Neste, ExxonMobil
Date: 2022-01-12
Petroleum fuels giant ExxonMobil is reporting an agreement with Finland-headquartered renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) producer Neste Corp., iation Fuel at France's major airports. Under the partnership, Neste's SAF production capabilities will be integrated with ExxonMobil's traditional jet fuel delivery and distribution operations.

The agreement follows the French Government's 1 pct SAF jet fuel blend mandate, which came into force from Jan. 1, 2022. (Source: ExxonMobil, PR, Jan., 2021) Contact: ExxonMobil, www.corporate.exxonmobil.com; Neste, Thorsten Lange, Exec. VP, Renewable Aviation, Minna Aila, Senior VP, Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, +358 50 458 5076, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Exxon,  SAF,  Renewable Diesel ,  

Renewable Energy Group
Date: 2022-01-10
In Ames, Iowa, Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (REG) Pres. & CEO Cynthia 'CJ' Warner issued the following statement regarding the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) release of the proposed Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs):

"We are pleased to see that the Agency has proposed growth for 2022 in the biomass-based diesel and total advanced categories, as these support clean, renewable fuels that are enabling real decarbonization, right now. Demand for these products is growing as customers seek ready-now, low carbon solutions.

"In fact, with the anticipated increased capacity of renewable diesel coming online in 2022 to meet this demand, and the ample availability of feedstock to support this growth, we believe that the proposed advanced volumes are conservative and should be increased further. We look forward to continuing this important discussion with Administration officials.

"We are encouraged that the EPA is standing behind its sound analysis in proposing to deny all 65 pending small refiner exemption requests. Bio-based diesel delivers the powerful emissions reductions this country needs, and refiners themselves are participating in production of bio-based diesel in growing numbers. Consumers are demanding lower carbon fuels today and our industry stands ready for growth. Bio-based diesel has many benefits beyond carbon reduction. The industry is creating green jobs, contributing to cleaner air, supporting sustainable agriculture and growing rural economies." (Source: Renewable Energy Group, Inc., PR, 8 Jan., 2021) Contact: Renewable Energy Group, Inc., Cynthia Warner, CEO, Katie Stanley, katie.stanley@regi.com, www.regi.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuel Standard,  RFS,  Renewable Energy Group,  EPA RVO,  Biodiesel,  

Johnson Matthey
Date: 2022-01-07
In the UK, Johnson Matthey, a global leader in sustainable technologies, is reporting the launch of HyCOgen™ -- Reverse Water Gas Shift technology enabling the conversion of captured CO2 and green hydrogen into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

By combining HyCOgen with FT CANS Fischer Tropsch technology Johnson Matthey offers an integrated, scalable solution for use in the efficient and cost-effective production of renewable power based SAF.

HyCOgen is a catalysed process to convert green hydrogen and CO2 into carbon monoxide which is combined with additional hydrogen to form synthesis gas (syngas), a crucial building block in the manufacture of fuels and chemicals. The integration with the FT CANS technology provides an end to end, optimized and highly scalable process that turns over 95 pct of the CO2 into high quality synthetic crude oil that can be further upgraded into sustainable drop-in fuel products including SAF, renewable diesel and naphtha.

The scalability of the integrated HyCOgen/FT CANS solution enables cost-effective deployment across a wide range of project sizes -- from small-scale, fed by hydrogen from a single electrolyser, through to world-scale with multiple large electrolyser modules, according to the release. (Source: Johnson Matthey, Website, PR, 5 Jan., 2022) Contact: Johnson Matthey, Jane Toogood, Sector Chief Executive, group.info@matthey.com, www.matthey.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Johnson Matthey,  SAF,  CO2,  Syngas,  Renewable Diesel,  Carbon Capture,  Green Hydrogen,  

Viking Energy
Date: 2022-01-05
Houston-headquartered Viking Energy Group, Inc. is reporting a conditional Membership Interest Purchase Agreement to acquire a 100 pct interest in a group of (unnamed) companies that are in the process of engineering, developing and constructing a 43 million gpy plant to produce renewable diesel in Reno Nevada. The Plant is near completion.

The Membership Interest Purchase Agreement conditions Viking having obtained financing, on terms and conditions satisfactory to Viking in its sole discretion.

Viking Energy Group, Inc. is a growth-oriented diversified energy company. Through various majority-owned subsidiaries, Viking provides custom energy & power solutions to commercial and industrial clients in North America and owns interests in oil and natural gas assets in the United States. The company also holds an exclusive license in Canada to a patented carbon-capture system. (Source: Viking Energy Group Inc., PR, Website, Dec., 2021) Contact: Viking Energy Group, 281-404-4387, www.vikingenergygroup.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Viking Energy,  Renewable Diesel ,  

Global Clean Energy Holdings, Sustainable Oils
Date: 2022-01-05
Torrance, California-based renewable fuels producer Global Clean Energy Holdings, Inc. (GCE) is reporting the acquisition Madrid-headquartered Camelina Company Espana S.L. (CCE), Europe's largest camelina producer .

CCE has for more than 10 years developed intellectual property (IP) in camelina to support a sustainable biofuels value chain. CCE's IP includes superior genetics, breeding capabilities, high quality planting seed, advanced agronomic research, and knowledge to support the cultivation of camelina by contract farmers. CCE, together with Seattle-based Sustainable Oils, Inc. (SusOils), also a wholly owned subsidiary of GCE, will further enhance the company's portfolio of patented camelina genetics.

Camelina is an essential part of the feedstock plan for GCE's integrated farm-to-fuels strategy. In early 2022, GCE will open a newly renovated renewable diesel biorefinery in Bakersfield, California, US, and supply ExxonMobil up to 220 million gallons annually of renewable diesel under a pair of long-term purchase agreements, according to the release. (Source: Global Clean Energy Holdings, PR, Website, Jan., 2022) Contact: Global Clean Energy Holdings, Richard Palmer, CEO, 424-318-3618, contact@gceholdings.com, www.gceholdings.com; Sustainable Oils, Inc., www.susoils.com; Camelina Company Espana, +34 917 33 90 53, camelinacompany.es

More Low-Carbon Energy News Sustainable Oils,  Camelina,  Global Clean Energy Holdings,  Renewable Diesel,  

US DOE BETO
Date: 2022-01-03
In Washington, the U.S. DOE has released a new request for information (RFI) on the scale-up and demonstration of renewable fuels. The RFI, titled Overcoming Barriers to Renewable Fuel Scale-Up and Demonstration seeks input from biofuels producers and technology developers about their readiness to scale process technologies to pilot- and demonstration-scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), renewable diesel, and renewable marine fuels. The RFI also seeks input on how existing first-generation ethanol and other existing industries could be leveraged to provide low-cost feedstock and infrastructure for biofuels production, including information on practices that can reduce the carbon intensity of corn production.

This RFI seeks input from biofuels producers and technology developers about their readiness to scale process technologies to pilot and demonstration-scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), renewable diesel and renewable marine fuels. This information is necessary for DOE's Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) to chart the potential growth of domestic renewable fuels production by 2030 and to understand the barriers in scaling renewable fuel production pathways. This RFI also seeks information on how DOE can best assist biofuels production stakeholders in their research and development (R&D) and scaling up of their technologies through demonstration scale. The RFI is seeking feedback on issues related to the following:

Biofuel Pathway Scale-Up Forecasts -- plans by developers to scale SAF, marine, and renewable diesel production

Barriers to Scale-Up of SAF, Marine, and Renewable Diesel Technologies -- input on technical, financial, legal, contractual, policy and other barriers

Leveraging First Generation Ethanol and Other Incumbent Industries -- information on technological improvements that could enhance low-carbon fuel production

BETO Scale-Up of Biotechnologies Strategy -- input on BETO's scale-up strategy and other forms of financial assistance to support biofuel scale-up and commercialization

Leveraging National Laboratory PDU to Scale-Up Renewable Fuels -- insight on how DOE National Laboratory capabilities can support biofuel scale-up and commercialization

Feedstock Production & Supply -- information on sustainable corn farming practices and challenges in establishing robust biomass feedstock supply chains.

