Using patented technology exclusive to Aemetis for agricultural waste wood feedstock, the Carbon Zero plants are integrated with existing Aemetis production facilities to produce energy dense renewable fuels using renewable energy and below zero carbon intensity waste feedstocks.
The first Carbon Zero production plant -- Carbon Zero 1 -- is planned for Central California on a former Army ammunition production facility. It will extract sugars from waste wood and process the sugar into renewable fuel.
Aemetis' Carbon Zero plants are designed to convert below zero carbon feedstocks (waste wood and agricultural waste) and renewable energy (biogas, RNG, solar) into energy-dense liquid renewable fuels that when used in hybrid electric vehicles or other vehicle engines, will have a "below zero carbon" greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint across the entire lifecycle of the fuel, based on the Argonna National Laboratory"s GREET model, according to the release. (Source: Aemetis, PR, Website, 18 Jan., 2021) Contact: Aemetis, Eric McAfee, CEO , Todd Waltz, (408) 213-0940, emcafee@aemetis.com, www.aemetis.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis , Ethanol, Renewable Fuel,
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,
The company is focused on products for four key markets: Health, Home & Beauty; Food & Beverage; Essential Ingredients; and Renewable Fuels. (Source: Pacific Ethanol, Website PR, 13 Jan., 2021) Contact: Alto Ingredients Inc., Michael Kramer, 916-403-2755, investorrelations@altoingredients.com, www.altoingredients.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Pacific Ethanol,
By April, the low point in both production and consumption of ethanol had fallen by 50 pct from the previous year. Volumes rebounded from that point but never reached "normal" levels. In the first week of December, consumption of both gasoline and ethanol fell to their lowest points since May, according to data from the Energy Information Administration.
The cumulative decline in ethanol production is estimated to have been 2 billion gallons from March to November 2020. The ethanol industry's usage of corn has been reduced by 700 million bushels.
Access the RFA's Impact of COVID-19 on the Ethanol Industry report HERE. (Source: Renewable Fuels Association, High Plains Journal, 27 Dec., 2020) Contact: Renewable Fuels Association, Geoff Cooper, Pres., CEO, (202) 289-3835,www.ethanolrfa.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuels Association, RFA, Ethanol,
"The decrease in ethanol production has idled or permanently closed plants across the heartland and caused job losses in rural communities where good employment is often hard to find.
"As an industry deemed critical and essential to America, we call on Congress to act swiftly to provide some targeted relief to our nation’s renewable fuels industry." -- Geoff Cooper, Pres., CEO, (202) 289-3835,www.ethanolrfa.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuels Association, RFA, Ethanol,
To date, the CEC has funded 45 open retail hydrogen stations with another 16 under construction. With the new $115 million dunding, there could be up to 179 stations in the state, including seven privately funded stations.
The CEC Clean Transportation Program -- aka Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program -- invests up to $100 million annually in a broad portfolio of transportation and fuel transportation projects statewide. The CEC leverages public and private investments to support adoption of cleaner transportation powered by alternative and renewable fuels, according to its website. (Source: California Energy Commission , 21 Dec., 2020) Contact: California Energy Commission
www.energy.ca.gov, CEC Clean Transportation Program, www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/clean-transportation-program
More Low-Carbon Energy News California Energy Commission, Hydrogen ,
The Refining budget includes pre-construction engineering and design costs related to the company's plan to reconfigure its San Francisco Refinery in Rodeo, California, to produce 800 million gpy of renewable fuel, making it one of the world's largest facilities of its kind.
The conversion is expected to reduce the facility's greenhouse gas emissions by 50 pct and help the Golden State meet its low carbon objectives. (Source: Phillips 66, Dec., 2020) Contact: Phillips 66, Jeff Dietert , IR, 832-765-2297, jeff.dietert@p66.com, www.p66.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Phillips 66, Renewable Fuels,
"Unfortunately, changes that were made to CAFE credits, which are Corporate Average Fuel Economy credits that the automakers received for years to make flex fuel vehicles, was changed during the Obama Administration to be phased out for flex fuel vehicles. They really aimed at incentivizing electric vehicles.
"We knew this was coming ... We have seen it in the last few model years, but we are really down to just 11 models of flex fuel vehicles coming from just Ford and General Motors. That's a strong dive from where we once were at 80 different models across eight manufacturers.
