January 12, 2023
BY Iowa Renewable Fuels Association
According to a recent survey conducted by the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, Iowa’s 11 biodiesel plants produced a combined 349 million gallons of biodiesel 2022, up from 340 million gallons in 2021. Last year’s production was the third highest reported, with a record 365 million gallons produced in Iowa in 2018.
“Iowa continues to lead the nation in biodiesel production,” stated IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw. “Biodiesel continues to be a good market for adding value for Iowa farmers. Even with growing renewable diesel production around the country, we see exciting new opportunities for biodiesel in addition to traditional on-road and agricultural markets. Home-heating oil, rail, and even marine applications are emerging that we believe will grow biodiesel demand in future years.”
Soybean oil, with 71 percent of production, remained the feedstock of choice for Iowa biodiesel producers. Likewise, animal fats remained in second place at 11 percent. Canola oil usage increased markedly to barely edge corn oil for third place. Both accounted for roughly 7 percent of production. Used cooking oil dropped to 4 percent of production.
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The U.S. EPA on May 14 delivered two RFS rulemakings to the White House OMB, beginning the interagency review process. One rule focuses on RFS RVOs and the other focuses on a partial waiver of the 2024 cellulosic RVO.
The U.S. EPA on May 15 released data showing nearly 1.79 billion RINs were generated under the RFS in April, down from 2.09 million generated during the same month of last year. Total RIN generation for the first four months of 2025 was 7.12 billion.
Calumet Inc. on May 9 announced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) capacity at its Montana Renewables biorefinery is expected to reach 120 MMgy to 150 MMgy sooner than previously reported for a fraction of the originally expected cost.
Tidewater Renewables on May 8 announced that its 3,000-barrel-per-day renewable diesel plant in Prince George, British Columbia, operated at 75% capacity during the first quarter, up from 71% during the same period of last year.
Aemetis Inc. released Q1 results on May 8, reporting increased biogas production, progress with efficiency improvements at the Keyes ethanol plant, and resumed biodiesel deliveries. Financing activities are also underway for a proposed SAF project.