This is solely a request for information and not a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA). EERE is not accepting applications.

Responses must be submitted electronically to Biofuels_FY22_RFI@ee.doe.gov no later than 5:00pm (ET) on January 31, 2022. Responses must be provided as attachments to an email. It is recommended that attachments with file sizes exceeding 25MB be compressed (i.e., zipped) to ensure message delivery. Responses must be provided as a Microsoft Word (.docx) attachment to the email, and no more than 10 pages in length, 12 point font, 1 inch margins. Only electronic responses will be accepted.

In addition to, or in lieu of, providing written responses to this RFI, respondents may request a 30-minute individual discussion with a BETO staff member regarding the content of their written responses to the RFI questions via Biofuels_FY22_RFI@ee.doe.gov. (Source: US DOE, BETO, PR, 28 Dec., 2021) Contact: US DOE BETO, energy.gov/eere/bioenergy/bioenergy-technologies-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News US DOE BETO,  Renewable Fuels,  Biofuel,  

Kentucky Department of Agriculture
Date: 2021-12-31
In Frankfort, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture has launched the Kentucky Renewable Chemical Production Program for the production of more than 30 specified chemicals derived from biomass feedstocks.

The incentives program will share tax credits previously established for renewable diesel or biodiesel production in the commonwealth. The total amount of tax credit will be 5 cents per molecular pound of weight of renewable chemicals produced in Kentucky by an eligible business, unless the total amount of approved credits for all taxpayers exceeds the annual cap of $10 million for the program.

Download program details HERE . (Source: Kentucky Department of Agriculture , 29 Dec., 2021) Contact: Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Renewable Chemical Production Program, Tim Hughes, 502-573-0282, timd.hughes@ky.gov, www.kyagr.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biochemical,  Renewable Chemical,  Biomass,  

National Biodiesel Board
Date: 2021-12-31
"The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) welcomed the release of a new report, The Economic Benefits of the Biodiesel Blenders' Credit from Capital Policy Analytics. The report calculates annual economic benefits of $15 billion and environmental benefits of $4.3 billion from U.S. biodiesel production. In 2020, the U.S. market for biodiesel and renewable diesel reached 3 billion gallons with support from the $1 per gallon tax incentive.

"The current tax credit expires at the end of 2022. Letting it expire would harm the U.S. economy and the environment, the data show. A significant body of research also demonstrates that the biodiesel tax credit easily passes a cost-benefit analysis, and that the environmental benefits alone from each gallon of biodiesel that replaces petrodiesel exceed two dollars a gallon, or more than double the cost of the credit," the report notes.

"Moreover, the report finds that in 2019 use of biodiesel reduced U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 18 million metric tons. The cumulative greenhouse gas emission reduction since the inception of the biodiesel tax incentive is more than 100 million metric tons. "The report authors write, 'We believe that ending the credit in 2022, when the current legislation providing for it expires, would be inadvisable and would likely devastate the market, resulting in the destruction of thousands of jobs, an increase in greenhouse gas emissions and other local air pollutants, and the undoing of much of what the previous 17 years accomplished -- namely, the establishment of a robust market for an important fuel and an essential tool for reversing climate change."

"The U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel industry supports 65,000 U.S. jobs and more than $17 billion in economic activity each year. Every 100 million gallons of production supports 3,200 jobs and $780 million in economic opportunity. The new report estimates that expiration of the tax incentive would eliminate as many as 3,000 jobs in the biodiesel and renewable diesel industry. The total employment loss throughout the supply chain associated with production would be between 7,500 and 9,000 jobs," according the NBB.

Download the The Economic Benefits of the Biodiesel Blenders' Credit report HERE . (Source: NBB, Website PR, 16 Dec., 2021) Contact: NBB, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, 800) 841-5849, www.nbb.org

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

Neste, Vattenfall
Date: 2021-12-31
Finland-headquartered renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) producer Neste Corp., is reporting an 800 GWh power purchase agreement (PPA) with Vattenfall for hydropower from its Nordic hydropower plants for delivery in the beginning of January 2022.

Neste aims to use 100 pct renewable electricity globally by 2023 and, in addition to the Vattenfall hydropower agreement, has increased the use of renewable electricity at its Porvoo refinery in Finland with wind power and has agreed on wind power deliveries with its partners Statkraft, Ilmatar and Fortum.

Neste is committed to combating climate change and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions both globally and locally. To that end, the company aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its own production, cut emission intensity of the use of products sold by Neste and help customers reduce emissions with Neste's renewable and circular solutions. The company is aiming to be carbon neutral by 2035.

Download Neste climate commitment details HERE . (Source: Neste Corporation, Website PR, 22 Dec. 2021) Contact: Neste Corp.,, Minna Aila, Senior VP, Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, +358 50 458 5076, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Vattenfall,  Carbon Neutral,  GHG,  Hydropower,  Renewable energy,  

DOE BETO
Date: 2021-12-29
The U.S. Department of Energy has released a new request for information (RFI) on the scale-up and demonstration of renewable fuels. The RFI, titled Overcoming Barriers to Renewable Fuel Scale-Up and Demonstration, seeks input from biofuels producers and technology developers about their readiness to scale process technologies to pilot- and demonstration-scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), renewable diesel, and renewable marine fuels. The RFI also seeks input on how existing first-generation ethanol and other existing industries could be leveraged to provide low-cost feedstock and infrastructure for biofuels production. The RFI also seeks information on how DOE BETO can best assist biofuels production stakeholders in their research and development and scaling up of their technologies through demonstration scale.

Constructing and operating pilot- and demonstration-scale facilities is essential to de-risk technology and ensure the success of subsequent commercial scale projects. BETO recognizes the availability of financing for first-of-a-kind process systems can be a barrier to commercializing advanced biofuels.

Input is sought from bioenergy companies that are planning to scale up and demonstrate SAF, renewable diesel, and renewable marine fuel technologies from the lower Technology Readiness Levels) to pilot and demonstration stage and eventual commercialization. This information will inform a multi-year scale-up strategy resulting in the construction and operation of several SAF, renewable diesel, and/or renewable marine fuel production pathways.

Feedback is requested from industry, academia, research laboratories, government agencies, and other stakeholders on issues related to the scale-up of renewable fuel production technologies. Specifically, the DOE is interested in receiving information and input on:

Biofuel Pathway Scale-Up Forecasts -- plans by developers to scale SAF, marine, and renewable diesel production

Barriers to Scale-Up of SAF, Marine, and Renewable Diesel Technologies -- input on technical, financial, legal, contractual, policy and other barriers

Leveraging First Generation Ethanol and Other Incumbent Industries -- information on technological improvements that could enhance low-carbon fuel production

BETO Scale-Up of Biotechnologies Strategy -- input on BETO's scale-up strategy and other forms of financial assistance to support biofuel scale-up and commercialization

Leveraging National Laboratory PDU to Scale-Up Renewable Fuels -- insight on how DOE National Laboratory capabilities can support biofuel scale-up and commercialization

Feedstock Production & Supply -- information on sustainable corn farming practices and challenges in establishing robust biomass feedstock supply chains.