"We're sure doing all we can to reverse that trend. There were some recent comments to the federal government on how to incentivize the return of those vehicles. I also think there is just genuine consumer interest. The automakers are no doubt hearing from more people. We have record people converting their vehicles to make them flex fuel now than we have ever seen. It's an astonishing new market."
According to the RDA, only 11 flex fuel models will be on the market in 2021 with five of those models available only to fleet purchasers. (Source: RFA, Iowa Agribusiness Radio, 9 Dec., 2020) Contact: Renewable Fuels Association, Robert White, (202) 289-3835, www.ethanolrfa.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel Blend, Renewable Fuels Association, Flex Fuel, Biofuel,
At the beginning of 2021, the Finnish government bio mandate for renewable fuels will be extended to fuel oil. The mandate is intended to promote the use of biofuel oil to replace light fuel oil in heavy equipment, stationary motors and heating to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support Finland's and the EU's climate goals. (Source: Neste, PR, All Things Arb, 10 Dec., 2020)Contact: Neste Corp., Thorsten Lange, Exec. VP, +358 10 458 4128, www.neste.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Neste, Biofuel, Biodiesel,
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,
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,
The program offers relief funds to help gas stations, truck stops, co-ops, and other renewable fuels retailers recover from the business disruptions and lost demand caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the release.
Iowa is home to 43 ethanol refineries totaling 4.5 billion gpy capacity and 11 biodiesel facilities totaling 400 million gpy capacity, according to the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association.
(Source: Iowa Dept. of Agriculture, PR, Dec., 2020) Contact: Iowa Dept. of Agriculture, Mike Naig, www.iowaagriculture.gov/grants
More Low-Carbon Energy News Renewable Fuel, Ethanol, Biodiesel, Iowa Biofuel,
"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 ,
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 ,
Aemetis Inc. owns and operates a 65 million gpy ethanol production facility near Modesto, California and owns and operates a 50 million gpy renewable chemical and advanced fuel production facility on the East Coast of India producing high quality distilled biodiesel and refined glycerin.
As we reported on 24 Aug., Aemetis is also building a biogas anaerobic digester network and pipeline to convert dairy animal waste gas to Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) and is developing a plant to convert waste orchard wood into cellulosic ethanol.
Aemetis holds a portfolio of patents and related technology licenses for the production of renewable fuels and biochemicals, according to a release. (Source: Aemetis Inc., Street Insider, 23 Nov., 2020)
Contact: Aemetis, Eric McAfee, CEO , Todd Waltz, (408) 213-0940, emcafee@aemetis.com, www.aemetis.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Aemetis , Ethanol, RNG,
The utility recently began purchasing RNG from Pixley-based Calgren Dairy Fuels (Calgren), the largest dairy biogas operation in the U.S.
To encourage the growth and use of RNG, SoCalGas has also proposed offering customers the option to purchase a portion of their natural gas from renewable sources. Additionally, California recently enacted legislation that expands the definition of renewable natural gas to include organic waste such as dead trees, agricultural waste and vegetation removed for wildfire mitigation which is typically converted to RNG by non-combustion thermal conversion.
In the next three and a half years, at least 160 RNG production facilities will produce more than 15.8 million therms of carbon-negative RNG every year and replace about 119 million gallons of diesel fuel -- enough to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 3.4 million tpy -- equivalent of taking more than 730,000 cars off the road.
A 2016 study by the University of California, Davis found California has the potential to produce approximately 90.6 billion cubic feet (bcf) per year of renewable natural gas from dairy, landfill, municipal solid waste, and wastewater treatment plant sources alone -- sufficient to meet the annual natural gas needs of around 2.3 million California homes. According to the U.S. DOE the U.S. currently produces 1 trillion cubic feet of renewable natural gas every year, and that number is expected to increase to 10 trillion by 2030. (Source: SoCalGas, PR, 17 Nov., 2020)
Contact: SoCalGas, Jeff Walker, VP Customer Solutions, www.socalgas.com;
Calgren Renewable Fuels, Walt Dwelle, Principal Owner , Lyle Schlyer, Pres., (559) 757-3850, lschyler@calgren.com, www.calgren.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News RNG, SoCalGas, Calgren,
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,
The plant conversion is part of a larger project that intends to convert the existing plant for the large-scale production of renewable fuels. To begin with, five pct rapeseed oil will be combined with the fossil raw material for a limited period. This test process is within the conditions of the existing environmental permit and represents an important basis for the refinery's conversion.
