The 10 pct blend is compatible with existing vessel engines and requires no infrastructure modification. The drop-in fuel was blended, bunkered in Singapore and supplied by TotalEnergies Marine Fuels. (Source: Anglo American, Website PR, Mar., 2022) Contact: Anglo American, +44 0 1723 470 010, www.uk.angloamerican.com; TotalEnergies Marine Fuels, www. marinefuels.totalenergies.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Anglo America, Marine Biofuel, TotalEnergies Marine Fuel,
The two companies will jointly evaluate the performance of new low carbon footprint liquid fuels to be supplied by Repsol ̶ biofuels and synthetic fuels ̶ in engines manufactured by Navantia, both propulsion and generation. Repsol will contribute its research infrastructures from its Repsol Technology Lab. Key to the implementation of the project will be the pilot plants and blending laboratories, where Repsol will formulate the widest range of fuels and biofuel blends with a low carbon footprint, specifically for maritime transport.
The Navantia Engine Factory will provide the technical knowledge of the engines and will make its facilities in Cartagena available to the project, as well as test benches and diagnostic equipment.
.
Repsol and Navantia, through its CEDETH, will explore new areas of collaboration in hydrogen.
In addition, Repsol will build one of the world's largest synthetic fuels plants in Bilbao, together with Saudi Aramco. (Source: Repsol, PR, Mar., 2022)
Contact: Repsol, Josu Jon Imaz, CEO, +34 91 7538100, +34 91 7538000, www.repsol.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Repsol,
Low carbon fuels have already contributed to reduced emissions in the UK with the E10 Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (biofuels and petrol blending] that has reduced overall emissions equivalent to over 2,000,000 cars in 2019. The introduction of E10 is expected to reduce emissions equivalent to an additional 350,000 cars being taken off the road.
"There are challenges ahead, with no producer yet able to offer 100 pct SAF, while competition for limited sustainable feedstocks means there may need to be prioritization of waste and biomass use. We trust that the Strategy which follows this Call for Ideas will be able to address these issues and will create a policy framework that is truly technology-neutral, rewards investments that can reduce carbon across their lifetime, and can allow the UK to become a world leader in low carbon fuel production," UKPIA noted. (Source: UKPIA, Website PR, Feb., 2022) Contact: UKPIA, Dr Andrew Roberts, Dir., +44 (0) 2072 697 605, info@UKPIA.com, www.ukpia.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News B10, Biofuel Blend, UK Petroleum Industry Association, Low Carbon Fuel , SAF,
"The state of Iowa has long led the nation in ethanol policy," said Skor. "Through her legislation announced today, Gov. Reynolds continues this legacy by prioritizing expanded access to higher blends of biofuel choices at the pump. Statewide access to higher blends of biofuels means that all drivers across Iowa have the opportunity to choose fuel that is good for their engine, good for their pocketbook, and one that benefits the community around them.
"The 2022 Biofuel Access Bill also allows Iowans to make a simple change for the environment by choosing E15. In fact, research shows that statewide E15 in Iowa could cut climate emissions by 180,000 metric tons, the equivalent of removing almost 40,000 vehicles off the road across the state." (Source: Growth Energy, Website PR,24 Jan., 2022) Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, CEO, www.growthenergy.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Growth Energy, Biofuels, Biofuel Blends,
Indonesia, the world's largest palm oil producer, mandated that biodiesel sold in the country be blended with 30 pct of palm-based biodiesel to cut its energy imports and increase consumption of palm oil, as previously reported. The Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) expects the implementation of a B40 mandate to be delayed until 2023, at the earliest. (Source: Indonesian Energy Ministry, Indonesian Palm Oil Association, Jan., 2022) Contact: Indonesian Palm Oil Association, +62 21 57943871, www.gapki.id
More Low-Carbon Energy News Indonesia Biofuel Blend, Indonesian Palm Oil AssociationPalm Oil, Biodiesel,
Download Michigan E15 details HERE . (Source: POET, Website PR, 14 Jan., 2022) Contact: POET, Joshua Shields, Senior V.P. Gov. Affairs and Communications, (605) 965-2200, www.poet.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News POET, Biofuel Blend, Ethanol,
Indonesian biodiesel consumption is projected to increase by 10 billion liters in 2022, according to the Reuters release.
Indonesia collects levies to help finance its palm oil programmes, including biodiesel subsidies and smallholder replanting programmes.