View the RFI details HERE . (Source: U.S. Department of Energy, 28 Dec., 2021) Contact: US DOE Biotechnologies Office, www.energy.gov/eere/bioenergy/bioenergy-technologies-office

More Low-Carbon Energy News DOE BETO,  Renewable Fuel,  SAF,  Ethanol,  Biofuel,  Renewable Diesel,  

Marathon Petroleum,Archer Daniels Midland
Date: 2021-12-22
Following up on our August 25th coverage, Findlay, Ohio-headquartered Marathon Petroleum Corp. and Chicago-based Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) are reporting the closing of their joint venture to produce soybean oil to supply the rapidly growing demand for renewable diesel fuel.

The $350 million project -- named Green Bison Soy Processing, LLC -- will own and operate a soybean processing complex in Spiritwood, North Dakota, with ADM holding 75 pct of the joint venture and Marathon Petroleum owning 25 pct. When fully operational in 2023, the Green Bison complex is expected to produce 600 million ppy of refined soybean oil -- sufficient for the production of 75 million gpy of renewable diesel. (Source: ADM, Website PR, 15 Dec., 2021) Contact: Marathon Petroleum Corp., 419.422.2121, www.marathonpetroleum.com; ADM, www.adm.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Marathon Petroleum,  Archer Daniels Midland,  Renewable Diesel,  Soybean Oil,  Biofuel Feedstock,  

Malaysia Airlines
Date: 2021-12-22
Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia, is reporting its inaugural flight using a blend mixture of approximately 38 pct Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™ (SAF) and conventional jet fuel, in partnership with PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad (PDB) and Helsinki-headquartered Neste.

The successful operation was a result of the supply deal between PETCO Trading (UK) Ltd, which is PETRONAS' marketing and trading arm in Europe, and Neste, the world's leading producer of renewable diesel and SAF refined from waste and residues. In its neat form, and over the life cycle, Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80 pct compared to fossil jet fuel use, according to Neste.

In addition to using SAF, the flight deployed GE Digital's FlightPulse® and Fuel Insight software to track in-flight fuel performance. The flight data will be processed and analyzed to help better understand possible futyre SAF fueled flights, according to the release. (Source: Neste, Website PR, Dec., 2021) Contact: Neste, Thorsten Lange, Exec. VP, Renewable Aviation, Minna Aila, Senior VP, Sustainability and Corporate Affairs, +358 50 458 5076, www.neste.com; Malaysia Airlines, www.malaysiaairlines.com/hq

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  SAF,  

Aemetis
Date: 2021-12-22
Cupertino, California-based renewable natural gas (RNG), renewable fuel and biochemicals specialist Aemetis, Inc. reports signing a 10-year, 450-million-gpy renewable diesel supply agreement with an unnamed industry-leading travel stop company -- 450 million gallons is enough fuel for an estimated 3.6 billion miles of heavy truck and cargo transportation.

Renewable diesel is a drop-in fuel that significantly reduces greenhouse gases and other emissions from heavy duty vehicles that would otherwise use petroleum diesel. The agreement is in keeping with the travel stop company's continuing strategy to diversify its fueling operations, according to the release. (Source: Aemetis Inc., PR, 20 December, 2021)Contact: Aemetis, Eric McAfee, CEO,emcafee@aemetis.com, Andy Foster, (408) 213-0940, Fax: (408) 252-8044, www.aemetis.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis,  Renewable Diesel,  SAF,  

National Biodiesel Board
Date: 2021-12-17
In Washington, the National Biodiesel Board (NBB) welcomed the release of a new report, The Economic Benefits of the Biodiesel Blenders' Credit from Capital Policy Analytics. The report calculates annual economic benefits of $15 billion and environmental benefits of $4.3 billion from U.S. biodiesel production. In 2020, the U.S. market for biodiesel and renewable diesel reached 3 billion gallons with support from the $1 per gallon tax incentive.

According to the report, the U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel industry supports 65,000 U.S. jobs and more than $17 billion in economic activity each year. Every 100 million gallons of production supports 3,200 jobs and $780 million in economic opportunity. The new report estimates that expiration of the tax incentive would eliminate as many as 3,000 jobs in the biodiesel and renewable diesel industry. The total employment loss throughout the supply chain associated with production would be between 7,500 and 9,000 jobs.

Moreover, the report finds that in 2019 use of biodiesel reduced U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 18 million metric tons. The cumulative greenhouse gas emission reduction since the inception of the biodiesel tax incentive is more than 100 million metric tons.

Download the The Economic Benefits of the Biodiesel Blenders' Credit report HERE . (Source: NBB, Website RR, 16 Dec., 2021) Contact: NBB, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, 800) 841-5849, www.nbb.org

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

Renewable Energy Group
Date: 2021-12-10
Ames, Iowa-based renewable fuels producer Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (REGI) President and CEO Cynthia Warner issued the following statement regarding the EPA release of the proposed Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs).

"We are pleased to see that the Agency has proposed growth for 2022 in the biomass-based diesel and total advanced categories, as these support clean, renewable fuels that are enabling real decarbonization, right now. Demand for these products is growing as customers seek ready-now, low carbon solutions.

"In fact, with the anticipated increased capacity of renewable diesel coming online in 2022 to meet this demand, and the ample availability of feedstock to support this growth, we believe that the proposed advanced volumes are conservative and should be increased further. We look forward to continuing this important discussion with Administration officials.

"We are encouraged that the EPA is standing behind its sound analysis in proposing to deny all 65 pending small refiner exemption requests. Bio-based diesel delivers the powerful emissions reductions this country needs, and refiners themselves are participating in production of bio-based diesel in growing numbers. Consumers are demanding lower carbon fuels today and our industry stands ready for growth. Bio-based diesel has many benefits beyond carbon reduction. The industry is creating green jobs, contributing to cleaner air, supporting sustainable agriculture and growing rural economies."

In 2020, REGI produced 519 million gallons of cleaner fuel delivering 4.2 million metric tons of carbon reduction. Source: Renewable Energy Group, Inc., PR, 8 Dec., 2021) Contact: Renewable Energy Group, Inc., Cynthia Warner, CEO, Katie Stanley, katie.stanley@regi.com, www.regi.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Diesel,  Renewable Energy Group,  RVO,  Renewable Fuel Standard,  

Sherdar Australia
Date: 2021-12-08
In the Land Down Under, Sherdar Australia Bio Refinery Pty Ltd., a special purpose investment vehicle recently established in Australia by Transasia Minerals Ltd, is reporting plans to develop a 500,000 tpy renewable diesel processing and storage facility at an as yet unannounced location. Transasia Minerals Ltd. is a Jakarta-based privately owned investment company focused on the mining, oil and gas, and energy sectors

The planned facility will use regionally sourced feedstocks and deploy Shell's hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) technology. Sherdar is currently in the final stages of engineering and receiving relevant approvals for the project which is expected to come in at roughly $600 million. (Source: Transasia Minerals Ltd., PR, Macau Business, Dec., 2021) Contact: Transasia Minerals Ltd., www.transasiaminerals.com/home

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Diesel,  Biodiesel,  Australia Biodiesel,  Biofuel,  

Aemetis
Date: 2021-12-08
Cupertino, California-headquartered renewable fuels producer Aemetis, Inc. reports it has completed the reincorporation of the Company from the State of Nevada to the State of Delaware.