The increased renewable production will play an important role in ensuring Sweden achieves its climate targets. The conversion is estimated to reduce emissions in the entire value chain by between 1.2 and 1.7 million tpy of CO2 of which the largest reduction will take place in road traffic. At the same time, renewable fuel production will be accommodated within existing carbon dioxide emissions from the refinery. The plant is expected to be operational by 2024 at the latest, according to the release.
(Source: PREEM, PR, 11 Nov., 2020) Contact: PREEM, Petter Holland, CEO, Pres., +46 (0) 10 459 1000, www.preem.se/en/in-english
More Low-Carbon Energy News Preem, Renewable Fuel,
Honeywell Green Diesel can be used as a drop-in replacement in diesel-powered vehicles with no engine modifications, and features up to an 80 pct lifecycle reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared with diesel from petroleum.
Diamond Green Diesel is owned by Valero Energy Corp. and Darling Ingredients Inc.(Source: Diamond Green Diesel, PR, GreenCar Congress, 2 Nov., 2020) Contact: Darling Ingredients, Melissa A. Gaither, VP IR , (972) 281-4478, mgaither@darlingii.com, www.darlingii.com; Diamond Green Diesel, sales@diamondgreendiesel.com, www.diamondgreendiesel.com; Valero Renewable Fuels, Joe Gorder, Pres., (800) 324-8464, www.valero.com;
Honeywell UOP, Rebecca Liebert, Pres.,CEO, www.uop.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News UOP Honeywell, Diamond Green Diesel,
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,
Electrification is important, but it requires extensive infrastructure expansion. This is expensive and will take decades, and until that expansion is complete, little benefit is achieved in reducing climate change or improving air quality in the front-line communities that are harmed most by pollution. We cannot wait that long.
"We believe the solution is our technology allows climate-friendly, renewable, decarbonized fuels to be used at the highest possible efficiency. Our technology can be adopted quickly. It uses existing liquid refueling infrastructure, and operators get the performance they expect while also relying on the existing base of engine technicians for service. Our solution provides "near-zero" emissions that are an order of magnitude better than even the cleanest diesel-fueled engines and is the fastest way for reducing CO2 emissions from heavy-duty engines. "Low carbon, renewable fuels are generally characterized as low in reactivity as measured by cetane number. These alternative fuels have historically required use of spark-ignited engines which have lower efficiency and are bore-size limited compared to compression ignition (Diesel) engines. These fuels were thought to be incompatible with compression ignition engines which traditionally require easily ignitable fuels.
ClearFlame uses a high-temperature combustion system that overcomes cetane limitations. We are using insulation strategies and calibration changes like reduced charge air cooling and increased EGR to increase combustion temperatures just enough so that lower cetane fuels like alcohols will ignite reliably with short ignition delays. There is no fuel blending, no spark plugs and no petroleum. The ClearFlame combustion process leverages the no/low soot characteristics of alternative bio or e-fuels and produces engine-out exhaust with ultra-low PM levels that does not require a DPF. Further, because the engine is no longer smoke-limited, the air-fuel ratio is changed from lean to stoichiometric using "clean" EGR for dilution at lower loads, improving volumetric efficiency/power density, and leaving an exhaust stream suitable for 3-way catalysis. The SCR after-treatment system can be eliminated in favor of a 3-way catalytic converter allowing a substantial cost reduction and improvement in NOx reduction efficiency. DEF/AdBlue/urea is no longer required and system reliability is improved.
The value added by being able to change fuels is tremendous because a very high efficiency combustion process can now be paired with use of 100 pct renewable, clean fuels providing a combination that surpasses all other alternatives in terms of CO2 mitigation, reduced criteria emissions and lower costs.
ClearFlame Engine Technologies recognizes the importance of developing renewably-fueled combustion-based alternatives that complement electrification enabling sustainability in applications where liquid fuels will remain necessary.
