NBB calls on EPA to implement RFS2 biodiesel targets

Posted November 30, 2009

The National Biodiesel Board has sent a letter to the U.S. EPA reiterating the critical importance of implementing renewable targets for Biomass-based Diesel.

The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) of 2007 expanded the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS2) and for the first time provided a specific requirement for renewable, low carbon diesel replacement fuel. RFS2 requires the use of 500 million gallons of Biomass-based Diesel in 2009; 650 million gallons in 2010; 800 million gallons in 2011; and 1 billion gallons in 2012. However, the Biomass-based Diesel volumes required by law have not been implemented due to delays in the RFS2 rulemaking process. Biodiesel is currently the only fuel produced domestically in commercial scale quantities that meets the definition of Biomass-based Diesel.

"We are rapidly approaching the end of 2009, a year beyond the statutory deadline for RFS2 implementation," noted Manning Feraci, NBB's Vice President of Federal Affairs. "The U.S. biodiesel industry has made vital business decisions based on the RFS2 renewable targets, and the nation's ability to meet these modest renewable goals will be undermined if the EPA does not take immediate steps to implement the Biomass-based Diesel Program."

In the letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, the NBB specifically explains the need for the EPA to use its existing authority to implement the 2009 and 2010 Biomass-based Diesel volumes as required by RFS2 no later than January 1, 2010. The letter further explains that the EPA can fulfill its non-discretionary duty to implement the Biomass-based Diesel program under the current RFS program by issuing an appropriate renewable volume obligation specifically for biodiesel.

"Further delay implementing the RFS2 volume requirements will prolong the severe economic hardship facing the domestic biodiesel industry, and we hope the EPA will take the common-sense steps called for in this letter," concluded Feraci.

The NBB is the national trade association of the biodiesel industry and is the coordinating body for biodiesel research and development in the U.S. NBB's membership is comprised of state, national, and international feedstock and feedstock processor organizations, biodiesel suppliers, fuel marketers and distributors, and technology providers.

SOURCE: NBB