The Michigan Soybean Association has joined forces with the Clean Fuels Alliance America and over 70 industry stakeholders to advocate for substantial increases in biomass-based diesel (BBD) and advanced biofuels volumes in the Renewable Fuel Standards (RFS) for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025.
The coalition recently penned a letter addressed to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), urging President Biden to prioritize the enhancement of the proposed volumes. Insufficient market space provided by the current volumes would impede investments in the industry's expansion and hinder its potential contribution to decarbonization efforts.
The coalition emphasizes the significance of establishing an upward trajectory in RFS volumes to support the growth of domestically produced, low-carbon advanced biofuels. Leading industry associations, including the American Soybean Association, Diesel Technology Forum, and National Energy and Fuels Institute, have joined Clean Fuels Alliance America in signing the letter.
With the current industry growth, the coalition has requested an annual increase of 500 million gallons in biomass-based diesel volumes. This request, they argue, is conservative given the industry's recent advancements and production capacity.
The coalition highlights the substantial investments made by their members, agricultural partners, and fuel users, which have already yielded positive results. During the initial months of 2023, biodiesel and renewable diesel production increased by over 200 million gallons.
Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs with Clean Fuels Alliance America, emphasizes the need for the EPA to fulfill its commitment to increasing RFS volumes. Establishing appropriate volumes will not only support the industry's growth but also bring significant economic benefits.
The coalition remains optimistic that their collective efforts, along with other stakeholders, will resonate with President Biden and encourage the EPA to support the growth of homegrown, low-carbon, and advanced biofuels through increased RFS volumes.
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Categories: Michigan, Energy