leadership, Congress can help mitigate the crisis by taking immediate action on a policy that enjoys bipartisan, bicameral support. We are writing today to ask you to renew and extend the biodiesel tax incentive at the earliest opportunity.

"Income for America's farmers is falling, and the impact is beginning to be felt in other sectors of the rural economy. Biodiesel production adds value to oil seed crops and recycled oils, providing one bright spot for the agriculture sector. Congress can take rapid action to renew the biodiesel tax incentive -- a policy that enjoys broad bipartisan support -- to help U.S. biodiesel producers continue growing."

The letters group include the Agricultural Retailers Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, CoBank, Corn Refiners Association, Farm Credit Council, National Biodiesel Board, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Farmers Union, National Oilseed Processors Association, National Renderers Association, National Sorghum Producers, and U.S. Canola Association.

A copy of the letter is available for download HERE. (Source: National Biodiesel Board , KTIC, 22 May, 2019) Contact: National Biodiesel Board, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, (800) 841-5849, www.biodiesel.org

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

Aemetis
Date: 2019-05-22
Aemetis Universal Biofuels India, a subsidiary of Cupertino, California-headquartered advanced renewable fuel and biochemical specialist Aemetis Inc. , reports it will supply 25 million or more US gpy of distilled biodiesel to an unnamed multi-site mining company with sites in southern and central India .

Shipments have already started, and there are plans to expand the deal to additional mines as it installs on-site storage for biodiesel.

Aemetis owns and operates a 60-million gpy ethanol production facility in California's Central Valley. It also has a 50-million-gpy renewable chemical and advanced fuel production facility on the east coast of India for production of high-quality distilled biodiesel and refined glycerin for US, European and Indian customers. (Source: Aemetis, Mining Magazine, May, 2019) Contact: Aemetis, Eric McAfee, CEO , Todd Waltz, (408) 213-0940, investors@aemetis.com, emcafee@aemetis.com, www.aemetis.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis,  Biodiesel,  

Biodiesel
Date: 2019-05-20
In the Aloha State, the Maui County Council reports its approval of a 6-cent tax on biodiesel blends. The new biodiesel rate was part of slate of fuel taxes that the council approved Friday for fiscal year 2020, which starts July 1.

For gasoline and diesel oil, rates will remain the same at 23 cents per gallon, while ethanol, methanol and liquefied petroleum gas will be pegged at 11.5 cents per gallon. The county is expected to net less than $45,000 per year from the biodiesel blends fuel tax. (Source: Maui County Council, Maui News, 18 May, 2019) Contact: Maui County Council, www.mauicounty.gov/66/Council

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel Biodiesel Blend,  

Aemetis
Date: 2019-05-20
Cupertino, California-headquartered biodiesel producer Aemetis Inc. is reporting its Universal Biofuels India subsidiary was awarded a large ongoing supply contract for distilled biodiesel by a multi-site mining company for use in dump trucks and other heavy diesel equipment at mines in southern and central India. Shipments have already begun to the mining customer under the supply agreement and will be expanded to additional mines as on-site biodiesel storage is installed.

Distilled biodiesel is a lower cost fuel than diesel, reduces particulate emissions by 90 percent and significantly reduces carbon emissions. (Source: Aemetis, PR, 20 May, 2019)Contact: Aemetis, Eric McAfee, CEO (408) 213-0940, emcafee@aemetis.com www.aemetis.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis,  Biodiesel,  

RFS, US EPA
Date: 2019-05-15
In Washington, the Trump administration EPA is reported to be proposing to increase volume of biofuels refiners must blend into their fuel annually from the present 19.92 billion gallons to 20.04 billion gallons in 2020. The proposed mandated increase is awaiting review by other government agencies before being finalized.

The mandate includes 15 billion gallons of conventional biofuels -- ethanol -- unchanged from 2019, and 5.04 billion gallons of advanced biofuels, up from 4.92 billion in 2019. The biodiesel mandate of 2.43 billion gallons for 2021, would be unchanged from 2020. (Source: US EPA, AgWEB, 14 May, 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel Blend,  RFS,  Renewable Fuel Standard ,  

US EIA
Date: 2019-05-10
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the share of total soybean oil consumed as a biodiesel feedstock doubled from the current 15 pct to 30 pct as the total U.S. soybean oil supply grew from about 22.5 billion pounds to nearly 26.0 billion pounds between marketing year 2010-2011 and 2017-2018.