It increased its crude palm oil levies to record highs this year, and is estimated to collect as much $4.95 billion in levies this year. (Source: Reuters, 1 Dec., 2021)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Indonesia Biofuel Blend, Palm Oil, Biodiesel,
The first test was conducted using a CN 235-220 plane that flew 10,000 feet above West Java, according to several press statements. Earlier in the week on Monday, the consortium completed an aircraft ground test the found that "the engine's response was normal, with no discernible loss of power."
(Source: Jakarta Post, 12 Sept., 2021)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Palm OIl , SAF, Aviation Biofuel,
Under the RFS, U.S. oil refiners are required to blend billions of gallons of biofuels into the nation's fuel mix, or purchase tradeable credits (RINs) from those that do.
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.
(Source: Reuters, 26 Aug., 2021)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuels Standard, Biofuel Blend,
The upgrading to E10 is inline with a renewed push towards lowering carbon emissions through the massive transportation decarbonization plan (TDP) aimed at phasing out polluting vehicles. The plan also bans the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles starting in 2030, followed by a ban on hybrids in 2035 and petrol and diesel heavy trucks in 2040.
According to the London-headquartered UK Petroleum Industry Association (UKPIA) "The average UK biofuel CO2 emissions savings in 2019 were over 80 pct under the Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation meaning that increasing the renewable fuel content of petrol will reduce overall CO2 emissions. It is also worth noting that renewable fuels added to UK petrol and diesel must meet the government's sustainability criteria." (Source: UK Petroleum Industry Association, The Express, Aug., 2021) Contact: UK Petroleum Industry Association, +44 20 7269 7600, www.ukpia.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News E10, UK Department for Transport,
Union Pacific noted the updated fuel blend rate follows comprehensive testing of high-horsepower locomotives and monitoring their fuel consumption, as well as the biofuel blend's impact on engine oil and fuel filters and the environment. (Source: Union Pacific, 21 Aug., 2021)
Contact: Union Pacific, Beth Whited Executive VP Environment, 402-544-5000, www.up.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Union Pacific, Biodiesel, Biodiesel Blend,
According to Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor, "It's time for leaders in Washington to make good on their commitments to clean, renewable energy and put a stop to Big Oil's efforts to restore its monopoly over the US fuel mix. The evidence is clear. Congress and the administration cannot decarbonise transportation without a growing role for low-carbon biofuels, which are vital to our climate, working families, and the economy.
The last thing we can afford are more handouts to the oil industry. Policymakers must act swiftly to ensure uninterrupted, year-round access to E15 and set ambitious biofuel blending levels, including a statutory minimum of 15 billion gallons of conventional biofuel, under annual targets."
(Source: Growth Energy, Website PR, 22 July, 2021) Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels,
The 7 pct biofuel blend reduces CO2 emissions by roughly 5 pct and is compliant with the International Standard Organisation's requirement for marine fuels and requires no substantial engine modifications, the release noted.
According to Anglo American CEO Peter Whitcutt, "The success of this trial marks an important step forward in establishing biofuel as a viable option, aligned with circular economic principles. These efforts also reinforce our commitment as an organisation to reduce emissions across the entire value chain, as we work towards carbon neutrality across our operations by 2040." (Source: Anglo American, Website PR, 28 June, 2021)
Contact: Anglo American, Peter Whitcutt, CEO , www.angloamerican.com; Alpha Biofuels, +65 6264 6696, www.alphabiofuels.sg; Toyota Tsusho Petroleum, www.toyota-tsusho-petroleum.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Toyota Tsusho, Alpha Biofuels. Biodiesel,
Sweden's biofuel blend rate will increase to 7.8 pct in 2022. Preen plans to produce approximately 5 million cubic meters of renewable fuels by 2030, (Source: Preem, PR, Website, 22 June, 2021) Contact: Preem, +46 (0)70-450 10 01, www.preem.se
More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Diesel, Preem,
Effective January 1, 2023, gasoline and diesel fuels distributed in the province are to have low-carbon content of 15 pct and 10 pct respectively by 2030, with progressively higher inclusion rates between 2023 and 2030. Diesel pool content in 2023 will be 3 pct and gasoline pool content 10 pct in 2023. In both pools, the low-carbon content volume requirements will be adjusted by a carbon intensity factor. Volume bonuses will be awarded if the average carbon intensity of low carbon fuels in the year is greater than 45 pct below the gasoline carbon intensity, or 70 pct below the diesel carbon intensity; in 2028, the bonus will apply after 50 pct and 75 pct, respectively. Consultation on the draft regulation closes June 26, 2021.
