Hawaiian Electric, HECO
Date: 2021-02-17
Driven by higher solar energy and wind production and lower consumer demand, Honolulu-headquartered Hawaiian Electric (HECO) achieved a 34.5 pct consolidated renewable portfolio standard (RPS) in 2020.

The 34.5 pct is the consolidated RPS for Oahu, Hawaii Island and Maui County, up from 28.4 pct in 2019. Hawaiian Electric exceeded the state requirement to reach 30 pct by 2020 and has more than tripled the amount of renewable energy on its electric grids in 10 years, up from just under 10 pct in 2010. Even if electricity use had been the same as in 2019, Hawaiian Electric would have still reached a renewable portfolio standard of 32 pct.

HECO's 2020 RPS highlights include:

Maui County reached 50.8 pct RPS, hitting the 50 pct mark for the first time. With a mix of solar, wind and biofuels, Maui County's RPS represents a nearly 25 pct increase from 40.8 pct RPS in 2019.

Oahu recorded a 30.5 pct RPS, exceeding 30 pct for the first time and up 5 percentage points from 25.2 pct in 2019.

Hawaii Island hit 43.4 pct, compared to 34.7 pct in 2019.

Total electricity generated by renewable energy resources increased 13 pct over 2019.

Some of the factors that drove the year-over-year increase include:

A full year of production from West Loch Solar and Clearway Energy grid-scale solar facilities;

Increased production from private rooftop solar, with nearly 6,000 new systems coming online in 2020. There are 87,848 systems and 3.7 million solar panels, including rooftop and grid-scale facilities, producing electricity on the five island grids;

Higher wind production and lower electricity use due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The next RPS milestone required by state law is to reach 40 pct by 2030. (Source: Hawaiian Electric, PR, 15 Feb., 2021) Contact: Hawaiian Electric, Scott Seu, Pres., CEO, Shannon Tangonan, 808.351.4978 shannon.putnam@hawaiianelectric.com, www.hawaiianelectric.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News HECO,  Hawaiian Electric ,  

POET
Date: 2021-02-12
In Souix Falls, South Dakota, POET applauded Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds' proposed legislation to speed the statewide adoption of higher biofuel blends and make E15 the standard fuel option by 2025.

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 ,  

Growth Energy
Date: 2021-02-12
In Washington, in testimony at the EPA virtual hearing on the proposal to extend the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) compliance deadlines for the 2019 and 2020 Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs), Growth Energy's Senior VP of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley called on the agency to reject calls to delay RFS compliance and instead take immediate steps to restore integrity to the RFS and restore lost biofuel demand.

"The intent of the RFS is to blend more biofuels into our nation's transportation fuel supply. Period. It is not meant to have oil companies use questionable legal tactics to avoid blending biofuels and then demanding that the agency further delay compliance," Bliley said.

Bliley also reminded EPA about the benefits of biofuels as America works toward its clean climate goals, stating that "With recent research showing that greenhouse gas emissions from corn ethanol are 46 pct lower than gasoline, it makes no sense why EPA should continue to exempt oil companies and further delay them from complying with their blending obligations."

EPA's proposal would extend the RFS compliance deadline for the 2019 compliance year to November 30, 2021 and extend the RFS compliance deadline for the 2020 compliance year to January 31, 2022. (Source: Growth Energy, PR, Website, 9 Feb., 2021) Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, CEO, Chris Bliley, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Growth Energy,  RFS,  

Clariant
Date: 2021-02-05
Muttez, Germany-based specialty chemicals producer Clariant AG is reporting a license agreement for its sunliquid cellulosic ethanol technology with Chinese green energy company Harbin Hulan Sino-Dan Jianye Bio-Energy, a subsidiary of the Sino-Dan Jianye Group.

Harbin Hulan Sino-Dan Jianye Bio-Energy will use Clatiant technology at a planned 25,000 tpy cellulosic ethanol from locally sourced corn stover plant in Heilongjiang Province, in Northeast China. (Source: Clariant, PR Feb., 2021) Contact: Clariant AG, Christian Librera, VP Biofuels and Derivatives, +41 61 469 63 73, Christian.librera@clariant.com, www.clariant.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Cellulosic Ethanol,  Clariant,  Sunliquid,  

Repsol
Date: 2021-02-01
Madrid-based integrated energy company Repsol SA is reporting production of the first 10,000 tonnes of aviation biofuel from biomass at its industrial complex in Tarragona, Spain. The company plans to produce additional aviation biofuel at the group's other industrial complexes in Spain.

Use of the fuel is projected to avoid 630 tonnes of CO2 -- equivalent of 55 flights between Madrid and Barcelona. Last August the company reported production of its first batch of biofuel at the Puertollano Industrial Complex.

According to Spain's Integrated National Plan for Energy and Climate, biofuels currently represent the most widely available and used renewable technology in transportation. In certain sectors, such as aviation, biojet fuel produced from biomass or waste is the only existing alternative to fossil fuels and is included in the list of sustainable fuels, according to the Plan. (Source: Repsol, PR 21 Jan., 2021) Contact: Repsol, Josu Jon Imaz, CEO, +34 91 7538100, +34 91 7538000, www.repsol.com

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

RFS Waivers
Date: 2021-02-01
On Jan 19, the Trump administration's Andrew Wheeler-led EPA approved three small refinery "hardship" waivers to reverse one denial from 2018 and granting two for the 2019 compliance year. The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) was quick to respond with a petition for review and an emergency motion to stay EPA's action.

"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,  ,  

Valero Energy, Darling Ingredients
Date: 2021-02-01
Valero Energy and Darling Ingredients are reporting their joint-venture, 470 million gpy Diamond Green Diesel (DGD) refinery in Port Arthur, Texas has received approval by both boards to move ahead with construction and is expected to come online in late 2023. (Source: Valero, Darling, PR, Biofuels Int'l, 29 Jan., 2021) Contact: Darling Ingredients, Melissa A. Gaither, VP IR, (972) 281-4478, mgaither@darlingii.com, www.darlingii.com; Diamond Green Diesel, www.diamondgreendiesel.com; Valero Renewable Fuels, Joe Gorder, Pres., (800) 324-8464, www.valero.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Valero Energy,  Darling Ingredients,  Diamond Green Diesel ,  

UPM
Date: 2021-01-29
Helsinki-headquartered UPM reports it is advancing its biofuels growth plans and has begun engineering work on 500,000 tpy renewable transportation and sustainable jet fuel in Kotka, Finland and Rotterdam, the Netherlands. UPM will now proceed with a detailed commercial and basic engineering study to define the business case, select the most innovative technology option and estimate the investment need.