"Technologies that integrate globally deployed, decarbonized fuels with high-efficiency combustion can be implemented faster and at lower cost than even current diesel technology, providing the immediate scalability needed for rapid carbon mitigation. Such solutions can support electrification by providing low-cost range extension power to otherwise electrified drivetrains (e.g. in a series hybrid configuration), relieving the need for complete charging/H2 infrastructure buildout before scalability can be achieved." (Source: Subscriber profile submitted by ClearFlame Engine Technologies, Oct.,2020) Contact: ClearFlame Engine Technologies, John Howell, Bus. Dev., 508-404-9398, JohnH@clearflameengines.com, www.clearflameengines.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News ClearFlame Engine Technologies, Alternative Fuel,
Over the past nine months the company's production mix shifted from approximately 85 pct fuel grade ethanol and 15 pct specialty alcohols to approximately 50 pct each for the three months ended September 30, 2020. Going forward, the company will focus on specialty alcohols and essential ingredients for four key markets: Health, Home & Beauty; Food & Beverage; Essential Ingredients; and Renewable Fuels.
As previously announced, the company idled its Magic Valley, Stockton and Madera fuel-grade ethanol distilleries earlier this year while continuing to operate its Columbia distillery. As part of the company's strategic realignment and new business focus, it intends to sell or repurpose these assets. Asset sale proceed will be used to reduce debt, invest in core operations or general corporate purposes. (Source: Pacific Ethanol, PR, 26 Oct., 2020) Contact: Pacific Ethanol, Inc., Paul Kohler, CEO, (916) 403-2123, info@pacificethanol.com, www.pacificethanol.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ethanol, Pacific Ethanol,
Over the past nine months, the company increased production of specialty alcohols used in consumer products and reduced fuel grade ethanol production. The company's production mix shifted from approximately 85 pct fuel grade ethanol and 15 pct specialty alcohols used in consumer products during 2019, to approximately 50 pct each for the three months ended September 30, 2020. Going forward, the company will focus on specialty alcohols and essential ingredients for four key markets: Health, Home & Beauty; Food & Beverage; Essential Ingredients; and Renewable Fuels, according to the release.
As previously reported, Pacific Ethanol idled its Magic Valley, Stockton and Madera fuel-grade ethanol distilleries earlier this year while continuing to operate its Columbia distillery. As part of the company's strategic realignment and new business focus, the company intends to sell or re-purpose these assets. Any proceeds from the sale of assets will be used to reduce debt, invest in core operations or for general corporate purposes, according to the website release. (Source: Pacific Ethanol, PR, 26 Oct., 2020) Contact: Pacific Ethanol, Inc., Paul Kohler, CEO, (916) 403-2123, info@pacificethanol.com, www.pacificethanol.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Pacific Ethanol, Ethanol,
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,
The first grant is in partnership with the District of Columbia (DC) Department of Public Works and DC Department of Water for the purchase of 24 short-haul utility replacement vehicles equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction.
The Iowa project will replace a multi-purpose vehicle in both Ames and Des-Moines. All replacement vehicles will use Optimus Technologies' Vector system using 100 pct biodiesel supplied by Renewable Energy Group (REGI).
The projects include an educational and outreach component which will be provided by
the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments and Greater Washington Regional Clean Cities Coalition and the Iowa Biodiesel Board and Iowa Renewable Fuels Association. (Source: National Biodiesel Foundation, PR, AgWires, 26 Oct., 2020) Contact: National Biodiesel Foundation, info@biodieselfoundation.org, www.biodieselfoundation.org; REGI, Katie Stanley, (515) 239-8184, Katie.Stanley@regi.com, www.regi.com; Optimus Technologies, Colin Huwyler, CEO, 412.727.8228, www.optimustec.com; Iowa Renewable Fuels AssociationI, Nathan Hohnstein, Policy Director , (515) 252-6249, (515) 225-0781 -- fax, www.iowarfa.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, National Biodiesel Foundation, Biodiesel, B100, REGI, Optimus Technologies,
"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,
"We believe the solution is our technology allows climate-friendly, renewable, decarbonized fuels to be used at the highest possible efficiency. Our technology can be adopted quickly. It uses existing liquid refueling infrastructure, and operators get the performance they expect while also relying on the existing base of engine technicians for service. Our solution provides "near-zero" emissions that are an order of magnitude better than even the cleanest diesel-fueled engines and is the fastest way for reducing CO2 emissions from heavy-duty engines.