The regulation respecting the integration of low-carbon-intensity fuel content into gasoline and diesel fuel is expected to result in 2.5 MT of GHG reductions per year by 2030, and contribute to the provincial goal of reduced reliance on fossil fuel imports. With Quebec's regulation, over 90 pct of Canadian fuel consumption will be subject to a provincial low-carbon or renewable fuel standard, with biofuels supplying most of the compliance pursuant to these standards.
ABFC is the national voice for producers, distributors, and technology developers of advanced biofuels. ABFC promotes the production and use of low carbon advanced biofuels in Canada, which our members supply across North America and globally. These companies have invested in processing and supply chain operations in Quebec and are actively bringing to market the next generation of low carbon biofuels. Since 2005, ABFC has provided provincial and federal leadership on sound biofuels policies to expand clean energy options, achieve measurable climate action results, and stimulate new investments and clean growth. (Source: Advanced Biofuels Canada, PR, 13 May, 2021) Contact: Advanced Biofuels Canada, Ian Thompson, Pres., (604) 947-0040, ithomson@advancedbiofuels.ca, www.advancedbiofuels.caABFC, Ian Thomson, www.advancedbiofuels.ca
More Low-Carbon Energy News Advanced Biofuels Canada, Biofuel Blend, Low-Carbon Fuel,
Through a series of targeted digital content, advertising, and digital media, the "Get Biofuel" campaign aligns the benefits of biofuel to an empowerment message titled "Fuel Beyond". "Our industry's passion for showcasing the benefits of biofuels is unparalleled, and I'm thrilled to unveil this new initiative that will help raise awareness with consumers -- reminding them that by choosing a cleaner fuel they are fueling beyond their gas tank and also becoming a part of the climate change solution. With biofuel, you fuel much more than just your car. You also fuel cleaner air and help the planet," said Growrh Energy CEO Emily Skor.
Download Growth Energy "Fuel Beyond" details HERE. (Source: Growth Energy, PR, 7 May, 2021)
Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Growth Energy, Biofuel,
Similarly, recent data from the Minnesota Department of Commerce showed 2020 E15 sales there nearly held steady with 2019 sales levels, despite the pandemic. Minnesota E15 sales were 93.46 million gallons, down 4 pct from 97.40 million gallons in 2019.
On the west coast, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) noted 40.37 million gallons of E85 were sold in the Golden State in 2020, down 0.6 pct from the 40.6 million gallons sold in 2019.
(Source: Iowa Department of Revenue Renewable Fuels Association, CARB, Biofuels News, 8 Apr., 2021) Contact: Renewable Fuels Association, www.ethanolrfa.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News RFA, FlexFuel, E15, E85, Biofuel Blend,
The HBRF study covers renewable fuels including biodiesel, hydrotreated vegetable oil and biomethane and identifies the opportunities and barriers to adoption and the GHG-saving opportunities available for sustainable, renewable fuel adoption by heavy duty vehicles.
The study notes that with a market average of 30 pct HBRF used in place of diesel and natural gas by 2030, the sector could save an additional 46 million tonnes in GHG emissions over the next decade.
The Zemo Partnership Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme is an initiative designed and managed by Zemo Partnership that aims to give fleet operators independent assurance of purchasing sustainable, low carbon fuels approved under the RTFO, and customer supply chain specific GHG emission performance data. The scheme is open to all UK suppliers of renewable fuels including those that supply blends of renewable fuels. Companies are required to apply to Zemo Partnership to become an approved Renewable Fuel Supplier and demonstrate compliance with the scheme performance criteria and undergo an annual compliance check. This entails independent verification of company procedures, processes and renewable fuel production data by an auditor, according to the Zemo website.
Once approved renewable fuel supplier will be able to issue their customers with 'Renewable Fuel Declarations' every three months for batches of sustainable low carbon fuels sold. The declaration will identify the carbon intensity and GHG emissions savings specific to the renewable fuel supply chain as well as information on feedstocks, the Zemo website notes.
