The House just passed what The Hill calls a “sweeping clean energy bill” that would boost the development and use of renewable fuels.
The House approved the Clean Energy and Jobs Innovation Act, a 900-page bill that “would create research and development programs for solar, wind, advanced geothermal energy, and hydroelectric power as well as lessening pollution from fossil fuel production,” among other provisions, says The Hill.
Regarding biofuels, the bill “sets a June 1 deadline for refineries to petition for exemptions from the Renewable Fuel Standard blending requirements and requires public disclosure of which companies are seeking those exemptions,” POLITICO PRO reported.
What they’re saying: “It takes actions that scientists, researchers, and experts tell us is needed by launching the research and development needed to unleash a clean energy revolution and reduce pollution in our communities, making a bold down payment for future climate action by modernizing America’s energy innovation infrastructure,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA).
What's the outlook? The Senate introduced similar legislation earlier this year, so the two bills would need to be reconciled if/when the Senate passes their version. However, it’s likely to remain stalled if the Senate focuses its energy (no pun intended) on RBG’s replacement, as Utility Dive explained earlier this week. Furthermore, the White House has indicated it would veto the House package. We'll keep you updated.
BIO’s take: We support legislation that would reduce emissions and advance renewable energy, especially biofuels. We look forward to continuing to work with the House and Senate to expand the use and development of low-carbon, sustainable fuels that can help us clean up air pollution and create rural jobs.
Learn more about sustainable biofuels.
More Agriculture and Environment News:
Biofuels International: New biological platform converts corn fiber into ethanol
“Novozymes has launched Fiberex, a comprehensive platform based on novel enzymes and yeast strains to convert corn fiber into ethanol.”
Fast Company: These carbon-negative, ocean-degradable straws and forks are made from greenhouse gases
“If the material is made into a disposable fork and ends up in the ocean, it degrades as easily as cellulose, turning into a food source for microbes.”