The technology concept includes the use of green hydrogen in the production process.

"The planned biorefinery would scale up UPM's biofuels business to a new level. At the same time, it would further improve long term competitiveness and sustainability performance of UPM Biofuels by introducing several sustainable feedstocks and achieving uniquely high CO2 emission reduction compared to biofuels currently in the market," according to UPM, CTO Jyrki Ovaska. (Source: UPM-Kymmene Corp., PR, Website, 28 Jan., 2021) Contact: UPM, Jyrki Ovaska, CTO, +358 204 150 564, www.upm.com, www.upmbiofuels.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News UPM,  Biofuel,  

Green Plains
Date: 2021-01-29
In the Cornhusker State, Omaha-based biorefining specialist Green Plains Inc. reports its subsidiary, Green Plains Ord LLC, has entered into an asset purchase agreement with Green America Biofuels Ord LLC to sell its 65-million gpy ethanol plant located in Ord, Nebraska, for $64 million, plus working capital.

Green Plains Ord LLC has also entered into an asset purchase agreement with Green Plains Partners LP and its affiliates (partnership) to acquire the storage and transportation assets and the assignment of railcar leases associated with the Ord ethanol plant for $27 million. In addition, the storage and throughput services agreement will be amended to adjust the minimum volume commitment to 217.7 million gallons per quarter and to extend the maturity date by one year to June 30, 2029.

Both transactions are expected to close within the next 45 days, subject to customary closing conditions and ordinary and customary representations, warranties and indemnification obligations. (Source: Green Plains, PR, Website, 27 Jan., 2021) Contact: Green Plains Inc., Todd Becker, CEO, Phil Boggs, VP, 402.884.8700, phil.boggs@gpreinc.com, www.gpreinc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Plains,  Ethanol,  

Repsol
Date: 2021-01-29
Repsol is reporting the H24All project consortium has presented an application for European Green Deal funding to develop Europe's first 100 MW alkaline electrolyzer plant which will be connected to a Repsol industrial site. The technology will be demonstrated in real operation according to end-users' needs and market requirements for low-carbon hydrogen production and to boost the use of renewable hydrogen by reducing the cost to close to €3/kg H2.

The 15 member consortium of research centers, material suppliers, engineering firms specializing in electrolyzers, auto makers and others, aims to pave the way for a new and competitive hydrogen industry based on European know-how through innovation by developing, building, operating, and demonstrating the sustainability of a 100 MW high-pressure alkaline electrolyzer. Consortium partners are from Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Spain, and Turkey.

In other Repsol news, on 21 Jan. the company reported production of the first 10,000 tonnes of aviation biofuel from biomass at its industrial complex in Tarragona in Spain. Additional aviation biofuel production is planned at the group's other industrial complexes in Spain. Last August the company reported production of its first batch of biofuel at the Puertollano Industrial Complex.

According to Spain's Integrated National Plan for Energy and Climate, biofuels currently represent the most widely available and used renewable technology in transportation. In certain sectors, such as aviation, biojet fuel produced from biomass or waste is the only existing alternative to fossil fuels and is included in the list of sustainable fuels, according to the Plan. (Source: Repsol, PR 21, 27 Jan., 2021) Contact: Repsol, Josu Jon Imaz, CEO, +34 91 7538100, +34 91 7538000, www.repsol.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News European Green Deal ,  Repsol,  Hydrogen,  Biofuel,  Aviation Biofuel,  

Boeing
Date: 2021-01-25
The world's largest aerospace company, Boeing, reports it will begin delivery of commercial airplanes capable of flying on 100 pct sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2030.

Boeing flew the world's first 100 pct SAF fuels commercial flight in 2018. Currently, biofuels are mixed directly with conventional jet fuel up to a 50/50 blend, which is the maximum allowed under current fuel specifications, according to the release.

The Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) reports commercial flying currently accounts for about 2 pct of all carbon dioxide emissions and about 12 pct of transport emissions, 80 pct of which are emitted from flights of over 930 miles . (Source: Boeing, PR, yahoo, 23 Jan., 2021) Contact: Boeing, Bryan Scott, VP, bryan.scott@boeing.com, www.boeing.com; Air Transport Action Group, www.atag.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Air Transport Action Group,  Boeing,  SAF,  Aviation Biofuel,  

Thyssenkrupp
Date: 2021-01-20
Essen-based German steel producer Thyssenkrupp reports its subsidiary Uhde Chlorine Engineers was awarded an engineering contract for its first green hydrogen project and installation of an 88 MW water electrolysis plant in Varennes, Quebec, for Hydro-Quebec.

After a late 2023 startup, the plant would be "one of the world's first and biggest production facilities for green hydrogen" at 11,100 metric tpy.

Both the hydrogen and the oxygen, produced as a by-product in the electrolysis process, would be used in a biofuel plant to produce biofuels from residual waste for the transport sector, the release noted. (Source: Thyssenkrupp, PR, Website, Xinhua, 18 Jan., 2021) Contact: Thyssenkrupp, +49 201 844 0, Fax: +49 201 844 536000, info@thyssenkrupp.com, www.thyssenkrupp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Thyssenkrupp ,  Green Hydrogen,  Biofuel,  

Greenergy
Date: 2021-01-20
In the UK, London-based biodiesel producer Greenergy has announced an investment in advanced biofuels. Using a combination of existing technologies, the project will create low-carbon fuels from waste tyre feedstock.

The project, which is at the Front End Engineering Design stage, will used pyrolysis and hydrotreating technologies to convert 300 tpd of shredded waste tyres into renewable drop-in advanced biofuels that can be used in diesel and petrol and qualify as development fuels under the UK's Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation. The plant will also have the capability to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) when fully operational in 2025.

The conceptual design was developed in Canada by Green Tire Technology Ltd then implemented in the UK in partnership with Greenergy. The project will use ThyssenKrupp Industrial Solutions' advanced thermal treatment technology and Haldor Topsoe's HydroFlex™ renewable fuels technology. (Source: Greenergy, PR, ForeCourt, 18 Jan., 2021) Contact: Greenergy, +44 (0)20 7404 7700, mail@greenergy.com, www.greenergy.com; Haldor Topsoe, Kim Knudsen, Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer, +45 4527 2000, www.topsoe.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Greenergy,  Advanced Biofuel,  Haldor Topsoe,  Renewable Fuel,  

EPA, Renewable Fuel Standard
Date: 2021-01-18
In its just published draft rulemaking, the EPA proposed extending the deadline for refineries to prove compliance with federal renewable fuel standard (RFS) blending mandates in 2019.