"Low carbon, renewable fuels are generally characterized as low in reactivity as measured by cetane number. These alternative fuels have historically required use of spark-ignited engines which have lower efficiency and are bore-size limited compared to compression ignition (Diesel) engines. These fuels were thought to be incompatible with compression ignition engines which traditionally require easily ignitable fuels. ClearFlame uses a high-temperature combustion system that overcomes cetane limitations. We are using insulation strategies and calibration changes like reduced charge air cooling and increased EGR to increase combustion temperatures just enough so that lower cetane fuels like alcohols will ignite reliably with short ignition delays. There is no fuel blending, no spark plugs and no petroleum. The ClearFlame combustion process leverages the no/low soot characteristics of alternative bio or e-fuels and produces engine-out exhaust with ultra-low PM levels that does not require a DPF. Further, because the engine is no longer smoke-limited, the air-fuel ratio is changed from lean to stoichiometric using "clean" EGR for dilution at lower loads, improving volumetric efficiency/power density, and leaving an exhaust stream suitable for 3-way catalysis. The SCR after-treatment system can be eliminated in favor of a 3-way catalytic converter allowing a substantial cost reduction and improvement in NOx reduction efficiency. DEF/AdBlue/urea is no longer required and system reliability is improved. The value added by being able to change fuels is tremendous because a very high efficiency combustion process can now be paired with use of 100 pct renewable, clean fuels providing a combination that surpasses all other alternatives in terms of CO2 mitigation, reduced criteria emissions and lower costs.
ClearFlame Engine Technologies recognizes the importance of developing renewably-fueled combustion-based alternatives that complement electrification enabling sustainability in applications where liquid fuels will remain necessary.
"Technologies that integrate globally deployed, decarbonized fuels with high-efficiency combustion can be implemented faster and at lower cost than even current diesel technology, providing the immediate scalability needed for rapid carbon mitigation. Such solutions can support electrification by providing low-cost range extension power to otherwise electrified drivetrains (e.g. in a series hybrid configuration), relieving the need for complete charging/H2 infrastructure buildout before scalability can be achieved." (Source: Subscriber profile submitted by ClearFlame Engine Technologies, Oct.,2020) Contact: ClearFlame Engine Technologies, John Howell, Bus. Dev., 508-404-9398, JohnH@clearflameengines.com, www.clearflameengines.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News ClearFlame Engine Technologies,
Marathon's renewable fuels projects include ethanol production through a Midwest joint venture, investment in its biofuels subsidiary Virent and the conversion of a refinery in Dickinson, North Dakota, to renewable diesel. (Source: Marathon Petroleum, PR, 7 Oct., 2020) Contact: Marathon Petroleum Corp., 419.422.2121, www.marathonpetroleum.com; Virent Inc., Lee Edawards, CEO, Jeff Moore, Exec. VP, Operations, (608) 663-0228, www.virent.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Marathon Petroleum, Renewable Diesel, Alternative Fuel, Virent ,
"The U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association and the National Corn Growers Association believe the 90-day extension of the TRQ serves neither Brazil's consumers nor the Brazilian government's own decarbonization goals, especially while Brazil's ethanol producers continue to be afforded virtually tariff-free access to the U.S. market. The extension falls during Brazil's annual inter-harvest period when U.S. ethanol exports to Brazil are traditionally low, causing greater uncertainty for U.S. exporters looking to make selling decisions now for the traditionally higher Brazilian demand in the winter months. While the Brazilian ethanol market has not been fully reopened to imports, we appreciate the continued support and efforts of the U.S. government as we use this 90-day period to aggressively pursue an open and mutually beneficial ethanol trading relationship with Brazil.
"The U.S. ethanol industry actively sought, through repeated dialogue with local industry and government, to illustrate the negative impacts of tariffs on Brazilian consumers and the Brazilian government's own decarbonization goals. However, it seems Brazil's government has left its own consumers to pay the price through higher fuel costs once again. While we would have preferred Brazil abandon its ethanol import tariffs entirely and resume its free trade posture on ethanol, which it held for several years before the TRQ, we view its decision to temporarily extend the TRQ on ethanol at the current level as an opportunity to continue discussions toward that end.