The change in legal domicile was approved at the Company's Annual Meeting of Stockholders in August, 2021. Common stock outstanding remained unchanged , no additional shares were registered for sale and the company Board of Directors, management, business or operations remain unchanged, as a result of the Reincorporation. (Source: Aemetis, Website PR, 6 Dec., 2021) Contact: Aemetis, Eric McAfee, CEO,emcafee@aemetis.com, Andy Foster, (408) 213-0940, Fax: (408) 252-8044, www.aemetis.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis,  Renewable Diesel,  SAF,  

oneworld Alliance , Aemetis
Date: 2021-12-03
The New York, New York-headquartered oneworld Alliance of airlines reports its member air carriers plan to purchase more than 350 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) over seven years beginning in 2024 from Cupertino, California-based Aemetis.

The SAF will be produced at the Aemetis Carbon Zero plant currently under development in Riverbank, California. The facility will use waste wood to produce cellulosic hydrogen, which is then combined with wastes and non-edible sustainable oils and zero carbon intensity hydroelectric electricity to produce sustainable aviation fuel.

oneworld members include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, Qantas and Qatar Airways. (Source: oneworld Alliance, Website, PR, 30 Nov., 2021) Contact: oneworld Alliance, www.oneworld.com; Aemetis, Andy Foster, (408) 213-0940, Fax: (408) 252-8044, www.aemetis.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis,  Renewable Diesel,  SAF,  

Cresta Fund Management
Date: 2021-12-01
Dallas, Texas-headquartered private equity firm Cresta Fund Management is reporting acquisition of a controlling stake in North Atlantic Refining Ltd.'s idled 135,000-bpd refinery in Come-by-Chance, Newfoundland, Canada.

The refinery, which will be renamed Braya Renewable Fuels, will be converted to initially produce 14,000 bpd of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel (RD) beginning in mid-2022 and possibly green hydrogen at a later date, according to the company. (Source: Cresta Fund Management, PR, Reuters, 30 Nov., 2021) Contact: Cresta Fund Management, 214.310.1083, www.crestafunds.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News SAF,  Renewable Diesel,  Green Hydrogen,  

Green Plains, Fagem
Date: 2021-11-26
In the Cornhusker State, Omaha-based biorefiner Green Plains Inc. reports its wholly-owned subsidiary Green Plains Obion LLC in Rives, Tennessee has broken ground on the fifth Green Plains location to install Fluid Quip Technologies' MSC™ technology. The project is slated for completion in 2022 with Granite Falls, Minnesota-based Fagen Inc. as EPC general contractor.

At full scale, Green Plains Obion anticipates Ultra-High Protein production at approximately 600,000 tpy and renewable corn oil capacity of approximately 400 million tpy. Renewable corn oil is a highly sought-after low-carbon intensity feedstock for the rapidly expanding renewable diesel market.

According to its website, "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." (Source: Green Plains Inc, Website PR, 23 Nov., 2021) Contact: Green Plains Inc., Todd Becker, CEO, Phil Boggs, Exec. VP, Investor Relations , 402.884.8700, , phil.boggs@gpreinc.com, www.gpreinc.com; Fluid Quip, 319-320-7709, www.fluidquiptechnologies.com; Fagen, www.fageninc.com

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

Aemetis
Date: 2021-11-26
Cupertino, California-based renewable fuels specialist Aemetis, Inc. reports it has signed a non-binding term sheet and is working towards completing $100 million of new debt financing from Toronto-based Third Eye Capital. The debt financing is expected to be comprised of $50 million for carbon reduction projects and $50 million for working capital.

The new, lower interest rate debt financing is expected to fund Aemetis initiatives that reduce the carbon intensity of renewable fuels (sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel), carbon sequestration, and upgrades to the Keyes, California, ethanol plant.

Cash and grants of more than $32 million have already been invested in the Aemetis Phase I, 45 million gpy carbon -zero renewable jet and diesel plant in Riverbank, California.

A $125 million USDA 9003 Biorefinery Assistance Program guaranteed loan has been signed by Aemetis and an additional $100 million under the USDA Renewable Energy for America Program is in process, according to the release. (Source: Aemetis, PR, 23 Nov., 2021) Contact: Aemetis, Andy Foster, (408) 213-0940, Fax: (408) 252-8044, www.aemetis.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis,  Renewable Diesel,  SAF,  

Viridos, ExxonMobil
Date: 2021-11-24
La Jolla, California based Viridos Inc. -- fka Synthetic Genomics -- is reporting an agreement with Clinton, New Jersey -headquartered ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company with the intent to bring Viridos' low-carbon intensity biofuels toward commercial levels. According to the release, "recent productivity advances in Viridos' technology are an opportunity to turn CO2 into renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), providing an essential component for the decarbonization of the heavy-duty transportation industry."

Founded in 2005 by leaders in synthetic biology, Viridos is a powerhouse for innovative research, transplanting the first genome, synthesizing the first bacterial genome and creating the first synthetic cell. In the past few years Viridos' leadership in engineering microalgae has achieved greater than 5x bio-oil productivity increases by increasing both the oil content in the algae and the algae yield. The results from outdoor deployment of Viridos' bio-engineered strains in 2020 and 2021 mark the inflection point toward deployment," according to the release.

Viridos is a privately held biotechnology company harnessing the power of photosynthesis to create transformative solutions to mitigate climate change. Our unparalleled understanding of algal genetics and ability to translate innovation from lab to field underpins our initial deployment: a scalable platform to produce low-carbon intensity biofuels for aviation, commercial trucking, and maritime shipping, according to the Viridos website. (Source: Viridos, Website PR, 19 Nov., 2021) Contact: Viridos. Dr. Oliver Fetzer, CEO, 858.754.2900, www.viridos.com; ExxonMobil Research and Engineering, Vijay Swarup, VP, R&D, 908-735-7102, www.corporate.exxonmobil.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Synthetic Genomics ,  microalgae,  Viridos,  ExxonMobil ,  Algae Biofuel,  Biofuel,  

Renewable Energy Group Inc.
Date: 2021-11-15
San Mateo, California-based Booster , the tech-enabled energy delivery service, and low-carbon fuels producer Renewable Energy Group Inc. (REGI) are reporting a partnership to provide mobile delivery of renewable diesel, biodiesel, and blended fuels to fleets. The service started in California in August and has the potential to grow nationally.

As part of the partnership, REGI has invested in Booster and will be an exclusive supplier of bio-based diesel to Booster. Booster will also be an exclusive mobile fueler to REG and will partner with REG to explore expansion opportunities. (Source: REGI, PR, 10 Nov., 2021) Contact: Booster, Frank MYcropft, CEO, 888.938.3563 , www. boosterusa.com; REGI, Bob Kenyan, Snr. VP Sales & Marketing, C.J. Warner, Pres., CEO, (515) 239-8000, www.regi.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Energy Group Inc.,  REGI,  Renewable Fuel,  Biodiesel,  Renewable Diesel,  

Evolve Transition, HOBO
Date: 2021-11-12
Houston-headquartered Evolve Transition Infrastructure LP is reporting an agreement with renewable diesel specialist Heating Oil to Bean Oil (HOBO) for construction of a new 120 million gpy renewable fuels facility expected to be fully operational in Q4, 2023.

Evolve will fund the project and other future renewable fuels projects that can produce renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The deal is subject to certain conditions, including HOBO securing a long-term offtake agreement for the fuels project.

HOBO Renewable Diesel uses Haldor Topsoe's Hydroflex technology to produce fuels that meet and surpass current Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ASTM D-975) specifications, according to the release. (Source: Evolve Transition Infrastructure LP, PR, 11 Nov., 2021) Contact: Evolve Transition Infrastructure, www.evolvetransition.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Evolve Transition,  HOBO,  Renewable Diesel ,  Renewable Diesel,  

Department for Transport, LanzaTech
Date: 2021-11-08
In London, the UK Department for Transport's Green Fuels, Green Skies (GFGS) competition reports it has awarded Project Speedbird, a partnership between UK-based Nova Pangaea Technologies, British Airways, and LanzaJet, £484,000 ($653,302 US) in funding for a feasibility study for the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using an integrated technology platform based on Nova Pangaea’s REFNOVA® process.