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,  

RFS Waivers
Date: 2021-01-11
The US Supreme Court will review the ability of oil refineries to win exemptions from federal biofuel-blending quotas under Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) legislation.

Under the January 2020 ruling that the Supreme Court will now review, the EPA was found to have wrongly waived three refineries from the renewable fuel requirements. A three-judge panel of the 10th Circuit also said that refineries are only eligible for relief if they have received uninterrupted, continuous extensions of the exemptions -- an exclusion that means only a handful nationwide will qualify.

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: Various Trade Media, 8 Jan., 2021)

More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS Waiver,  Renewable Fuel Standard,  Hardship Waivers,  

Shell Canada,Enerkem,Forge Hydrocarbons
Date: 2021-01-08
Shell Canada reports it will invest $350 million in a biofuel plant that is slated to open in Varennes, Quebec in 2023.

The plant -- which has received funding from Suncor Energy Inc., natural gas company Proman, Hydro-Quebec and the Quebec and federal governments -- will use Montreal-headquartered biofuels producer Enerkem Inc technology to process contaminated wood, construction and demolition leftovers, plastics, municipal and solid waste into methanol and ethanol. The plant will use hydrogen produced from hydroelectricity as its gasification agent.

As previously reported, Shell Canada's other biofuels partnership in Sombra, Ont., will convert waste fats and oil into renewable diesel using technology developed by Alberta-based Forge Hydrocarbons Corp.

The Canadian federal government estimates the global biodiesel market will grow to $44-billion by 2025. (Source: Shell Canada, PR, Enerkem, Jan., 2020) Contact: Enerkem, Dominique Boies, CEO and CFO, 514-375-7800, communications@enerkem.com, www.enerkem.com; Forge Hydrocarbons, www.forgehc.com; Shell Canada, www.shell.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Forge Hydrocarbons,  Shell Canada,  Enerkem,  Biofuel,  Ethanol,  Waste-to-Fuel,  Biodiesel,  

Green Plains,Fluid Quip Technologies
Date: 2021-01-08
In the Cornhusker State, Omaha-based Green Plains Inc. reports acquisition of a majority interest in Cedar Rapids-based Fluid Quip Technologies in a joint transaction led by Ospraie Management LLC . Terms have not been disclosed.

The acquisition capitalizes on the core strengths of the partners to develop and implement proven, value-added agriculture, food and industrial biotechnology systems, and to expand installation of Ultra-High Protein production across Green Plains' facilities in parallel with offering these technologies to partnering biofuel facilities, according to the release.

Green Plains Inc. is a leading biorefining company focused on the development and utilization of fermentation, agricultural and biological technologies in the processing of annually renewable crops into sustainable value-added ingredients. This includes the production of cleaner low carbon biofuels, renewable feedstocks for advanced biofuels and high purity alcohols for use in cleaners and disinfectants.

Fluid Quip Technologies has commercialized multiple patented and patent-pending technologies to enhance the base corn-to-ethanol dry grind process, create new and novel alternative feed products, and supply the growing need for carbohydrate feed-stocks into the biochemical market. (Source: Green Plains Inc., PR, 5 Jan., 2020) Contact: Fluid Quip, 319-320-7709, www.fluidquiptechnologies.com; Green Plains Inc., Todd Becker, CEO, Phil Boggs, VP, 402.884.8700, phil.boggs@gpreinc.com, www.gpreinc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Green Plains,  Fluid Quip Technologies,  

Praj Industries
Date: 2021-01-04
Indian bioenergy-biofuels specialist Praj Industries reports receipt of an order from the New Delhi-headquartered Indian Oil Corporation for a net-zero liquid discharge system -- waste water treatment package at Indian Oil's Dumad facility in Gujarat.

Praj Industries is a global process solutions company offering value-added solutions to bioenergy facilities, compressed biogas plants, critical process equipment and skids, brewery plants, industrial wastewater treatment systems,HiPurity water systems and others. Over the past 20 years Praj has completed more than 50 biogas plants, most of which operate on industrial waste streams, according to the company website. (Source: Praj Industries, PR, Website, Business Standard, 1 Jan., 2021)Contact: Praj Industries Ltd., Dr. Ravindra Utgikar , Bus. Dev. info@praj.net, www.praj.net; Indian Oil Corporation, www.iocl.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Praj Industries ,  RNG,  Biofuel,  

Growth Energy
Date: 2020-12-30
"Canada continues to be a trailblazer in addressing climate change and cutting greenhouse gases through biofuels." -- Emily Skor, Growth Energy, CEO commenting the Canadian governments recently announced nationwide Clean Fuel Standard draft regulation.

The Canadian regulation is an initiative to reduce the lifecycle carbon intensity of fuels and energy used in Canada and achieve a more than 20 million tpy reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The Canadian Clean Fuel Standard aims for an average 15 pct (E15) ethanol-gasoline blend rate by 2030. (Source: Growth Energy, Dec, 2020) Contact: Growth Energy, Emily Skor, (202) 545-4000, www.growthenergy.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News E15,  Growth Energy,  Ethanol,  Ethanol Blend,  Canada Clan Fuels Standard,  

MAP 2000 Development Corp
Date: 2020-12-28
In the Philippines, MAP 2000 Development Corp. (M2DC) is reporting a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under which it will take a 67 pct majority stake -- 9.82 billion shares -- in Basic Energy Corporation Basic Biofuels, subject to regulatory and other conditions. Financial and other details of the deal were not disclosed.

"M2DC is a Philippine registered company engaged in real estate acquisition, development, and management, and as well as in investing in real properties and acquiring shares of stocks of viable corporations to exercise rights of a shareholder. The company owns Basic Diversified Industrial Holdings Inc., an investment holding company; iBasic Inc., an information technology management company and service integrator; Basic Biofuels Corp., a biofuels developer; Basic Renewables, which is into the development of renewable energy; Basic Geothermal Energy Corp., which is into geothermal energy development; and Grandway Group Limited, a Hong Kong-based unit in charge of equity investments abroad. It also owns 72.58 pct of Southwest Resources Inc., an oil exploration company. (Source: Basic Energy Corp., PR, Website, 21 Dec., 2020) Contact: MAP 2000 Development Corp.Basic Energy, Basic Biofuels Corp, +63.2.88178596, www.basicenergy.ph

More Low-Carbon Energy News Philippine Biofuel,  

Date: 2020-12-21
In Ottawa, the CBC is reporting the Canadian federal government has proposed rules for its Clean Fuel Standard (CFS) that producers and distributors would have to follow under the Canadian climate plan. The CFS to intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the carbon in transportation fuels and heating oil.