(Source: Zemo Partnership, PR, Website, 8 Mar., 2021)
Contact: Zemo Partnership, Gloria Esposito, Sustainability Head, +44 (0)20 7304 6880,
hello@zemo.org.uk, www.zemo.org.uk
More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuel, E10, Biofuel Blend,
According to the release, the biofuels standard establishes a minimum level of biodiesel to be blended in the state's diesel fuel pool, gradually increasing over time. Beginning in 2022, the legislation ensures that biodiesel comprises 11 pct of the diesel pool and provides tax credits for higher blends. The program expands to 20 pct biodiesel blends (B20) in future years.
The legislation also establishes new retail income tax incentives for fuel marketers and provides funding for biodiesel projects through the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program. Financial support for renewable fuels would also be made available from the Rebuild Iowa Infrastructure Fund.
(Source: Ag Processing Inc., PR, 23 Feb., 2021) Contact: Ag Processing Inc., Troy Alberts, VP Refined Oils and Renewable Fuels, 402-496-7809, www.agp.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ag Processing, Biofuel Blend,
For biodiesel, the bill would require most diesel sold in the state to be B11 blend during warmer months, beginning in 2022. The requirement would ramp up to B20 during warmer months in 2024 and later.
For ethanol, the bill would make E15 the standard fuel option by 2025. It would also update the E15 promotion tax credit to 3 cents per gallon year-round. Growth Energy estimates that over the first five years, the legislation would increase ethanol demand by more than 117 million gallons. (Source: Office of Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Website PR, Feb., 2021) Contact: Office of Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, (515) 281-5211, www.governor.iowa.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel Blend, Iowa Biofuel Blend,
According to POET Founder and CEO Jeff Broin, "Iowa has always been a major champion for biofuels, and we applaud Governor Reynolds for taking that forward-thinking leadership to the next level with E15. Passing legislation for an E15 standard could lay the foundation for the entire nation. E15 in Iowa would add nearly 30 million bushels of grain demand each year, grow thousands of jobs across the state and inject millions into Iowa’s economy," Broin continued.
"It would boost farm incomes across the Midwest, grow dependable domestic markets, and be a critical step in securing America's energy independence. Make no mistake -- we need to return to our roots and once again get our energy from the surface of the Earth, and America's farmers will play a pivotal role in the climate solution. Federal and state leaders looking to take action on climate and clean air should start with plant-based biofuels like bioethanol, which is 46 pct cleaner than gasoline from farm to freeway and displaces toxic chemicals in gasoline linked to cancer and other serious health problems," Broin concluded. (Source: POET, PR, 8 Feb., 2021)Contact: POET, Jeff Broin, CEO, (605) 965-2200, www.poet.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News POET, Biofuel, Ethanol, E15, Ethanol Blend ,
"Based on empirical evidence from SREs improperly granted in other compliance years, the new 2018-2019 SREs will likely have a sudden, negative impact on both ethanol sales volumes and prices. This would be devastating to America's ethanol producers, many of which are already on the brink of closure due to the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This action by EPA is completely without legal merit," RFA Pres. and CEO Geoff Cooper Noted:
"This midnight-hour attempt by the Trump administration to damage the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and sabotage the ethanol industry's recovery from the COVID pandemic simply cannot be allowed to prevail. With just hours remaining in his shameful term as EPA administrator, Wheeler couldn't stop himself from doling out a few more Clean Air Act compliance exemptions to his well-connected friends. But the fact remains that this action by EPA is completely without legal merit. It flouts both the statute and recent court decisions that clearly limit EPA's authority and ability to grant these exemptions. And while this action comes as one last sucker punch from the Trump administration, we are confident it will be a hollow victory for the politically connected oil companies receiving today's waivers, as the new Biden administration will most certainly act quickly to restore the volumes erased by these waivers," RFA president and CEO Geoff Cooper said.
"Farm families and biofuel workers across the country have worked tirelessly to make a living over the past few months despite a global pandemic. And yet, the Trump administration's SRE abuse has piled on to the uncertainty and difficulty that rural Americans are facing every day," according to Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor.
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.
(Source: RFA, Growth Energy, AgriNews, 30January, 2021)
Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org; RFA, Geoff Cooper, Pres., CEO, (202) 289-3835, www.ethanolrfa.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ethanol, Biofuel, Biofuel Blend, RFA, Growth Energy, RFS, "Hardship" Waivers, ,
The agency proposed a new 2019 compliance deadline of 30 November 2021, with a 1 June 2022 deadline for refineries processing less than 75,000 b/d of crude a year. The 2020 mandates would have deadlines of 31 January 2022 and 1 June 2022 for small refineries, under the proposal. Deadlines to prove compliance for the 2019 mandates were last March, and for the 2020 compliance year March of this year.