Soybean oil is the most commonly used vegetable oil for biodiesel production, and inputs reached 7.1 billion pounds during the latest soybean oil marketing year which ran from Oct. 1, 2017, to Sept. 30, 2018. Between marketing year 2010-2011 and marketing year 2017-2018, U.S. domestic biodiesel production grew from 700 million gpy to 1.8 billion gpy. The production increase was largely driven by the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) biofuel blending mandate. (Source: US EIA, Xinhua, 8 May, 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News US EIA,  Soybean,  Soybean Oil,  BiodieselBiofuel,  

Biodiesel
Date: 2019-05-08
Xinhua is reporting more than 2,000 buses from Shanghai's major bus company are now being fueled with recycled cooking oil -- "gutter oil" biodiesel. The city produces more than 30,000 tpy of discarded gutter oil which can be refined to make about 600,000 tonnes of B5 biodiesel.

The bus fleet is expected to consume nearly 22,000 tonnes of B5 biodiesel this year. As of the end of April, B5 biodiesel was reportedly being sold at 247 filling stations in Shanghai. (Source: Xinhua, 7 May, 2019)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel,  B5,  Gutter Oil,  

Neste
Date: 2019-05-08
In the capital city of Tallinn, Estonian public broadcaster ERR and other media are reporting Helsinki-headquartered renewable diesel fuel producer Neste will begin offering its palm oil biodiesel to Estonian motorists in July, subject to Estonian Environment Ministry approval.

In other Neste news, the effectiveness of Neste MY Renewable Jet Fuel in reducing black carbon emissions has been recognized in a competition organized by the Climate Leadership Coalition, the Bioenergy Association of Finland, the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, the Finnish Environment Institute, and the Central Association of Chimney Sweeps. According to NASA, renewable fuel has the potential to cut particulate emissions by up to 70 pct from aircraft engines. (Source: Neste, Baltic News Network, May, 2019) Contact: Neste, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com; Bioenergy Association of Finland, www.bioenergia.fi/English

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Renewable Diesel,  Alternative Fuel,  Biodiesel,  

Biodiesel
Date: 2019-05-06
In Jakarta, the Indonesia Biofuels Producer Association (APROBI) reports many Indonesian economists and government officials believe that the transition to cleaner energy products is necessary to help bolster the country's export sector and that tighter restrictions on Indonesian biodiesel deliveries to the EU could significantly cut biodiesel exports to only 1 million or 1.2 million kiloliters (kl) this year.

In the face of EU palm oil environmental concerns, Indonesia has been working to make its palm oil-based fuel more environmentally-friendly after the EU and other countries called for a "cleaner" Indonesian biodiesel.

Indonesia's B20 biofuel-biodiesel blend rate is expected to be raised to B30. According to Agra-Net, Indonesia exported 52,356 tonnes of palm oil biodiesel in February, 2019 Domestic markets have also shown increased consumption of biofuel during the first quarter of 2019. Reuters notes Indonesians consumed 1.5 million kl in Q1, this year. (Source: APROBI Business Times, 3 May, 2019) Contact: APROBI, +62 2129380882, office@aprobi.co.id, www.aprobi.or.id

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

National Biodiesel Board
Date: 2019-05-03
The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) filed the following formal comments on the U.S. EPA's proposed Modifications to Fuel Regulations to Provide Flexibility for E15 -- Modifications to RFS RIN Market Regulations rules. NBB respectfully disagreed with EPA's proposal to modify RIN market regulations without first showing data-based evidence of problems within the RIN market.

"The proposed RIN market reforms are unnecessary, as EPA has yet to see data-based evidence of RIN market manipulation. Reforming a system that, while certainly not perfect, is working as intended with no evidence of manipulation has the potential to disrupt and even undermine the system that obligated parties use to demonstrate compliance with the RFS. We ask that the agency use this proposed rule as an opportunity to provide transparency to the small refinery exemption process and address the timing of granting these exemptions. Increasing transparency in the small refinery exemption process is what is actually needed to prevent manipulation in the RIN market.

"Right now, retroactive small refinery exemptions are having the most negative impact on RIN markets, destroying demand for more than 360 million gallons of biodiesel and renewable diesel. Rather than unneeded reforms that could further disrupt the RIN market, EPA should increase transparency around the small refinery exemptions, end its practice of encouraging retroactive petitions, and ensure that annual volumes that it set are met,"Kurt Kovarik, VP federal affairs, added. (Source: NBB, 30 April, 2019) Contact: NBB, Donnell Rehagen, CEO, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, (800) 841-5849, www.biodiesel.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Biodiesel Board,  E15,  RINs ,