The regulations would require fossil fuels producers and distributors to reduce their products carbon content by 2.6 pct by 2022 increasing to 13 pct by 2030. Companies could achieve that by reducing carbon emitted during production and use of those fuels or by earning credits to apply against emissions. Import rules would be tightened to ensure biofuels brought into Canada were actually reducing carbon emissions in their country of origin. The rules would also enable fuel distributors to earn credits by helping drivers switch to electric vehicles by, for example, building charging stations.

Current biofuel and fossil fuel blending requirements would remain and become part of the new regulations which are projected to reduce emissions by nearly 21 megatonnes by 2030. (Source: CBC News, 20 Dec., 2020)

More Low-Carbon Energy News Canada Clean Fuel Standard,  

Leading Edge Jet Center
Date: 2020-12-11
In Seattle, Leading Edge Jet Center (LEJC) a provider of business aviation services throughout the Pacific Northwest, is reporting the the introduction of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to its Fixed Base Operator facility at the King County International Airport-Boeing Field in Seattle, Washington, one of the busiest general aviation airports in the United States.

The offering is in partnership with Ann Arbor, Michigan-based global aviation fuels and services provider Avfuel Corporation which last August announced it would supply 7,300 gallons of SAD to operators flying in and out of Jackson Hole Aviation airfield in a demo to encourage commercial-scale SAF production and use. (Source: Leading Edge Jet Center, PR, 9 Dec., 2020) Contact: Leading Edge Jet Center, Scott Helms, GM , Steven Levesque, (843) 412-6881, slevesque@aviationinfrastructure.com, www.LeadingEdgeJet.com: Avfuel Corp., Keith Sawyer, Alt. Fuels Manager, (734) 663-6466, www.avfuel.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Avfuel,  SAF,  Aviation Biofuels,  

US DOE
Date: 2020-12-11
In Washington, the US DOE has announced up to $35 million in funding for bioenergy feedstock technologies and algae research and development. This funding opportunity announcement (FOA) supports the White House priority for advancing the domestic bioeconomy, as well as the Bioenergy Technologies Office's goals of improving the performance and lowering the cost and risk of technologies that can be used to produce biofuels, biopower, and bioproducts. Topic Areas include:

Characterization of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) to Enable Production of Conversion-Ready Feedstocks (up to $15M): (a) Measurement of variability of key MSW characteristics within and across unique MSW streams (b) Development of novel methods for rapid/real-time measurements.

Algae Productivity Exceeding Expectations (APEX) (up to $20M): (a) Improvements in productivity with traditional carbon dioxide (CO2) supply (b) Improvements in productivity with Direct Air Capture (DAC) of CO2 from ambient air.

The Feedstock Technologies Topic Area will focus on the characterization of MSW streams. Projects will work on understanding MSW variability and informing the steps necessary to produce conversion-ready feedstock. The Advanced Algal Systems Topic Area looks to improve seasonal productivity of algae via a diverse portfolio of strains and improvement approaches. Projects will develop tools to accelerate current and future strain and cultivation improvements.

The application process will include two phases: a concept paper and a full application. Concept papers are due on February 1, 2021, and full applications are due on April 5, 2021.

Download details HERE. (Source: US DOE, 18 Dec., 2020) Contact: US DOR, www.energy.gov/eere

More Low-Carbon Energy News US DOE EERE,  Biofuel,  Algae,  Bioenergy,  

Enerkem
Date: 2020-12-09
Montreal-based biofuels-renewable fuels from wastes specialist Enerkem and strategic partners Shell, Suncor, Proman and Hydro-Quebec is reporting plans to develop a 33.2 million gpy biorefinery in Varennes, Quebec.

The proposed $875 million (Cdn) Varennes Carbon Recycling facility would produce ethanol and renewable chemicals from roughly 200,000 metric tpy of wood waste, forest biomass and non-recyclable plastic and solid waste materials using a proprietary thermochemical technology.

Enerkem notes the proposed project will leverage green hydrogen and oxygen produced through electrolysis and include construction of one of the world's largest renewable hydrogen and oxygen production facilities. The first phase of the proposed project is slated for commissioning in 2023. (Source: Enerkem, Website, 8 Dec., 2020) Contact: Enerkem, Dominique Boies, CEO and CFO, 514-375-7800, communications@enerkem.com, www.enerkem.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Enerkem,  Ethanol,  Biofuel,  

Asian Development Bank
Date: 2020-12-09
The Manila-headquartered lending agency Asian Development Bank (ADB) is reporting approval of $2.5 million in technical assistance grant funding to support advanced biofuel development of advanced bioethanol, bio-compressed natural gas, and biodiesel plants to demonstrate the best practices for suitable feedstock, efficient conversion technology, and sustainable biofuel value chain in India.

The grant is funded from the Asia Clean Energy Fund, financed by the Government of Japan under the Clean Energy Financing Partnership Facility, and the Republic of Korea's e-Asia and Knowledge Partnership Fund. (Source: Asian Development Bank, Energy InfraPost, 9 Dec., 2020) Contact: Asia Development Bank, Takehiko Nakao, Pres. +63 2 632 4444, www.adb.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Asian Development Bank ,  India,  Biofuel,  Biodiesel,  Advanced Biofuel,  

Renewable Fuels Association
Date: 2020-12-09
A coalition of the Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, National Corn Growers Association, National Biodiesel Board, American Coalition for Ethanol, and National Farmers Union have filed a brief to the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals challenging EPA's August 2019 decision to exempt 31 small refineries from their obligations to comply with the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) in 2018.

The filing argues the EPA was not authorized to issue the exemptions and that it acted in an arbitrary and capricious manner in its decision.

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.

Download the coalition's brief HERE. (Source: Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, National Corn Growers Association, National Biodiesel Board, American Coalition for Ethanol, National Farmers Union, 8 Dec., 2020) Contact: National Farmers Union, Rob Larew, Pres., (202) 554-1600, www.nfu.org; Renewable Fuels Association, Geoff Cooper, Pres., CEO, (202) 289-3835, www.ethanolrfa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News RFS Hardship Waiver,  Renewable Fuels Association,  RFS,  National Farmers Union,  

Clariant
Date: 2020-12-04
Muttez, Germany-based specialty chemicals producer Clariant AG is reporting construction is well underway on of its Sunliquid® cellulosic ethanol production plant in Podari, in southwestern Romania.