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.
(Source: EPA, PR, 14 Jan., 2021)
More Low-Carbon Energy News EPA, Renewable Fuel Standard, , Hardship Waiver, Biofuel Blending,
Effective Jan. 1, 2021, the province will require 9.25 pct ethanol content in gasoline, up from the current 8.5 pct, increasing to 10 pct (E10) on Jan. 1, 2022. The biodiesel requirement will increase from the present 2 pct to 3.5 pct on Jan. 1, 2021, then increasing to 5 pct as of Jan. 1, 2022. (Source: Gov. of Manitoba, PR, 22 Dec., 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel Blend, Manitoba Biofuel,
The first round of HBIIP grants was announced in May 2020 to expand the sale and use of ethanol and biodiesel fuels and share the costs related to and/or offering sales incentives for the installation of fueling equipment.
(Source: USDA, PR, 18 Dec., 2020) Contact: USDA Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program,www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip
Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Programme
More Low-Carbon Energy News USDA, HBIIP,
"Unfortunately, changes that were made to CAFE credits, which are Corporate Average Fuel Economy credits that the automakers received for years to make flex fuel vehicles, was changed during the Obama Administration to be phased out for flex fuel vehicles. They really aimed at incentivizing electric vehicles.
"We knew this was coming ... We have seen it in the last few model years, but we are really down to just 11 models of flex fuel vehicles coming from just Ford and General Motors. That's a strong dive from where we once were at 80 different models across eight manufacturers.
"We're sure doing all we can to reverse that trend. There were some recent comments to the federal government on how to incentivize the return of those vehicles. I also think there is just genuine consumer interest. The automakers are no doubt hearing from more people. We have record people converting their vehicles to make them flex fuel now than we have ever seen. It's an astonishing new market."
According to the RDA, only 11 flex fuel models will be on the market in 2021 with five of those models available only to fleet purchasers. (Source: RFA, Iowa Agribusiness Radio, 9 Dec., 2020) Contact: Renewable Fuels Association, Robert White, (202) 289-3835, www.ethanolrfa.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel Blend, Renewable Fuels Association, Flex Fuel, Biofuel,
EPA administrator Andrew Wheeler stated that the agency would not act on waiver requests for compliance years since 2019 until ongoing court challenges to prior decisions are settled.
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.
On Sept 18 we reported Trump had suggested he'd provide $300 million to oil refiners and that those funds would come out of the USDA Commodity Credit Corp. (CCC) which is intended to provide farmers with Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments. Trump later denied suggesting cash payments to refineries whose waiver applications had been rejected. (Source: EPA, Various Media, 19 Nov., 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News EPA, Renewable Fuel Standard, , Hardship Waiver, Biofuel Blending,
The grant was awarded through the USDA Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP), which offers $22 million in grants with the expectation to increase national ethanol demand by roughly 150 million gpy. (Source: Cerea Solutions, NewsBug, 16 Nov., 2020) Contact: Ceres Solutions, Jeff Troika, Pres., CEO, www.ceres.coop;
USDA Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, www.rd.usda.gov/hbiip
More Low-Carbon Energy News HBIIP, E15, E85, Biofuel Blend,
In her comments, Skor argued that biofuels like ethanol play a critical role in achieving the USDA's goals and called for building on current investments to expand renewable fuels role in the nation's transportation infrastructure. "Supporting programs like the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and initiatives to expand access to higher biofuel blends like E15, E30, and E85 can build on biofuels' environmental progress and expand the market for American agriculture,", said Skor. "USDA's Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) is a prime example how the agency can support the productivity of our farmers, while decreasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and encouraging further adoption of sustainable farming practices across our agriculture sector."
Skor also notes the biofuels industry's continued advancements to capture CO2 and the plant-based fuel's ability to replace harmful toxics and improve air quality. "We have a better option in ethanol, the single most affordable and abundant alternative to petroleum-based fuel additives that threaten air quality in communities across the globe. To expand on these benefits, USDA should continue to promote programs that boost biofuels access and use throughout the country.