Project Speedbird will begin early-stage development of the UK's first integrated SAF production facility utilizing woody biomass/wood waste and support UK SAF sector growth by deploying innovative production technologies at a commercial scale. Starting in 2025, Project Speedbird will begin to recycle carbon from UK wood waste into 113 million lpy of SAF and renewable diesel (RD), sufficient fuel for 2,000 British Airways' flights from London to New York. (Source: UK Department for Transport, Nov., 2021) Contact: Nova Pangaea Technologies, +44 1642 440926, www.novapangaea.com; UK Department for Transport, twitter.com/transportgovuk; LanzaTech, Dr. Jennifer Holmgren, CEO, (630) 439-3050, jennifer@lanzatech.com, www.lanzatech.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News UK Department for Transport,  LanzaTech,  SAF,  Woody Biomass,  

John Wood Group
Date: 2021-11-03
Aberdeen, Scotland-headquartered Wood Plc -- fka John Wood Group PLC -- reports it is advancing an engineering, procurement, and construction management services contract with Ames, Iowa-based Renewable Energy Group Inc. (REGI) that will expand REGI's renewable diesel biorefinery in Geismar, Louisiana.

The project will increase the biorefinery's production capacity from 90 million to 340 million gpy, enhance existing operations, and improve operational reliability and logistics.

Renewable Energy Group Inc. is one of the leading producers of renewable diesel in the US. In addition to the Geismar renewable diesel plant, REGI operates biodiesel plants in the US and in Germany. (Source: Wood, Website PR, 2 Nov., 2021) Contact: Wood Americas, Steve Conway, Snr. VP, +44 1224 851000, www.woodplc.com; REGI, Katie Stanley, (515) 979-3771, katie.stanley@regi.com, www.regi.com

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

Neste
Date: 2021-11-01
Helsinki-headquartered Neste reports it has two existing and ambitious climate commitments: reaching carbon neutral production (Scope 1 & 2) by 2035 and helping its customers reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20 million tpy of CO2e by 2030. Neste is now aiming to reduce Scope 3 emissions by 50 pct by 2040 compared to 2020 levels.

Neste aims to meet its climate objectives by increasing the share of renewable and circular solutions as well as working with suppliers and partners to reduce emissions across the company's value chain. As a concrete example of reducing the Scope 3 emissions, in 2020 the majority of Neste's product distribution logistics in Finland used Neste MY Renewable Diesel™ and in 2021, will run almost entirely on renewable diesel.

According to the release, Neste will sign the Business Ambition for 1.5 degree C Commitment Letter and will continue to build on its climate actions to keep them inline with the Paris Climate Accord 1.5 degrees C emission scenarios and recommendations of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). (Source: Neste Corp., PR, Website, 27 Oct. 2021) Contact: Neste Corp., Peter Vanacker, Pres., and CEO, Susanna Sieppi, VP Communications, +358 50 458 5076, media@neste.com, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News GHGs,  SBTi,  Paris Climate Agreement,  Neste,  Renewable Diesel,  Carbon Emissions,  

Aemetis
Date: 2021-11-01
In the Golden State, Cupertino-based renewable natural gas (RNG) and renewable fuels company Aemetis, Inc. reports it has contracted with Houston, Texas-based engineering and construction firm CTCI America to conduct permitting and engineering work for a carbon zero renewable jet/diesel plant to be built in Riverbank, California.

The Aemetis Carbon Zero plant will use waste wood/woody biomass to produce cellulosic hydrogen with a below zero carbon intensity, which is combined with renewable oils and zero carbon intensity hydroelectric electricity to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel. The plant will have an initial capacity of 45 million gpy, with engineering and other development work underway for expansion to 90 million gpy. (Source: Aemetis, PR, 28 Oct., 2021) Contact: CTCI America, 281-870-9998, www.americas.ctci.com; Aemetis, Andy Foster, (408) 213-0940, Fax: (408) 252-8044, www.aemetis.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis,  Renewable Diesel,  SAF,  

Orbex
Date: 2021-10-29
UK-headquartered Orbex is reporting its new Orbex Prime space rocket is poised to become the first in a new generation of ultra green launch systems, using renewable, ultra-low-carbon BioLPG sourced from Calor, the U.K.'s leading BioLPG supplier.

BioLPG is a by-product from the waste and residual material from renewable diesel production. The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) factor for BioLPG is 90 pct lower than a fossil-based fuel such as RP-1, the highly-refined form of Kerosene typically used as rocket fuel, according to the release.

Orbex is also committing to offsetting all emissions from the rocket and its launch operations, ensuring every launch is carbon neutral. Orbex plans to launch Prime from Space Hub Sutherland, the carbon-neutral Spaceport in the North of Scotland. (Source: Orbex, 25 Oct., 2021) Contact: Orbex, Chris Larmour, CEO , contact@orbec.space, www.orbex.space; Calor, www.calor.co.uk

More Low-Carbon Energy News BioLPG,  Biofuel,  

Renewable Energy Group
Date: 2021-10-22
In the Hawkeye State, Ames-headquartered Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (REGI) reports the expansion and upgrading of its renewable diesel (RD) plant in Geismar, Louisiana, is underway.

The project will increase the site's production capacity from 90 million gpy to 340 million gpy. The expansion and upgrade is expected to come in at $950 million and to be mechanically complete by 2023 with full operability in 2024.

With the plant improvements, the Geismar plant will reduce CO2 emissions by up to 2.8 million metric tpy -- equivalent to greenhouse gas emissions from 7.1 billion miles driven by an average passenger vehicle, according to the release. (Source: REGI, Website PR, 14 Oct., 2021) Contact: REGI, Katie Stanley, (515) 979-3771, katie.stanley@regi.com, www.regi.com

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

Neste
Date: 2021-10-20
Helsinki-headquartered renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) producer Neste reports it and Finnish restaurant chain Hesburger have agreed to "engage in a significant circular economy collaboration."

Under the agreement, Neste will recycle used cooking oil from more than 300 Hesburger restaurants in Finland and in the Baltic states to produce renewable diesel. As a result of the collaboration, Hesburger will begin using Neste MY Renewable Diesel™ in the majority of its transport vehicle fleet, reducing the greenhouse gas emissions in these transports by up to 90 pct compared to fossil diesel use, according to the release. (Source: Neste, Website PR, 18 Oct., 2021) Contact: Nesburger, www.hesburger.com; Neste, Thorsten Lange, Exec. VP, Heidi Peltonen, Team Lead, Sustainable Partnerships, Marketing & Services, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Renewable Diesel,  

Renewable Energy Group
Date: 2021-10-18
In the Hawkeye State, Ames-based biofuels producer Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (REGI) and the Iowa State University (ISU) Bioeconomy Institute are reporting the start-up of a new hydrotreater pilot plant at the ISU BioCentury Research Farm (BCRF) in Boone, Iowa.

The ISU BCRF is an integrated research and demonstration facility dedicated to biomass production and processing. This hydrotreater pilot plant will utilize the expertise of both organizations to better understand how various biomass feedstocks can play a role in the production of renewable fuels with a specific focus on renewable diesel.