The Sunliquid plant, which received more than €40 million in EU funding, will process approx. 250,000 tpy of locally sourced straw to produce 50,000 tpy of Sunliquid® cellulosic ethanol when fully operational in late 2021. (Source: Clariant AG, PR, 2 Dec., 2020) Contact: Clariant AG, Christian Librera, VP Biofuels and Derivatives, +41 61 469 63 73, Christian.librera@clariant.com, www.clariant.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Cellulosic Ethanol,  Clariant,  Sunliquid,  

Renewable Fuels Association,National Farmers Union
Date: 2020-12-02
Commenting on the US EPA's again missing the annual statutory deadline for the release of the RVOs, Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper said:

"It shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that EPA is missing its statutory deadline for publishing the final rule for 2021 RVOs, given that we still haven't even seen a proposed rule. And even if a proposed rule was released today, it would be next to impossible to have a final rule done by the end of the calendar year, or even by inauguration day.

"At this point, it likely makes more sense to let the new administration handle the 2021 RVO rulemaking process entirely. President-elect Biden has correctly noted that the RFS waivers granted by the current EPA have severely cut ethanol production, costing farmers income and ethanol plant workers their jobs. Thus, we are confident that the new EPA administrator, whoever that may end up being, will stop doing secret favors for oil refiners and ensure the RFS is implemented in a way that is consistent with the law and Congressional intent. We know it may take a few months for the new administration to get a final 2021 RVO rule done, but in the meantime, the statute is crystal clear that refiners must blend at least 15 billion gallons of conventional renewable fuel in 2021.

"So, while there may be some uncertainty around where the final advanced and cellulosic volume requirements may end up, the marketplace should be able to enter 2021 with some level of confidence around the conventional renewable fuel and biomass-based diesel requirements."

National Farmers Union President Rob Larew added, "By punting a decision on 2021's RVOS to the next administration, EPA is introducing yet more uncertainty to the biofuels industry -- uncertainty that most farmers and biofuels producers can't afford right now. Despite promising again and again to uphold RFS, the Trump administration has consistently undermined the program with its misappropriation of small refinery exemptions, preferential treatment of oil corporations, and disregard for its legal responsibility to restore lost demand, all of which has cost America's farmers and biofuel producers dearly. To add insult to injury, fuel use -- and, consequently, ethanol use -- has dropped significantly during the pandemic, cutting deeply into profits.

"Trump's EPA has almost invariably fallen short in its handling of biofuels, and today's decision, or lack thereof, is no different. We sincerely hope Biden's EPA learns from their mistakes and takes biofuels policy in a much more promising direction." (Source: National Farmers Union, Renewable Fuels Association, FencePost, 30 Nov., 2020) Contact: National Farmers Union, Rob Larew, Pres., (202) 554-1600, www.nfu.org; Renewable Fuels Association, Geoff Cooper, Pres., CEO, (202) 289-3835, www.ethanolrfa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuels Association,  RFS,  National Farmers Union ,  

Neste
Date: 2020-12-02
The Government of Quebec has announced $5.943 million ($4.55 million US) in funding to a non-profit organization Bioenergie La Tuque (BELT) to develop and demonstrate the potential of producing advanced biofuels from locally-sourced forestry waste, woody biomass in La Tuque, Quebec, Canada. The funding will be used to continue project development and plant design, and the potential of building a renewable fuels plant in the area.

BELT, the Council of the Atikamekw Nation and renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel provider Neste have been jointly assessing the feasibility of utilizing sustainably-sourced forest-based biomass and residues for advanced sustainable biofuels production since 2017.

The BioEnergie La Tuque project would utilize 650,000 metric tpy of forest biomass and aligns with and supports Quebec's established forest product industry and commitment to sustainable forestry management and biodiversity, according to the release. (Source: Neste Corporation, Press Release, 30 Nov., 2020) Contact: Neste Corp., Thorsten Lange, Exec. VP, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Woody Biomass,  Advanced Biofuel ,  

ePURE,European Environment Agency
Date: 2020-11-30
According to the European renewable ethanol trade association ePURE, even as the EU sets ambitious emissions reduction targets for 2030 and 2050, it is still falling short of an important milestone that looms much closer on the horizon -- reducing the average greenhouse gas-intensity of road transport fuels.

The EU's Fuel Quality Directive (FQD) requires Member States to reduce the GHG intensity of transport fuels by at least 6 pct by 2020 compared to 2010. But according to a new report published by the European Environment Agency (EEA), nearly all Member States are struggling to meet this goal. "Progress varied greatly across Member States, but almost all need to take swift action to meet the 2020 target of 6 pct," the EC noted in its corresponding Communication on the data.

The EEA report considers data submitted by Member States from 2018, the most recent year for which figures are available. The combined data show that the greenhouse gas intensity of fuels across the EU have fallen by 3.7 pct compared to the 2010 baseline, mostly due to the use of biofuels. Finland and Sweden -- which have national policies strongly favouring the use of biofuels -- are the only Member States whose emission intensities decreased by more than 6 pct. Nearly every other country has some catching up to do. Some countries have switched to E10 petrol blend, with up to 10 pct renewable ethanol by volume, in order to meet their targets.

The report again demonstrates the importance of biofuels to decarbonising transport fuels, both in terms of quantity and GHG savings. In particular, the EEA reports an average EU-level GHG emissions of renewable ethanol that confirms the impressive performance of ePURE members' ethanol in 2018 as found in our own audit: It also reinforces the importance of using more biofuels with strong GHG reduction performance and low ILUC impact such as European renewable ethanol. The EU's reliance on oil, fossil fuels made up 94.8 pct of total fuel supply in 2018.

ePURE's membership includes 19 producing companies with around 50 refineries in 16 EU Member States, accounting for about 85 pct of EU renewable ethanol production. (Source: ePURE Website, 27 Nov., 2020) Contact: ePURE, www.epure.org; European Environment Agency, www.eea.europa.eu

More Low-Carbon Energy News ePURE,  Ethanol,  GHG,  Greenhouse Gas,  Carbon Emissions,  

Uniper Energy, Neutral Fuels, International Maritime Organization
Date: 2020-11-30
In the UAE, Uniper Energy DMCC (UED) and Dubai-based Neutral Fuels have announced a collaboration to provide maritime biofuel in Fujairah, UAE. UED supplies very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO), and Neutral Fuels, winner of the ADIPEC 2020 Company of the Year Award in the Solutions to Climate Change category, pioneered the commercial viability of net zero biofuels to replace fossil fuels.