"The U.S. ethanol industry remains focused on expanding the global use of low-carbon ethanol, reducing barriers to trade and elevating its prominence in energy discussions. We remain eager to collaborate and cooperate with other nations that share in the vision of a free and open global ethanol market." (Source: U.S. Grains Council Website News, 14 Sept., 2020)
Contact:
USGC, Bryan Jernigan, 202-789-0789, bjernigan@grains.org, www.grains.org; Growth Energy,
Leigh Claffey, lclaffey@growthenergy.org, www.growthenergy.org;
RFA, Ken Colombini, kcolombini@ethanolrfa.org, www.ethanolrfa.org;
NCGA, Liz Friedlander, (202) 326-0644, friedlander@ncga.com, www.ncga.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ethanol Tariff, Growth Energy, RFA, NCGA, USGC,
The president's could be seen as an effort to shore up his support in the Corn Belt states.
As previously noted, "hardship waivers" were intended for refineries producing 75,000 bpd or less and suffered "disproportionate economic hardship" from the costs of RFS compliance. The waiver frees the refineries from an obligation to provide the EPA with biofuels credits proving compliance. Under the now vanquished administrator Greg Pruitt's direction, the EPA handed out 54 exemptions over two years and not a single request for an exemption was denied.Under the U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard, the nation's oil refineries are required to blend billions of gallons of biofuels such as ethanol into the fuel or buy credits from those that do. But the EPA can waive their obligations if they prove compliance would cause them financial distress. (Source: Chronicle Herald, 10 Sept., 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Trump, RFS, Refinery Waivers, Biofuel Blend,
The UK-based RTFA is primarily comprised of greener transportation fuel producers and suppliers and supports rapid action to decarbonise transport through the uptake of low carbon fuels.
BIO is the world's largest trade association representing biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centres and related organisations globally. (Source: Velocys, Sept., 2020)
Contact: Velocys Plc, Henrik Wareborn, CEO, +44 1235 838 621, (713) 275-5840 -- Houston Office, info@velocys.com, [endlink]www.velocys.com[endlink]; BIO,
More Low-Carbon Energy News Velocys, BIO, Biofuel, Velocys, BIO, Biofuel, Low-Carbon Fuel, Biofuel, Ethanol, Biodiesel, Biofuel Blend, Clean Fuel Standard,
Cielo's proprietary catalyst transforms multiple waste streams into renewable diesel and kerosene.
CIELO's patent-pending technology is currently being deployed in the Company's Aldersyde, Alberta Facility, where wood waste is being converted into renewable fuels.
(Source: Cielo, PR, Sept., 2020) Contact: Cielo Waste Solutions, Don Allan, Pres., CEO, 403-348-2972, info@cielows.com,www.cielows.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Cielo, Waste-to-Renewable Fuel,
SMARTFARM teams will work to design and develop systems to quantify feedstock production life cycle GHG emissions at the field level reliably, accurately, and cost-effectively. Selected projects are capable of delivering a positive return on investment when field-level carbon emissions reductions are connected to associated biofuel carbon markets. The program also focuses on potential economic benefits to feedstock producers and future carbon management markets, potentially complementing yield-based revenues with incentives for input efficiency and restorative practices. This focus will also help to lay the groundwork for market structures to shift away from national averages and toward lower uncertainty field-based estimates for incentivizing efficiency and other services.
Working to make the biofuel supply chain carbon-negative through the removal or sequestration of carbon would greatly improve biofuel's economic and environmental benefits. Achieving reductions in carbon emissions also encourages feedstock producers to adopt new technologies and practices to quantify their impact. SMARTFARM teams are working to develop robust quantification methods through these awards so that management practices can be linked to environmental and economic outcomes simultaneously.
Download SMARTFARM projects funding recipients and details HERE (Source: ARPA-E, Website PR, Sept., 2020) Contact: ARPA-E, Lane Genatowski, Dir., www.arpa-e.energy.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News ARPA-E, Biofuel, Renewable Fuels,
As previously reported, NCGA also recently partnered with the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), assisting fuel retailers in applying for the USDA Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP). The $100 million program included $86 million to expand the availability of higher blends of ethanol, like E15 and E85.
