Brown, Ricketts introduce the Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act
Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio
February 28, 2024
BY Erin Voegele
Sens. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, and Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., on Feb. 27 introduced the Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act, which aims to ensure that renewable identification numbers (RINs) generated for renewable fuel used by ocean-going vessels would be eligible for Renewable Fuel Standard compliance. Companion legislation was introduced by Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, in December 2023.
The RFS currently excludes “fuel used in ocean-going vessels” from the definition of transportation fuels and from refiners’ and blenders’ obligations. Refiners and blenders are currently required to retire RINs from any biodiesel and renewable diesel used in vessels with Class 3 engines operating in international waters, including the Great Lakes. In the first 10 months of 2023, more than 5 million D4 RINs were retired under this rule.
The U.S. EPA, however, allows companies to generate and use RINs for “additional renewable fuel,” which includes heating oil and jet fuel. The Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act would expand the RFS definition of additional renewable fuel and allow companies to use or sell the RINs associated with biodiesel and renewable diesel used in ocean-going vessels.
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“Ohio can be a leader in producing more sustainable marine fuels – creating new markets for Ohio farmers,” Brown said. “From ships crossing the Atlantic to vessels delivering goods to ports along Lake Erie, Ohio soybean farmers can produce the renewable fuel of the future that drives this industry. This bill is a win for Ohio farmers and producers.”
“This legislation will drive demand for biofuels and provide more opportunities for Nebraska farmers who have played a crucial role creating a strong renewable diesel economy,” Ricketts said. “These kinds of solutions strengthen American energy independence, support American jobs, and reduce emissions.”
The bill is supported by Ohio Soybean Association, Clean Fuels Alliance America, American Soybean Association, Cruise Lines International Association, American Waterways Operators, and North American Renderers Association.
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Clean Fuels Alliance America is applauding the introduction of the Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act. “The international shipping industry is seeking to decarbonize and clean fuels like biodiesel and renewable diesel are available today to help,” said Kurt Kovarik, vice president of federal affairs for Clean Fuels. “This commonsense legislation will enable biodiesel and renewable diesel producers to meet the low-carbon fuel demand from shipping companies operating on both coasts and the Great Lakes. It will open new markets to American clean fuel producers and their farmer partners.”
A full copy of the bill is available on Brown’s website.
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