The two companies will blend UED's VLSFO and Neutral Fuels biofuel, creating a maritime fuel that meets the International Maritime Organization (IMO) standard, thereby cutting emissions of carbon dioxide. Limiting sulfur in shipping fuels to 0.5 pct as mandated by the IMO reduces a significant source of atmospheric pollution.

Neutral Fuels biofuels are produced from used vegetable cooking oil, have no land-use issues, are not in competition with food production, and do not cause or support deforestation, according to the company website. (Source: Neutral Fuels, Website PR, 26 Nov., 2020) Contact: Neutral Fuels, Gary Hubbard, CCO, +971 (0) 50 384 283, info@neutralfuels.com, www.neutralfuels.com; Uniper Energy, www.uniper.energy; International Maritime Organization, www.imo.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Marine Biofuel,  Biofuel,  CO2,  Carbon Emissions,  International Maritime Organization,  

Repsol
Date: 2020-11-27
Madrid-headquartered Repsol reports it plans to cut investments, while maintaining production in its core upstream business in 2021-2025 in a drive to become a global low-carbon generation operator with a capacity of 7.5GW by 2025 and 15GW by 2030.

The company plans to invest around €1.6 billion per year ($1.9 billion) in its upstream business in 2021-2025, compared with €2.4 billion in 2019 and €2.6 billion per year as previously announced. Total spending in upstream over the period will account for €8 billion (44 pct of total budgeted investment of €18.3 billion) while investments in the low carbon business -- including renewable energy and biofuels -- will amount to €5.5 billion, or 30 pct of the total. (Source: Repsol, PR, Nov., 2020)Contact: Repsol, Josu Jon Imaz, CEO, +34 91 7538100, +34 91 753 8000, www.repsol.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Repsol,  Biofuel,  

West Coast Reduction
Date: 2020-11-23
Vancouver-based West Coast Reduction Ltd is western Canada's largest supplier of animal and other organic waste feedstocks for liquid renewable fuel production. In total, the company recycles roughly 1 billion ppy of raw material, which is turned into fats and protein meal products. Those fats and meals contribute to finished products used in various applications, including making ingredients for everything from pet and livestock feed to ingredients used in biofuel.

Co-processing involves taking a bio feedstock such as tallow -- which West Coast Reduction supplies -- and co-firing it in the system along with traditional crude oil to produce a blended, lower carbon fuel product.

Through its retail brand Redux, West Coast Reduction also collects food waste from other forms of food production, including collecting byproducts from the bakery industry, such as wasted dough or flour that is no longer consumable. Those products are then re-purposed into animal feed ingredients. (Source: West Coast Reduction. Website, PR BIV 23 Nov., 2020) Contact: West Coast Reduction, 866-337-3355, www.wcrl.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel,  Biofuel Feedstock,  

IEA, Biofuel
Date: 2020-11-20
In its recently released Renewables 2020 -- Analysis and Forecast to 2025, the International Energy Agency (EIA) notes the global biofuels industry has been strongly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with production down approximately 11.6 pct when compared to 2019.

The IEA report predicts global transport biofuel production will be at 144 billion liters (38.04 billion gallons) in 2020, down 11.6 pct from the record set last year and the first reduction in annual production in two decades. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the IEA predicted a 3 pct growth in biofuel production for 2020.

gGlobal ethanol production is expected to be at 98 billion liters this year, down 14.5 pct from 115 billion liters in 2019. Global biodiesel production is expected to reach 46 billion liters this year, down 5 pct from 2019.

IEA also predicts global production of transportation biofuels could rebound to the 2019 level of production in 2021, at approximately 162 billion liters. Production is expected to jump an additional 4 pct in 2022 to 169 billion liters.

Download the Renewables 2020 -- Analysis and forecast to 2025 report HERE. (Source: IEA, Website, Nov., 2020) Contact: IEA, www.iea.org

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

EPA, RFS
Date: 2020-11-20
In Washington, the EPA is reporting over the past 30 days, US refiners added five requests for "hardship waiver" exemptions of 2020 renewable fuel blending requirements and one to exempt 2019 requirements . There are nine pending applications to waive Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) requirements for 2020 and 32 pending applications to waive 2019 requirements.

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,  

Minnesota Biofuel
Date: 2020-11-18
In St. Paul, the Minnesota Governor's Council on Biofuels has submitted its recommendations ways to grow Gopher State's biofuels industry and to get the state back on track to meet its renewable energy and greenhouse gas reduction goals.

Among other recommendations, the Governor's Council on Biofuels is calling for a state low-carbon fuel standard, the use of biofuels in state fleet vehicles, increased funding for the AGRI Bioincentive Program to provide a stable market and pathway for biofuels development, and the establishment of an Advanced Biofuels Taskforce to provide further recommendations for legislative or administrative state policy aimed at developing Minnesota's cellulosic natural resources to lower the carbon intensity of energy use in transportation.

Download the Council's comments HERE. (Source: Minnesota Department of Agriculture, 3 Nov., 2020) (Contact: Minnesota Department of Agriculture, 651-201-6000, www.mda.state.mn.us

More Low-Carbon Energy News Minnesota Biofuel,  

DOE Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines (Co-Optima) Initiative
Date: 2020-11-18
The US DOE Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines (Co-Optima) Initiative is seeking proposals to leverage National Laboratory resources and overcome key technical challenges to advancing new liquid fuels and blendstocks, with an emphasis on biofuels from renewable and waste resources, which enable higher efficiency and lower environmental impact engines in on-highway vehicles.

Proposals should address specific technical challenges and barriers that Co-Optima researchers can address to move new fuels closer to market in conjunction with advanced, high-efficiency engines.

C-Optima focuses on developing new high-performance fuels that, when combined with advanced combustion approaches, can boost engine efficiency and cut emissions.

Download details HERE. (Source: Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, PR, 13 Nov., 2020) Contact: Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, www.energy.gov/eere

More Low-Carbon Energy News DOE Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines Initiative,  Biofuel,  

Honeywell UOP, UOP, TOTAL
Date: 2020-11-16
Des Plaines, Illinois-based Honeywell reports TOTAL will use Honeywell UOP Ecofining™ process technology to produce renewable fuels, primarily for the aviation industry, at its Grandpuits platform at Seine-et-Marne in France .