As the department works to streamline programs and seek opportunities to improve sustainable farming across the country, Skor encouraged USDA to continue exploring the strong link between U.S. agriculture and our biofuels industry, and promote the increased use of biofuels so our nation's farmers can continue to rely on these markets as we work to reduce the environmental impact of the agriculture sector.
The organizations have asked the United States District Court for the District of Columbia to order the following: EPA should not withhold the name of the company submitting an application for an SRE nor the name and location of the refinery for which relief is requested; EPA should immediately produce the information that was unlawfully withheld for Renewable Fuel Standard compliance years 2015, 2016, and 2017, and; EPA should not withhold any of the five data elements identified in the proposed Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support (REGS) rule (Source: Growth Energy, Website PR , 28 Oct., 2020)
Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Growth Energy, USDA, RFS, Biofuel,
In her comments, Skor argued that biofuels play a critical role in achieving the department's goals and called for building on current investments to expand renewables fuels' role in the nation's transportation infrastructure.
"Supporting programs like the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and initiatives to expand access to higher biofuel blends can build on biofuels' environmental progress and expand the market for American agriculture. USDA's Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) is a prime example of how the agency can support the productivity of our farmers while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and encouraging further adoption of sustainable farming practices across our agriculture sector," Skor noted.
Growth Energy is the world's largest association of biofuel producers representing 89 U.S. plants that produce more than 7.5 billion gpy of renewable fuel, 96 businesses associated with the production process, and tens of thousands of biofuel supporters across the country, according to its website.
Download Skorr's full comments HERE. (Source: Growth Energy, Website PR, 28 Oct., 2020)
Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, CEO, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Growth Energy, Biofuel, USDA, RFS, Biofuel Blends, HBIIP,
HBIIP helps fuel and biodiesel distribution centers convert to higher ethanol and biodiesel blends through equipment and infrastructure improvements cost sharing. Gas stations, fleet facilities, fuel terminal operations and other industry players are eligible to apply for HBIIP grant funds.
Download Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program details HERE. (Source: USDA, Oct., 2020) Contact: USDA, www.rd.usda.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel Blend, Ethanol, USDA, Biofiesel,
IrBEA notes that despite Ireland's natural climate and fertile soil advantage in producing bioenergy, out of 28 member European Union states Ireland is 27th in terms of its use of renewable heat and derives only 4 pct of its energy from Bioenergy. IrBEA also calls for:
These funds were made available through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) to recipients in 14 states. The initial $22 million in HBIIP investments are projected to increase ethanol demand by nearly 150 million gpy.
HBIIP helps transportation fueling and biodiesel distribution facilities convert to higher ethanol and biodiesel blends by sharing the costs related to the installation of fuel pumps, related equipment and infrastructure. Eligible applicants are vehicle fueling facilities, including, but not limited to, local fueling stations/locations, convenience stores, hypermarket fueling stations, fleet facilities, fuel terminal operations, midstream partners and/or distribution facilities. Higher biofuel blends are fuels containing ethanol greater than 10 pct by volume and/or fuels containing biodiesel blends greater than 5 pct by volume.
Download HBIIP program details HERE.
(Source: USDA, 8 Oct., 2020) Contact: USDA Rural Dev., www.rd.usda.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News USDA news, Ethanol Blend news, Biofuel Blend news,
MSC is pioneering the large-scale usage of biofuel blends of up to 30 pct for bunkering container ships on a routine basis in Rotterdam. The company is also looking at fossilfuel sourced LNG as a potential bridging fuel as part of the industry's transition towards a zero-carbon future.
MSC also notes that industry partnerships could help accelerate the development of clean hydrogen and other other fuels.
(Source: Mediterranean Shipping Company, Seatrade Maritime News, 6 Oct., 2020) Contact: Mediterranean Shipping Company, Bud Darr,Exec. VP, 514 844 3711 -- Montreal Office, www.msc.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Hydrogen, Biofuel, Maritime Biofuel,
"This growth has occurred during one of the most challenging fuel markets in the past 30 years, and is a testament to the strength of E15's growing popularity among American drivers" the Growth Energy release noted.
