“We congratulate EPA for finalizing the rule for the Renewable Fuel Standard’s 2019 volumes and Biomass-Based Diesel Volumes for 2020 on time and applaud the agency for increasing advanced and cellulosic biofuel volumes from 2018.
“BIO is disappointed, however, that EPA missed this opportunity to reallocate gallons displaced from small refinery waivers, issued at the behest of the petroleum industry. From now on, EPA must take steps to ensure small refinery waivers are issued in accordance with the law, which states only in cases of disproportionate economic hardship. EPA also needs to approve new biofuel pathways and facility registrations to allow volumes of advanced and cellulosic biofuels to grow.
“Going forward, BIO looks forward to working with EPA as it develops its planned reset of the RFS to ensure a favorable and supportive investment climate for advanced and cellulosic biofuel producers. Given the uncertainty facing agriculture and rural communities, it is critical EPA put forward a strong policy that will increase production of sustainable, low carbon biofuels, strengthen the biobased economy, create good paying jobs, and help revitalize rural economies across the country.”