The pilot plant is a multi-reactor state-of-the-art research and development unit designed by REGI's engineering teams to accelerate the development of new feedstocks and processes. The system is fully automated and configured to run safely and reliably for weeks at a time, according to the release. (Source: REGI, PR, Oct., 2021) Contact: ISU BioCentury Research Farm , 515-296-6300, www.biocenturyresearchfarm.iastate.edu; REGI, Cynthia Warner, CEO, Katie Stanley, 515-239-8184, katie.stanley@regi.com, www.regi.com

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

Neste
Date: 2021-10-13
Reporting from Helsinki, following the July launch of Neste MY Renewable Diesel™ on the Belgian market Neste has entered a partnership with Q8 to offer the product on seven Q8 stations this year.

Neste MY Renewable Diesel is a premium diesel made entirely from renewable raw materials. It helps reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 90 pct when emissions over the fuel's life cycle are compared with fossil diesel. The renewable diesel is a 'drop-in' fuel, fully compatible with all diesel engines, not requiring any modifications to the existing vehicles or fuel distribution infrastructures.

With over 465 fueling stations, Q8 is one Belgium's largest fuel suppliers and marketers. (Source: Neste. Website PR, Oct., 2021) Contact: Neste, Jeremy Baines, Pres., Neste U.S., +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Renewable Diesel,  

Honeywell, Honeywell UOP
Date: 2021-09-24
Honeywell is reporting the Honeywell UOP Ecofining process technology converts waste oils, fats, and greases into Honeywell Green Jet Fuel™, a drop-in replacement for jet fuel. When using a feedstock such as used cooking oils, lifecycle GHG emissions can be reduced by 80 pct at this stage compared to conventional petroleum jet fuel.

As the next step in enhancing the Ecofining process technology offering, Wood plc's technology will be integrated to use the byproducts of the UOP Ecofining process technology to produce renewable hydrogen, reducing lifecycle GHG emissions a further 10 pct when compared to the total GHG emissions produced by conventional petroleum jet fuel. The renewable hydrogen is then injected back into the Honeywell Ecofining process to remove feed impurities and create a cleaner burning renewable fuel.

The CO2 generated from the production of the hydrogen can be captured and routed for permanent underground sequestration using the Honeywell H2 Solutions technology suite, further reducing lifecycle GHG emissions an additional 10 pct when compared to the total GHG emissions produced by conventional petroleum jet fuel. The combination of technologies results in an aviation fuel that is effectively carbon neutral compared to petroleum fuels.

The UOP Ecofining process is used in most 100 pct biofeed units producing renewable diesel and all the licensed renewable jet fuel production in the world today. Honeywell UOP currently has licensed 22 Ecofining units in nine countries processing 12 different types of renewable feedstocks.

Wood is a global engineering and consultancy across the built environment and energy sector. The company provides consulting, projects, and operations solutions in more than 60 countries and is a pioneer in hydrogen production technology working with more than 120 hydrogen and synthesis gas plants worldwide. (Source: Honeywell, PR, 23 Sept., 2021) Contact: Honeywell, Honeywell Process Solutions, www.honeywell.com, www.honeywell.com ; Honeywell UOP, www.uop.com /newsroom. Wood Plc, Andy Hemingway, Pres., www.woodplc.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Honeywell,  Honeywell UOP,  ,  SAF,  Sustainable Aviation Fuel,  

LanzaTech, SkyNRG
Date: 2021-09-24
The U.S. DOE Bioenergy Technologies Office announced more than $64 million in funding for 22 projects focused on developing technologies and processes that produce low-cost, low-carbon biofuels. SkyNRG Americas in partnership with LanzaTech was awarded $1 million in funding for Project LOTUS (Landfill Off-gas To Ultra-low carbon intensity SAF) to design, build, operate, and maintain a production facility that will convert raw landfill biogas into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

According to The White House, aviation represents 11 pct of U.S. transportation-related emissions. The goals set by the Administration are ambitious but achievable with the use of SAF. Landfill gas is an abundant source of waste biogenic carbon, typically comprising -- 50 pct bio-based methane (CH4), 40 pct CO2 , and 10 pct nitrogen (N2). Landfill Off-gas To Ultra-low carbon intensity SAF, or Project LOTUS, will be the first to incorporate nearly all the carbon in raw LFG carbon, including the CO2 found in the raw biogas, into drop-in SAF and renewable diesel. Success in this project will materially increase the supply of low carbon intensity, low-cost SAF in the U.S. and enable rapid build-out of new landfill gas to SAF production capacity across the U.S.

The project will leverage green hydrogen and LanzaTech's gas fermentation technology to convert LFG to ethanol at an operating landfill. The ethanol will be converted to SAF using the LanzaJet Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) technology developed by LanzaTech and PNNL. Once the SAF has been produced, SkyNRG Americas has numerous contractual partners including Boeing and Alaska Airlines who are committed to advancing use of the fuel in flight.

Project LOTUS will enable a new domestic, regional supply chain to produce SAF that meets international ASTM specifications while reducing methane emissions and improving air quality. The resultant aviation fuel is high quality, low soot forming, and sustainably derived, reducing up to 110 pct of greenhouse gas emissions over traditional jet fuels. The funding from DOE will accelerate the commercial rollout of this exciting SAF production path from LFG by reducing the technical and financial risks for future integrated commercial plants across the US.

Capturing gas from 35 landfills would produce over 500 million gpy of SAF requiring at least 25 commercial-scale biorefineries, creating good paying jobs and creating a secure domestic SAF market. Further, analysis of the overall biogas resource potential indicates that more than 6 billion gallons of SAF could be produced from 25 pct of the biogas produced at U.S. landfills and from anaerobic digestion of organic wastes and other biogas sources. (Source: LanzaTech, Website PR, 23 Sept., 2021) Contact:LanzaTech, Dr. Jennifer Holmgren, CEO, (630) 439-3050, jennifer@lanzatech.com, www.lanzatech.com; SkyNRG, +31 20 470 70 20, info@skynrg.com, www.skynrg.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News LanzaTech,  SAF,  SkyNRG,  

Shell
Date: 2021-09-22
In the Netherlands, Royal Dutch Shell plc (Shell) is reporting a final investment decision to construct an 820, 000 tpy biofuels facility at the Shell Energy and Chemicals Park Rotterdam, formerly known as the Pernis refinery.

When fully operational the facility will be among the largest in Europe to produce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel (RD).

The facility is expected to incorporate carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology in the manufacturing process and store CO2 in a depleted North Sea gas field through the Porthos project. A final investment decision for Porthos is expected next year. The facility could produce enough renewable diesel to avoid the equivalent CO2 emission of removing 1 million cars from European roads for one year.

As previously reported, the Porthos project, which was established by EBN, Gasunie and the Port of Rotterdam Authority, is anticipated to store more than 37 million tonnes of CO2 over 15 years.

Shell is aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. (Source: Royal Dutch Shell, PR, Hydrocarbon Eng., 21 Sept., 2021) Contact: Royal Dutch Shell, www.shell.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Porthos,  Royal Dutch Shell,  SAF,  Renewable Diesel,  CCS,  

National Bioediesel Board, NBB
Date: 2021-09-15
In Washington, the National Biodiesel Board (NBB) has welcomed the proposed extension through 2031 of the biodiesel and renewable diesel blenders tax credit in the House Ways & Means portion of the Build Back Better Act. The NBB noted:

"Biodiesel and renewable diesel are clean, low-carbon fuels that are widely available today to achieve the carbon reductions Congress is seeking. These fuels are 74 pct less carbon intensive than petroleum diesel on average and have prevented more than 140 million tons of carbon emissions since 2010. Moreover, they substantially cut emissions of particulate matter that impact cancer rates, asthma and other respiratory diseases, which can lower associated healthcare costs. The biodiesel tax credit continues to be extremely successful in expanding consumer access to these clean, low-carbon fuels while driving economic growth and job creation."

