EPA Announces RVO Delay

By Johannes Escudero, Coalition For Renewable Natural Gas.

Friday - November, 21. This morning the US EPA announced that it “is not in a position to finalize the 2014 RFS standards rules before the end of the year.” Accordingly, their statement continued, “we intend to take action on the 2014 standards rule in 2015 prior to or in conjunction with action of the 2015 standards rule.”

We recognize the negative near-term impacts on the cellulosic biofuels market. While we are disappointed by yet another delay, it is imperative that EPA get everything right. We prefer a delay over a roll-back or lower volumes that undermine the intent of the program. Additionally, we believe is it critical that EPA take the time time to resolve how it will address market transparency issues regarding use of cellulosic waiver credits before it moves forward. 

The Renewable Natural Gas industry continues to be optimistic and positive on the future of RNG’s future as a cellulosic biofuel. The Renewable Fuel Standard is an important policy that aides the diversification of our nation’s fuel portfolio, reduces dependence on foreign oil, and helps promote clean air. 

The complete text of US EPA’s announcement can be found at the link below. 

http://www.epa.gov/otaq/fuels/renewablefuels/documents/fr-notice-2014-rf-standards.pdf

For additional comments please contact Johannes Escudero, Executive Director of The Coalition For Renewable Natural Gas at 916.520.4764 or mailto:Johannes@rngcoalition.com.