Growth Energy has developed the best practices for marketing and selling E15 based on consumer reaction at retail. Also, Growth Energy has been intimately involved in converting more than 2,000 retail sites to sell E15, which provides the organization with vast knowledge and experience in equipment compatibility, and regulatory requirements for offering higher biofuel blends, according to a release. (Source: Growth Energy, 30 Sept., 2020) Contact: Growth Energy, Mike O'Brian, VP Market Dev., (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News E15, Growth Energy, Ethanol, Ethanol Blend,
As part of Sweden's target to be fossil-free by 2040, the Swedish Government on September 11 announced its intention to introduce a greenhouse gas reduction mandate for aviation fuel. The mandated reduction level is expected to be 0.8 pct in 2021 increasing to 27 pct by 2030, with most of the savings expected to come from the use of SAF.
As previously reported, Norway announced it would introduce a 0.5 pct biofuel blending mandate leading to a 30 pct share of biofuels in the aviation sector by 2030.
GEVO notes its SAF product is approved for use in commerce and has already been used to power numerous commercial flights. The company says it "looks forward to increasing its SAF production to help countries like Sweden and Norway in the battle to reduce Greenhouse gas emissions." (Source: GEVO, Website PR, 21 Sept., 2020)Contact: GEVO Inc., Patrick Gruber, CEO, 303-858-8358, pgruber@gevo.com, www.gevo.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News GEVO, Aviation Biofuel, SAF,
"We need front-runners to lead the way in sustainable aviation. The ambitious target now set by the Swedish government is an example others should follow in order to support the aviation industry in meeting its emission reduction targets. It also creates the necessary certainty for sustainable aviation fuel producers to invest in increasing the production", says Neste VP for Renewable Aviation Europe, Jonathan Wood.
Earlier this year, Norway introduced a 0.5 pct biofuel blending mandate. There will be enough capacity on the market to supply the anticipated volumes of sustainable aviation fuel to Sweden and Norway. Neste is already producing commercial scale volumes of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™, refined from renewable waste and residue raw materials. In its neat form and over the lifecycle, the fuel can reduce up to 80 pct of greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil jet fuel, according to Neste.
Neste's sustainable aviation fuel capacity is currently 100,000 tpy. With Neste's Singapore refinery expansion on the way and possible additional investment in the Neste Rotterdam refinery, Neste will have the capacity to produce some 1.5 million tpy of sustainable aviation fuel by 2023.
The global aviation industry has set ambitious targets to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from air transport, including carbon-neutral growth from 2020 and beyond, and a 50 pct reduction of net aviation carbon emissions by 2050. Aviation needs multiple solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Currently, sustainable aviation fuels offer the only viable alternative to fossil fuels for powering aircrafts, according to the Neste release. (Source: Neste Corporation, Press Release, Website PR, 17 September 2020)
Contact: Neste, +358 50 458 5076, media@neste.com, www.neste.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste Oyi, SAF, Aviation Biofuel,
Peterson is calling for transparency to be achieved before the 2021 oil refinery renewable volume obligations are released by the EPA.
(Source: Office of Minnesota Congressman Collin Peterson, WNAX, Sept., 2020)
Contact: Office of Minnesota Congressman Collin Peterson, (507) 637-2270, collinpeterson.house.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS, Refinery Waivers, Biofuel Blend,
In a blatant move to win support and placate the biofuels and refinery interests, Trump has suggested he'd provide $300 million to oil refiners and that those funds would come out of the USDA Commodity Credit Corp. (CCC) which is intended to provide farmers with Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments.
Commenting on Trump's possible cash payments to refiners scheme, former Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said he "strongly expects that no action will be taken on the remaining waivers until after the election." Vilsack was critical of the reports that the President indicated that he would offer $300 million through the CCC fund in lieu of the waiver approvals, as the CCC is designed specifically to be used by USDA for the purpose of helping farmers.
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. (Source: EPA, Feedstuffs, 17 Sept., 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Trump, RFS, Refinery Waivers, Biofuel Blend, Tom Vilsack ,
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.
Interestingly, it is being widely reported that Trump is suggesting cash payments to refineries that have had waiver applications rejected, thus placating the biofuels and oil industries in a thinly-veiled move to win re-election in Nov. (Source: Various Media, OilPrice, 14 Sept., 2020)
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The president's could be seen as an effort to shore up his support in the Corn Belt states.