The NBB noted the U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel industry supports 65,000 U.S. jobs and more than $17 billion in economic activity each year. Every 100 million gallons of production supports 3,200 jobs and $780 million in economic opportunity. Biodiesel production supports approximately 13 percent of the value of each U.S. bushel of soybeans. (Source: National Biodiesel Board, Website PR, 11 Sept., 2021) Contact: NBB, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, 800) 841-5849, www.nbb.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News Biodiesel Tax Credit,  Renewable Diesel,  National Biodiesel Board,  NBB,  

Neste, Kinder Morgan
Date: 2021-09-15
Helsinki-headquartered Neste reports it is partnering with Texas-based energy infrastructure developer Kinder Morgan, Inc. to support the increased production of renewable diesel (RD), sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable feedstocks such as used cooking oil for polymers and chemicals production.

As part of the initial phases of the project, Kinder Morgan will modify 30 existing storage tanks and piping at its Harvey, Louisiana facility to accommodate segregated storage for a variety of raw material. The project includes the installation of a new boiler for heating tanks and railcars and infrastructure improvements The project, which is supported by a long-term commercial commitment from Neste, is expected to begin operations in Q1, 2023. (Source: Neste Corporation, Website News, 13 September 2021) Contact: Neste, Jeremy Baines, Pres., Neste U.S., +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com; Kinder Morgan, www.kindermorgan.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Kinder Morgan,  Renewable Fuels,  Renewable Diesil,  Biodiesel,  SAF,  

US EIA
Date: 2021-09-10
Recently released data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) notes U.S. biofuel production capacity was slightly lower in June, this year, from 20.792 billion gpy in May to 20.732 billion gpy. Total feedstock consumption was approximately 26.166 billion pounds in June, down from 26.768 billion pounds in May.

Fuel alcohol capacity fell 3 MMgy, from 17.396 billion gallons in May to 17.393 billion gallons in June while biodiesel production capacity held steady at 2.428 billion gpy. Other biofuels -- renewable diesel, renewable heating oil, renewable jet fuel, renewable naphtha, renewable gasoline -- dropped to 911 MMgy in June, down 60 MMgy when compared to the 971 MMgy reported for May.

According to the EIA data, 24.64 billion pounds of corn went to biofuel production in June, down from 25.136 billion pounds in May while grain sorghum feedstock increased from 12 million pounds in May to 36 million pounds in June. The consumption of soybean oil feedstock fell to 663 million pounds, down from 788 million in June. The consumption of corn oil feedstock was also down, at 241 million pounds in June, compared to 257 million pounds in May. Details on Monthly Biofuels Capacity and Feedstocks Update (31 Aug., 2021) HERE (Source: US EIA, Sept., 2021) Contact: US EIA, www.eia.gov

More Low-Carbon Energy News US EIA,  Ethanol Biofuel,  Biodiesel,  Biofuel Feedstock,  

Neste Oyi,Agri Trading
Date: 2021-09-08
Helsinki-headquartered Neste Oyi reports an agreement to acquire 100 pct of Minnesota-based independent renewable waste and residue fat and oil traders Agri Trading and its affiliate entities, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approval.

Together with previously announced acquisitions of IH Demeter, Bunge Loders Croklaan and Count Terminal in the Netherlands, and Mahoney Environmental in the United States, Agri Trading will also enhance Neste's competitiveness in the global waste and residue raw material market, according to the company.

Neste refines waste, residues and innovative raw materials into renewable fuels -- renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) -- and sustainable feedstock for plastics and other materials through its proprietary NEXBTL technology.

As a technologically advanced refiner of high-quality oil products with a commitment to reach carbon-neutral production by 2035, Neste is also introducing renewable and recycled raw materials such as waste plastic as refinery raw materials. In 2020, Neste's revenue stood at €11.8 billion, according to the company website. (Source: Neste Oyi, PR, Website, 7 Sept., 2021) Contact: Neste Oyi, Thorsten Lange, Exec. VP, Heidi Peltonen, Team Lead, Sustainable Partnerships, Marketing & Services, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com; Agri Trading Corp, 800-328-5189, www.agritradingcorp.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste,  Neste Oyi,  SAF,  NEXBTL,  Biofuel,  

Imperial Oil
Date: 2021-09-03
On the Canadian Prairies, Imperial Oil reports it is advancing plans to construct a world-class renewable diesel (RD) complex at its Strathcona refinery near Edmonton, Alberta. This new complex is expected to produce more than 1 billion lpy of renewable diesel from locally sourced and grown feedstocks. The project is expected to realize about 3 million metric tpy in emissions reductions in the Canadian transportation sector. (Source: Imperial Oil, PR 26 Aug., 2021) Contact: Imperial Oil, Brad Corson, Pres., CEO, www.imperialoil.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Imperial Oil,  Renewable Diesel,  

PBF Energy, Honeywell UOP
Date: 2021-09-01
Further to our 13 August coverage, Des Plaines, Illinois-based Honeywell is reporting independent transportation fuel refiner and supplier PBF Energy has selected Honeywell Ecofining™ technology for a potential renewable diesel(RD) project at its Chalmette Refinery in Louisiana. PBF is currently evaluating the conversion of an idle hydrocracking unit at the plant to a single-stage Ecofining unit that if constructed would produce 20,000 bpd of renewable diesel (RD) fuel. A final investment decision by PBF is expected in the coming months.

Honeywell's single-stage Ecofining process is a fast-to-market, capital efficient solution ideal for repurposing underutilized hydroprocessing units to produce higher yields of renewable diesel fuel than other single-stage technologies, according to Honeywell. The process produces Honeywell Green Diesel™ fuel, which is chemically identical to petroleum-based diesel.

The UOP and Eni SpA jointly developed the Ecofining process which uses a combination of catalysts in a single operating environment to remove oxygenates and other contaminants from the feedstock, and then isomerize the feed to improve its cold-flow properties. Due to its simplified design, single-stage Ecofining technology can be put into service quickly, with lower capital expense than other designs, according to the release.

PBF Energy -- a major independent petroleum refiners and suppliers of unbranded transportation fuels -- has refining operations in California, Delaware, Louisiana, New Jersey and Ohio. (Source: Honeywell UOP, Website PR, Aug., 2021) Contact: Honeywell, www.honeywell.com, www.honeywellprocess.com; Honeywell UOP, www.uop.com; PBF Energy, Steven Krynski, Chalmette Refinery Manager, 973.455.7500, www.pbfenergy.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Honeywell Green Diesel,  Renewable Diesel,  PBF Energy,  Honeywell UOP,  

Neste
Date: 2021-09-01
Helsinki-headquartered Neste Oy is the first company in Finland to provide a service for companies and other organizations to monitor their climate emissions caused by the use of transport fuels. Road transport accounts for more than 90 pct of Finland's total transport emissions.

Neste's new digital service helps companies monitor their consumption of Neste transport fuels, the resulting greenhouse gas emissions, and emissions reductions achieved through the use of renewable diesel over a specific time period. The service uses graphs and maps to illustrate the geographic and chronological distribution of consumption and emissions, and provides benchmarking data on each company's road transport emissions in their respective sector.

