The revised renewable fuel standard, RFS2, went into effect July 1. NBB has spent a significant amount of time, effort and resources working with U.S. EPA to create and implement a program that displaces petroleum with advanced biofuels such as biodiesel. By rule, 800 million gallons of biodiesel must enter into the marketplace in 2011, in addition to the 345 million gallons EPA anticipates will be required in 2010. NBB producer members are working out the kinks to make the RFS2 a reality as the required volumes are a bright spot for the industry.

The details of the program are a bit hazy, and the NBB has spent a great deal of time reaching out to its members to ensure biodiesel producers understand the requirements of the program.

"We ended the first compliance period under the RFS2 in September and understanding EPA's Moderated Transaction System, how to sell biodiesel, whether the renewable identification number is attached or separated from the biodiesel gallon, and a whole host of new reporting requirements are issues every biodiesel producer must address," said NBB's Larry Schafer. "We are providing information to our members that will help them comply with the program in the most efficient way possible. The first time through this process is difficult and we are trying to demystify the program."

"Biodiesel is a fuel, and all fuels in America are highly regulated by the government," said Ron Marr, NBB member with Minnesota Soybean Processors. "NBB is developing as the expert in the regulatory arena that the biodiesel industry deals with every day, starting with the RFS2. This expertise is a great service, and a real benefit to NBB members."

The series of training workshops this year have included on-site training in Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, Des Moines, and 10 webinar sessions.