Honeywell UOP will provide technology licenses, basic engineering, specialty equipment, and catalysts for the biorefinery project that will process 400,000 tpy of feedstock to produce 70,000 tpy of sustainable aviation fuel, 120,000 tpy of renewable diesel and 50,000 tpy of renewable naphtha for production of bioplastics.

Honeywell Green Jet Fuel™produced by this process is 50/50 blended with petroleum-based jet fuel at commercial scale and requires no changes to aircraft technology. (Source: Honeywell, PR, 13 Nov., 2020) Contact: Honeywell , www.honeywell.com, UOP , www.uop.com/biofuels, Honeywell Process Solutions, www.honeywellprocess.com; TOTAL, www.total.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Honeywell,  UOP,  TOTAL,  Renewable Diesel,  

Northwest Advanced Bio-Fuels
Date: 2020-11-16
Scottsdale, Arizona-based Northwest Advanced Bio-Fuels, LLC (NWABF) reports it currently holding active investment and funding discussions with U.S. infrastructure, energy investment firms and industry partners to raise hundreds of millions of dollars for its SAF Project in Washington State to produce and supply over 60 million gpy of SAF for Delta Air Lines.

The company has already received investment term sheets for the construction CAPEX of the project, from multiple qualified investors eager to participate in the project's funding needs. As a result, final development funding is expected to close soon. (Source: Northwest Advanced Bio-Fuels, PR, 16 Nov., 2020) Contact: Northwest Advanced Bio-Fuels Washington State project, David P. Smoot, Chris Whitworth, 602-753-8386, www.nwabiofuels.com,www.nwabiofuels.com/our-solution

More Low-Carbon Energy News Northwest Advanced Bio-Fuels,  SAF,  Aviation Biofuel,  

Repsol,Axens
Date: 2020-11-13
Following up on our Oct. 28th coverage, Madrid-based Repsol has selected Axens Vegan® technology for its first advanced biofuels production plant in Cartegena, Spain.

The new plant is expected to come in at $222.3 million and produce 250,000 tpy of biodiesel, biojet fuel, bionaphtha and biopropane while enabling a reduction of 900 000 tpy of CO2, according to the release.

Axens's technology hydrotreats a wide range of lipids to produce low-density and high cetane renewable diesel and renewable sulphur-free jet fuel. (Source: Axen Website PR, 10 Nov., 2020) Contact: Axens, Patrick Sarrazin, Exec. VP, www.axens.com; Repsol, Josu Jon Imaz, CEO, +34 91 7538100, +34 91 7538000, www.repsol.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Repsol,  Axens,  Renewable Diesel,  Biofuel,  Alternative Fuel,  

AlgaStar
Date: 2020-11-09
Gulf Breeze, Florida-based biomass cultivation and R&D specialist AlgaStar Inc. reports its wholly-owned New Mexico-based subsidiary BioStim's patented "electromagnetic biostimulation" research may result in creating more than a 300 pct biomass growth increase and 174 pct increase in lipid oil content in several alga samples over controlled growth conditions.

BioStim is leading a consortium of small businesses as a part of a New Mexico Small Business Assistance (NMSBA) program which allows local small businesses to work with scientists at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) to map the conditions under which biostimulation enhances the growth rate and metabolism for several biological cultures involving algae and bacteria by means of microwave energy for use in the future development of alternative biofuels production and other applications.

AlgaStar Inc. and its participants won a $1 million Florida state, 20-month, Renewable Energy and Energy Efficient Technologies (REET) research grant in 2018. Participants included Florida A & M University , NASA at Kennedy Space Center, and ARA, a leading US R& D/engineering firm. (Source: AlgaStar, PR, MENADN, 11 Nov., 2020) Contact: AlgaStar Inc., BioSTim Inc., Matthew Ortega, (505) 795-5600, M.Ortega@AlgaStar.com, www.algastar.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News AlgaStar,  Biomass,  Biofuel,  

University of Kentucky
Date: 2020-11-09
In Lexington, the University of Kentucky reports it is leading a national group of scientists and industry partners studying ways to reduce sulfur levels in pine forestry waste -- including needles, bark, branches and pulp -- used to produce biofuels. The sulfur levels of some byproducts are high enough to exceed U.S. EPA standards, if the sulfur was carried over to biofuels.

Through a three-year grant from the U.S. DOE EERE, the research team, led by Assistant Professor Jian Shi, will work to identify the reasons behind the sulfur variability in pine feedstocks by studying byproducts collected from across the nation. The research aims to better understand how sulfur accumulates in biofuel feedstocks, what happens to the sulfur during thermochemical conversion and how to remove sulfur and improve gasification.

With the DOE grant and cost-share dollars from universities and the industry, the project will total more than $2 million. Partners include researchers from UK's Center for Applied Energy Research, Kansas State University, Idaho National Laboratory, Mississippi State University and Red Rock Biofuels. (Source: University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Contact: University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Jian Shi, Lead Researcher, 859-257-3468, www.ca.uky.edu

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel,  Biofuel Feedstock,  Woody Biomass,  

Alfa Laval
Date: 2020-11-06
Lund, Sweden-based fluids handling specialist Alfa Laval reports its Test and Training Centre in Aalborg, Denmarg is collaborating with industry partners and research institutes for marine biofuels testing and taking a key role in the marine industry effort to meet the International Maritime Organization's (IMO's) goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 50 pct over 2008 levels by 2050.

The first biofuel tested at the Centre will be one produced in India by MASH Energy, which is created through pyrolysis of waste biomass.

The company also noted it is in talks with additional biofuel producers, as well as other research partners including Aalborg University, where fuels derived from hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) technology that can turn any wet organic material into an energy-dense bio-crude, are in focus. (Source: Alfa Laval, Manifold Times, 5 Nov., 2020) Contact: Alfa Laval Test & Training Centre, Lars Bo Andersen, Manager, +46 46 36 65 00, alfa.laval@alfalaval.com, www.alfalaval.com/industries/marine-transportation/marine/alfa-laval-test-and-training-centre; MASH Energy, www.mash-energy.com; IMO. www.imo.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News International Maritime Organization,  Alfa Laval Marine Biofuel,  Maritime Biofuel,  

Japan Airlines
Date: 2020-11-06
In Tokyo, Japan Airlines (JAL) reports it plans to regularly refuel aircraft connecting San Francisco and Japan with recycled aviation fuel made from household garbage produced by Fulcrum BioEnergy, starting as early as fiscal 2022.