NCGA support for this program helped deliver program awareness and technical assistance for applications representing more than 1,100 fuel dispensers across 21 states and 222 locations dispensing more than 250 million gallons of gasoline annually. (Source: NCGA, Sept., 2020) Contact: NCGA, PR, Wayne Fueling Systems, (512) 388-8311, www.wayne.com; National Corn Growers Assoc., Mark Palmer, Renewable Fuels Dir., (636) 733-9004, (636) 733-9005-fax, corninfo@ncga.com, www.ncga.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News National Corn Growers Association, Ethanol Blend, E15, E85 ,
The $100 million is part of Iowa's share of the $2 trillion CARES Act, which Congress approved in March. Of the $100 million allocated the following biofuel related concerns will receive funding:
Producers can apply for IEDA-administered programs at www.iowabusinessrecovery.com beginning today, Aug. 31. Apply for IDALS-administered programs Aug. 24 at www.iowaagriculture.gov/grants. (Source: Office of Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Wallaces Farmer, 31 Aug., 2020) Contact: Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, 515-281-5211, www.governor.iowa.gov/contact
More Low-Carbon Energy News Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Biofuel,
Over the next three year Phillips 66 will idle crude processing at its 120,000 b/d San Francisco refinery and convert units in its Rodeo plant to produce 52,000 b/d of renewable diesel, naphtha and jet fuel starting in early 2024, pending regulatory approval.
(Source: Phillips 66, Argus, 12 Aug., 2020)Contact: Phillips 66, Brian Mandell, VP Marketing, Joe Gannon, 832-765-4547, joe.gannon@p66.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Phillips 66, Renewable Fuels,
Archaea Energy is a private-equity biogas developer aiming to source, build and manage projects for the entirety of an energy project's lifecycle. The company aims to build renewable high BTU projects to power the truck and bus fleets of the US with renewable fuels, according to its website.
(Source: Rumpke Waste & Recycling, Hoosier Times, 13 Aug., 2020)
Contact: Rumpke Waste & Recycling, 800-828-8171, www.rumpke.com;
Archaea Energy, Nick Stork, CEO, info@archaea.energy, www.archaeaenergy.com
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More Low-Carbon Energy News Biogas, Landfill Gas-to-Energy,
As a result of state mandated closures and stay at home orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the biofuels industry has already seen a reduction in demand for corn by over 500 million bushels. As a result, many biofuels plants reduced production to curb losses, while others shut down entirely.
A copy of the letter can be found HERE, (Source: Rep. Collin Peterson, PR, Aug., 2020) Contact: Rep Collin Peterson, (202) 225-2165,
Fax: (202) 225-1593, collinpeterson.house.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News Biofuel, Renewable Fuels,
"As you'll see in this report, the RFS has been a smashing success," said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. "In addition to decreasing reliance on imported petroleum, the RFS has reduced emissions of harmful tailpipe pollutants and greenhouse gases, lowered consumer fuel prices, supported hundreds of thousands of jobs in rural America, and boosted the agricultural economy by adding value to the crops produced by our nation's farmers." The report details how, since 2005:
The report also includes historical perspective from RFA Senior Strategic Advisor Bob Dinneen, who led RFA through this important policy change. "We've probably all seen the Schoolhouse Rock version of 'How a Bill Becomes a Law', Dinneen writes. "It does a great job of explaining the legislative process. But it cannot capture the circuitous adventure and machinations that occur before an idea materializes into legislative language. That is particularly true when it comes to the 2005 Energy Bill and the Renewable Fuel Standard." (Source: RFA, 6 Aug., 2020) Contact: Renewable Fuels Association, (202) 289-3835, www.ethanolrfa.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News RFA, RFS.Ethanol, Renewable Fuels,
Renewable Diesel -- The renewable diesel segment reported $129 million of operating income for the second quarter of 2020 compared to $77 million for the second quarter of 2019. After adjusting for the retroactive blender's tax credit, renewable diesel operating income was $145 million for the second quarter of 2019. Renewable diesel sales volumes averaged 795,000 gpd -- up 26,000 gpd from Q2, 2019.
Ethanol -- The ethanol segment reported $91 million of operating income for the second quarter of 2020, compared to $7 million for the same period in 2019. Excluding the LCM inventory valuation adjustment, the second quarter 2020 adjusted operating loss was $20 million. Ethanol production volumes averaged 2.3 million gpd n the second quarter of 2020 down 2.2 million gpd from the second quarter of 2019. The decrease in adjusted operating income was attributed primarily to lower margins resulting from lower ethanol prices and lower throughput. (Source: Valero, PR, 30 July, 2020) Contact: Valero Renewable Fuels, Joe Gorder, Pres., Homer Bhullar, VP Investor Relations, 210-345-1982, www.valero.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Valero Energy, Renewable Diesel, Ethanol,
"We are grateful Senate leaders have responded to our request for economic relief to biofuel producers in the phase four stimulus, however, Congress gave USDA the flexibility to provide relief for renewable fuel producers in the last package and USDA declined to exercise it. While Senator McConnell's bill is more specific about processors of ag commodities, it still leaves discretion to USDA which has so far failed to use the authority to support our industry.
