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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BWC Terminals on April 22 celebrated the official completion of its expanded renewable fuels terminal at the Port of Stockton. The facility is designed to safely and efficiently transfer renewable diesel and biodiesel from marine vessels.
Repsol and Bunge on April 25 announced plans to incorporate the use of camelina and safflower feedstocks in the production of renewable fuels, including renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Renewable Fuels Month highlights the importance of renewable biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel. The month of May marks the beginning of the summer driving season, making it an ideal time to fuel up on clean and cost-saving biofuels.
PBF Energy on May 1 announced that its St. Bernard Renewables facility produced approximately 10,000 barrels per day of renewable diesel during Q1, down from 17,000 barrels per day during the Q4 2024.
Germany-based Mabanaft on April 17 announced it started to supply SAF to airlines at Frankfurt Airport in January. The company said it will deliver more than 1,000 metric tons of SAF to the airport this year under the European SAF mandate.