A recent Neste industry survey found that the use of renewable diesel in the public sector has more than tripled from 2019 to mid-2021 when the total annual consumption of diesel is considered. At the same time, the proportion of renewable diesel from the total consumption of diesel has doubled in the manufacturing industry and increased by more than five-fold in the goods transport, according to Neste. (Source: Neste Oyi, Website PR, 31 Aug., 2021) Contact: Neste Oyi, Thorsten Lange, Exec. VP, Heidi Peltonen, Team Lead, Sustainable Partnerships, Marketing & Services, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Transportation Emissions,  Neste,  Renewable Diesel,  

Calumet,Haldor Topsoe
Date: 2021-09-01
Further to our 19th Feb. report, Indianapolis-headquartered Calumet Specialty Products Partners LP is reporting the selection of Haldor Topsoe's HydroFlex solution to produce 12,000 bpd of renewable diesel (RD) at its revamped plant in Great Falls, Montana, in 2022.

Calumet Specialty Products Partners, L.P. specializes in naphthenic and paraffinic oils as well as aliphatic solvents and paraffin waxes production.

Topsoe's HydroFlex is the industry-leading technology for production of renewable jet (SAF) and diesel provides lower CAPEX, lower OPEX, lower carbon intensity (CI) score, better diesel yield, and can be deployed in both grassroots units and revamps for co-processing or stand-alone applications, according to the company. (Source: Calumet, PR, Biofuels News, 31 Aug., 2021) Contact: Calumet Specialty Products, Bruce Flemming, VP, (317) 328-5660, www.calumetspecialty.com; Haldor Topsoe, Henrik Rasmussen, Americas Managing Dir., +45 27 77 99 68, www.topsoe.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Haldor Topsoe,  Calumet,  SAF Jet Fuel,  Renewable Diesel,  

Imperial Oil
Date: 2021-08-27
Imperial Oil reports it plan to build a 1 billion lpy renewable diesel (RD) from locally sourced and grown feedstocks, manufacturing facility at its Strathcona refinery near Edmonton, Alberta. RD production will source blue hydrogen -- produced from natural gas with CCS -- to substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions relative to conventional hydrogen. The blue hydrogen and bio-feedstock will be combined with a proprietary catalyst to produce premium low-carbon diesel fuel..

A final investment decision will be subject to government support and approvals, market conditions, economic competitiveness and other considerations, Imperial noted. Subject to final investment decision, the facility could start production in 2024 (Source: Imperial Oil, PR, 25 Aug., 2021) Contact: Imperial Oil, Brad Corson, Pres., CEO, www.imperialoil.ca

More Low-Carbon Energy News Imperial Oil,  Renewable Diesel,  

ADM, Marathon Petroleum,Cargill
Date: 2021-08-25
Further to our 28 May coverage, Chicago-based Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) reports demolition is underway on a portion of the former Cargill Malting Plant in Spiritwood, North Dakota. The repurposed site will host a new ADM, 150,000 bushel per day soybean processing / crushing plant operated as a joint venture to produce renewable diesel (RD) fuel. Construction is slated to get underway later this year, according to ADM.

ADM will own 75 pct of the planned $350 million plant while Marathon will hold 25 pct. The Spiritwood plant will process locally-sourced soybeans into about 600 million ppy of refined soybean oil to be processed into roughly 75 million gpy of renewable diesel(RD) at Marathon's Dickinson, North Dakota refinery, according to the ADM release. (Source: ADM, PR, Website, Grand Falls Herald, 22 Aug., 2021)Contact: Marathon Petroleum Corp., 419.422.2121, www.marathonpetroleum.com; ADM, www.adm.com; Cargill, David MacLennan, CEO, Frank van Lierde, Exec. VP, www.cargill.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Archer Daniels Midland ,  Marathon Petroleum,  Cargill,  Renewable Diesel,  Soybean Oil,  

ADM, Marathon Petroleum
Date: 2021-08-20
Findly, Ohio-headquartered Marathon Petroleum Corp. and Chicago-based Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) are reporting an agreement to form a joint venture for the production of soybean oil to supply rapidly growing demand for renewable diesel (RD) fuel..

Under the terms of the agreement, the joint venture will own and operate ADM's previously reported soybean processing facility in Spiritwood, North Dakota, with ADM owning 75 pct of the joint venture and MPC holding the balance. When complete in 2023, the Spiritwood facility will source and process local soybeans and supply the resulting soybean oil exclusively to MPC.

The Spiritwood complex is expected to produce approximately 600 million ppy of refined soybean oil -- sufficient feedstock for approximately 75 million gpy of renewable diesel.

In addition to the Spiritwood joint venture, the companies anticipate working together to explore other opportunities for agriculture to support renewable transportation fuels, according to the release. (Source: ADM, Website PR, 19 Aug., 2021) Contact: Marathon, www.marathonpetroleum.com; ADM, www.adm.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Archer Daniels Midland,  ADM,  Marathon Petroleum,  Soybean Oil,  Renewable Diesel,  

Phillips 66
Date: 2021-08-13
Houston-headquartered petroleum giant Phillips 66 reports its Haldor Topsoe HydroFlex technology equipped refinery in Rodeo, California, has begun renewable diesel production. Subject to permitting and approvals, full conversion of the refinery is expected to be complete in early 2024 when the facility's renewable fuel production capacity to 50,000 bpd.

Combined with its other renewable fuels facilities and projects, Phillips 66 has the potential to supply 1 billion gpy of renewable fuels, according to the release.

Phillips 66 also announced it is converting 600 branded retail sites in California to sell renewable diesel produced at the Rodeo biorefinery. (Source: Phillips 66, Aug., 2021) Contact: Phillips 66, Jeff Dietert , IR, 832-765-2297, jeff.dietert@p66.com, www.p66.com; Haldor Topsoe, +45 27 77 99 68, www.topsoe.com

More Low-Carbon Energy News Haldor Topsoe ,  Phillips 66,  Renewable Diesel,  

PBF Energy
Date: 2021-08-13
Further to our 5th June coverage, Des Plaines, Illinois-based Honeywell reports independent petroleum refiner and transportation fuels supplier PBF Energy Inc. has selected Honeywell Ecofining™ technology for a potential renewable diesel (RD) project at its Chalmette Refinery in Louisiana.

Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey-headquartered PBF is currently evaluating the conversion of an idle hydrocracking unit at the plant to a single-stage Ecofining unit that if constructed would produce 20,000 bpd of renewable diesel fuel. A final investment decision by PBF is expected in the coming months.

Honeywell's single-stage Ecofining process produces Honeywell Green Diesel™ fuel from non-edible natural oils and animal fats. The fuel is chemically identical to petroleum diesel and can be used as a drop-in replacement in vehicles with no engine modifications. (Source: Honeywell UOP, Website PR, Aug., 2021) Contact: Honeywell UOP, www.uop.com, Honeywell, www.honeywell.com; PBF Energy, Steven Krynski, Chalmette Refinery Manager, 973.455.7500 , www.pbfenergy.com

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

National Biodiesel Board,Renewable Fuel Standard
Date: 2021-08-04
In Washington, the National Biodiesel Board (NBB) has launched an ad campaign in Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin calling on Pres. Joe Biden to maintain his commitment to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

"As a candidate last August, Joe Biden called the Renewable Fuel Standard 'our bond with our farmers and our commitment to a thriving rural economy.' But now, there are reports he's considering handouts to oil refiners -- at the expense of biodiesel producers and soybean farmers," the ad notes.

According to the NBB, the U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel industry supports 65,000 US jobs and more than $17 billion in economic activity each year. Every 100 million gallons of production supports 3,200 jobs and $780 million in economic opportunity. Biodiesel production supports approximately 13 pct of the value of each US bushel of soybeans. (Source: NBB, Aug., 2021) Contact: NBB, Kurt Kovarik, VP Federal Affairs, (800) 841-5849, www.nbb.org

More Low-Carbon Energy News National Biodiesel Board,  RFS,  Renewable Fuel Standard,