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.Under the U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard, the nation's oil refineries are required to blend billions of gallons of biofuels such as ethanol into the fuel or buy credits from those that do. But the EPA can waive their obligations if they prove compliance would cause them financial distress. (Source: Chronicle Herald, 10 Sept., 2020)
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The move would require refiners to blend cleaner ethanol and other renewable fuels with gasoline and fossil fuels under a Clean Fuel Standard aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30 million tonnes by 2030. The requirement would come into force in 2022, according to the Reuters report. Presently, Canada imports about 40 pct of the ethanol it uses. (Source: Canada Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Reuters, 11 Sept., 2020) Contact: Canada Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Hon.Jonathan Wilkinson, 613-995-1225, Jonathan.Wilkinson@parl.gc.ca
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According to Growth Energy, "Higher ethanol blends can be immediately deployed in existing vehicles to achieve immediate greenhouse gas reductions, reduce harmful air toxics, and reduce consumer costs at the pump. In fact, biofuels like ethanol have generated more than 75 percent of LCFS credits. Additionally, even with room to further improve greenhouse gas lifecycle modeling, CARB recognizes the significant improvement in ethanol's carbon intensity. As has been researched by the University of California -- Riverside and the University of Illinois, the use of more ethanol and ethanol-blended fuel reduces air toxics such as carbon monoxide, benzene, and other harmful particulates.'
Download Growth Energy's full comments HERE. Source: Growth Energy,CStore Decisions, Aug., 2020) Contact: Growth Energy, Chris Bliley, Senior VP Regulatory Affairs, www.growthenergy.org
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The agency now lists seven pending requests each for 2011 and 2012, 11 each for 2013 and 2015, 12 in 2014, eight in 2016 and two in 2018, as well as 27 listed for 2019 and one for 2020. The agency granted 85 waivers for the period 2016 to 2018.
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.Under the U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard, the nation's oil refineries are required to blend billions of gallons of biofuels such as ethanol into the fuel or buy credits from those that do. But the EPA can waive their obligations if they prove compliance would cause them financial distress. (Source: EPA,DTN, 16 July, 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS, Hardship Waivers, Biofuel Blend,
Indonesia, which has one of the world's most ambitious biodiesel programmes, raised the bio-content in its biodiesel mandate from 20 pct to 30 pct (B30) in 2019, with the goal of gradually reaching 100 pct.
Indonesia is the world's largest palm oil producer. (Source: PT Pertamina, PR, Reuters, 8 July, 2020) Contact: Pertamina, pcc@pertamina.com, www.pertamina.com
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"This long-awaited move unlocked the door to future demand growth for ethanol and corn. It also meant consumers would have increased access to cleaner and more affordable fuel options at the pump.
"Just as expected, the marketplace responded quickly. In the year since the red-tape barrier was removed, E15 sales are up 50pct.
"But E15 growth would have been exponentially larger if not for your EPA continuing to excuse oil refiners from their legal obligations to blend renewable fuels. As we told you a year ago, EPA's refinery waivers have caused devastating demand losses for ethanol and corn, and they under mine the expansion of E15.
"Even after a federal court overturned some refinery waivers in January, your EPA continues to receive dozens of exemption requests from oil companies. EPA is now even considering giving retroactive waivers for years that pre-date your administration.
"This needs to stop. It is hurting farmers, costing consumers, and derailing progress on energy and environmental security.
"The economic pain in farm country caused by these refinery waivers was compounded this spring—first by the Saudi-Russia oil price war, and then by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of this 'perfect tsunami,' half of the ethanol industry was recently shut down, leading to layoffs across rural America. The ethanol industry and farmers are hurting like never before.
Mr. President, we need your help. We ask that you stand up for the Renewable Fuel Standard. Please direct your EPA to abide by the January court ruling and end the abuse of the refinery waiver loophole.
"You stood by us, farmers, and consumers when you directed EPA to allow year-round E15. Now, we humbly ask that you stand with us again and ensure ethanol demand is not eroded by illegal refinery waivers. Thank you,"
Geoff Cooper, Pres. & CEO Renewable Fuels Associationwww.EthanolRFA.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS news, Refinery Waivers news, Biofuel Blend news, RFA news,
"Demand for renewable diesel, as well as other lower carbon fuels, is growing and taking market share based on both consumer preferences and support from substantial federal and state government incentive programs," according to a statement from HollyFrontier CEO Mike Jennings.
(Source: HollyFrontier, PR, Bloomberg, 3 June, 2020)
Contact: HoolyFrontier, Craig Biery, Inv. Relations, 214-954-6510, www.hollyfrontier.com
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