"As I stated in my recent letter to Senators McConnell and Schumer, direct aid for biofuel producers is long overdue. That is why we support and urged inclusion of the Grassley-Klobuchar bill which makes direct assistance certain. Ethanol producers have acted as an economic bridge for U.S. farmers when they purchased corn before the extent of the pandemic was known. It is only fair to aid the ethanol industry which has fronted cash to farm economies.
"We will continue to urge for more specific language in the final bill. Fortunately, momentum appears to be in our favor since both the House-passed Heroes Act and Senate proposal contain relief provisions. Now we need to ensure the legislative details are correct as there should be no reason direct assistance for ethanol producers doesn't make it in the final phase four bill.
ACE urges grassroots advocates to contact their lawmakers and ask them to include biofuel producer relief in the final coronavirus relief package and to get it done before the August recess." (Source: American Coalition for Ethanol, 29 July, 2020) Contact: American Coalition for Ethanol, Brian Jennings, CEO, (605) 334-3381, www.ethanol.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News American Coalition for Ethanol, Ethanol Biofuel,
To that end, the Institute's Rebuilding a Resilient B.C. action plan recommends:
B.C. positions itself to be a leading supplier of renewable fuels and invest in active (alternative , low-carbon) transportation as well as provide funding for capital and operating costs for transit. It also calls for the province to set a path to become leading producer and consumer of low-carbon and zero-carbon hydrogen.
(Source: Pembina Institute, DCN-JOC News Services July 27, 2020
Contact: Pembina Institute, Stephen Hui, Communications,
778-987-7654., stephenh@pembina.org, www.pembina.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Pembina Institute, Alternative Fuel,
The Nuseed Carinata production system achieves best in class greenhouse gas reduction (GHG), certified by the leading independent globally recognized Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), according to the company website.
Nuseed plans to significantly scale-up production of carinata grain in Argentina over coming seasons, with longer term plans to develop the crop in additional South American markets and other parts of the world.
Carinata mustard is a high-yield oil-seed crop that can be grown on poor quality land at low cost. Additional information on carinata can be found at www. growcarinata.com. (Source: Nuseed Limited, Website, 22 July, 2020) Contact: Nuseed Limited, Brent Javra, Nuseed Global Commercial GM, www. nuseed.com; Saipol, www.groupeavril.com/en/slider/saipol
More Low-Carbon Energy News Carinata, Oil-Seed, Biodiese, Saipol, Renewable Fuel,
"You're looking at a total of about $7 billion in reduced revenues for this year and another $2 billion in 2021." -- Scott Richman, RFA Chief Economist commenting on ethanol industry losses from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Contact: Renewable Fuels Association, Scott Richman, (202) 289-3835, www.ethanolrfa.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ethanol, RFA,
Clariant will provide catalysis expertise to support
Ineratec's gas-to-liquids process that combines hydrogen generated from renewable power, with CO2 to form CO2-neutral synthetic hydrocarbons and fuels. The technology relies on Clariant's catalysts to convert CO2 to valuable chemicals, fuels, and additives --
Clariant's HyProGen® R-70 produces renewable syngas via reverse water-gas-shift -- an essential step in the conversion of 'green hydrogen' and CO2 to 'green fuels' and Clariant's signature methanol catalyst, MegaMax® to generate renewable methanol which can be used as fuel additive, solvent, or as raw material for 'green chemical'.
For the production of renewable synthetic natural gas (SNG), the catalyst METH® 134 supports the efficient hydrogenation of CO2 to methane, according to CLariant. (Source: Clariant News, Website, 8 July, 2020) Contact: Clariant, Stefanie Nehlsen, Global Trade Media Relations, +41 61 469 63 63, www.clariant.com; Ineratec, +49 721 864 84460, www.ineratec.de
More Low-Carbon Energy News Clariant, Syngas, Sustainable Fuel,