The airline is aiming to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050 by introducing advanced jets and fuels and purchasing emission credits from other airlines.

JAL invested roughly $8.6 million in Fulcrum in 2018. (Source: JAL, PR, Nov., 2020) Contact: Fulcrum Bioenergy, Rick Barraza, VP, (925) 224-8244, rbarraza@fulcrum-bioenergy.com, www.fulcrum-bioenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Japan Airlines,  Fulcrum BioEnergy,  Aviation Biofuel ,  

Growth Energy, USDA
Date: 2020-11-02
Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor recently submitted the following comments to the USDA's Agriculture Innovation Agenda regarding readily available technologies that enable our domestic agriculture sector to increase production while reducing its environmental footprint.

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,  

Growth Energy, USDA
Date: 2020-10-30
In Washington, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor submitted comments to the USDA as part of the agency's Agriculture Innovation Agenda, regarding readily available technologies that enable the U.S. domestic agriculture sector to increase biofuel production while reducing its environmental footprint.

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,  

Repsol
Date: 2020-10-28
Madrid-based Repsol is reporting plans to construct a 250,000 tpy advanced transportation biofuels plant at its refinery in Cartagena, Spain. The new facility, which is expected to come in at $222.3 million, will include the commissioning of a hydrogen plant that will fuel a new hydro-treatment unit equipped with cutting-edge technology.

This project is part of Repsol's commitment to the clean energy transition and its goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The advanced biofuels produced at the Cartagena refinery will enable a reduction of 900 000 tpy of CO2, according to the release. (Source: Repsol, HydroCarbon Eng., 26 Oct., 2020) Contact: Repsol, Josu Jon Imaz, CEO, +34 91 7538100, +34 91 7538000, www.repsol.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Repsol,  Advanced Biofuel,  Cellulosic,  

IRFA
Date: 2020-10-26
In Washington, the Zero Emissions Vehicles Act Legislation recently introduced in the House and Senate calls for restricting the sale of passenger vehicles capable of utilizing biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel by 2025 with a complete ban in 2035.

Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw says the bill mandates electric cars but doesn't take into account electric cars don't have zero emissions. Shaw claims biofuels have a better carbon footprint with lower emissions than electric vehicles that are powered by coal and suggests the best way to cut emissions is to set reduction targets and let the fuel and vehicle market decide how to achieve those goals. (Source: IRFA, WNAX, 26 Oct., 2020) Contact: IRFA, Monte Shaw, Ecex. Dir., (515) 252-6249, (515) 225-0781 -- fax, www.iowarfa.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News IRFA,  Zero Emission Vehicle,  Transportation Emissions,  

Canada Clean Fuels Standard,Suzuki Foundation
Date: 2020-10-23
"The UN's annual Emissions Gap Report 2019 found Earth is headed toward 3.2 degrees C warming based on current and estimated emissions trends and called on governments to increase efforts to limit global warming immediately. But Canada isn't even on track to meet its original 2030 emissions-reduction targets.

"Greenpeace recently obtained leaked strategy documents advising industry to push back against measures such as the federal clean fuel standard that prompts a switch to low-carbon fuels by setting limits on greenhouse-gas emissions from fossil fuels. To meet it, fossil-fuel suppliers can buy or generate credits by offering low-carbon alternatives, like biofuels from waste organics or electric-vehicle charging stations. The clean-fuel-credit market is expected to attract investment in low-carbon fuel production and distribution in Canada.

"It's a smart move as the government looks to support economic recovery. Clean-fuels investments generate employment. Clean Energy Canada estimates the regulation could spur the need for up to 31,000 skilled workers to build, operate, and supply new facilities.

Navigator, the PR firm engaged to develop an action plan to counter the clean-fuel standard, advises its unnamed clients to use a "counter-punch strategy" -- to pay lip service to government's climate agenda, wait for the clean-fuel-standard announcement, then orchestrate a hard push-back. Part of the scheme is to convince Canadians that "fighting climate change is a losing battle" by arguing action is too costly. It's dishonest. Energy companies -- and the politicians they're seeking to influence -- know Canada must decarbonize the fuel supply to reduce GHG emissions.

"All the major federal political parties have pledged to meet or exceed Canada's 2030 targets. The clean-fuel standard is projected to reduce annual GHG emissions by 30 million tonnes by 2030 -- equivalent to taking 7 million cars off the road and accounts for 15 pct of Canada's current emissions-reduction target -- more than can be achieved with any other single climate-policy instrument.

"B.C.'s (British Columbia) low-carbon fuel requirement has been in place since 2010 and is credited with delivering one-quarter of B.C.'s emissions reductions between 2007 and 2012 with limited impacts to consumers' pocketbooks. As part of its CleanBC plan, the province recently announced further reductions to the carbon intensity of transportation fuels over the next decade using this instrument. California, Oregon, and the EU have parallel policies. Their experience shows that a clean-fuel standard can reduce emissions, drive innovation, and increase renewable alternatives availability.

"Too often, industry opposition to environmental policies isn't driven by facts but by vested interests. Climate action is in everyone's interest. Government must stand firm on the policies needed to achieve timely emissions reductions. The sooner Canada adopts its clean fuel standard, the better."

Download the UN Emissions Gap Report 2019 HERE. (Source: David Suzuki, Suzuki Foundation, The Straight, 20 Oct, 2020) Contact: Suzuki Foundation, David Suzuki, 604-732-4228, www.davidsuzuki.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Clean Fuel Standard,  Renewable Fuels,  Suzuki Foundation,  Environment and Climate Change Canada,  

Eastern Pacific Shipping
Date: 2020-10-16
Singapore-based Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) reports Amsterdam-based sustainable marine biofuels specialist GoodFuels supplied biofuel bunkers for its MR tanker M/T Pacific Beryl biofuels trials of various alternative marine fuels to significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions. GoodFuels supplied a residual-fuel equivalent biofuel oil (BFO) for the performance test.

GoodFuels is a leading supplier of bio-based bunker fuel for the shipping sector, notably a wood-derived HFO substitute it calls "bio-fuel oil" which, as previously reported, has been used by Boskalis, Norden, CMA CGM, Wartsila and Ikea. (Source: Eastern Pacific Shipping, Website PR, 15 Oct., 2020) Contact: GoodFuels, Bart Hellings, CEO, EPS , Cyril Ducau, CEO, +31 88 021 5100, info@goodfuels.com, www.goodfuels.com, www.epsshipping.com.sg

More Low-Carbon Energy News GoodFuels,  Marine Biofuel,