February 18, 2021
BY Erin Krueger
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Feb. 17 proposed to accelerate the expiration of remaining sales tax exemptions for biodiesel as part of his fiscal year 2022 budget proposal. The Illinois Soybean Growers Association is speaking out against the proposal.
Information released by Pritzker states that accelerating the expiration of the sales tax exemptions for biodiesel will increase the state general funds revenues by an estimated $107 million.
Advertisement
Advertisement
According to the ISA, Illinois uses 180 million gallons of biodiesel each year, returning an estimated value of $600 million to the state’s family farms annually. Since 2003, Illinois has been using B11 and higher biodiesel blends, supported by the exemption of those fuels from state sales tax.
“As a farmer who understands that there are markets around the world for my crop, I am always reminded of the value that biodiesel has right here at home,” said Doug Schroeder, ISG chairman and a soybean farmer from Mahomet, Illinois. “Biodiesel adds value to my farm, my community, and my state. This last year and COVID-19 have put extra attention on air quality for all Illinoisans. Sustaining our use of B11 at a minimum and moving to B20 and higher biodiesel blends helps in promoting an Illinois product, all while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. I look forward to continuing the conversation, and working with all partners to use more biodiesel to improve our economy and public health.”
Advertisement
Advertisement
The ISG is also speaking out in support of HB299, a bill introduced in the Illinois legislature in January that aims to create a state renewable fuels standard. The legislation would require a B5 blend of from July 1, 2021 through July 1, 2024, when the requirement would increase to B20.
The ISG said it commits to continued discussion with Pritzker and cleaner fuels advocates to reconcile the proposals in a way that enhances the use of biodiesel in Illinois for air quality outcomes.
Broco Energy on July 17 announced a new partnership with the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) to deliver and transition Massport's fuel tanks to renewable diesel across its various facilities.
Shell Aviation, Accenture, and Amex GBT on July 10 announced Avelia is in the process of evolving to an industry solution with independent data hosting and a multi-supplier model helping users access the GHG benefits of SAF.
The U.S EPA on July 17 released data showing more than 1.9 billion RINs were generated under the RFS during June, down 11% when compared to the same month of last year. Total RIN generation for the first half of 2025 reached 11.17 billion.
The U.S. EPA on July 17 published updated small refinery exemption (SRE) data, reporting that six new SRE petitions have been filed under the RFS during the past month. A total of 195 SRE petitions are now pending.
European biodiesel producer Greenergy on July 10 confirmed plans to shut down its biodiesel plant in Immingham, Lincolnshire, U.K. The company temporarily suspended operations at the facility earlier this year.