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Renewable Fuel Standard Program

News, Notices and Announcements for the Renewable Fuel Standard

News, notices and announcements include, among other things, rulemakings, responses to petitions, notices requesting comment on lifecycle analysis, compliance deadlines, and alternative plans.

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Announcement Title Description Announcement Date
(Year/Month)
Final Determination for Renewable Fuels and Air Quality Pursuant to Clean Air Act Section 211(v)

EPA has determined that no additional appropriate fuel control measures are necessary to mitigate air quality impacts of required renewable fuel volumes.

Learn more about the Clean Air Act 211(v) Anti-Backsliding Determination and Study.

2021/01
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for E15 Labeling

This proposed rule would either modify or remove EPA’s label requirement for E15 fuel dispensers. The proposal would also modify underground storage tank regulations to accommodate safe storage of E15 and higher gasoline-ethanol blends at retail stations’ existing tank systems.

Learn about the notice of proposed rulemaking for E15 labeling.

2021/01
Petitions for a Waiver of the 2019 and 2020 Renewable Fuel Standards

EPA seeks comment on several petitions for a waiver of the 2019 and 2020 Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) volume requirements from refineries and the governors of several states.

Learn more about Petitions for a Waiver of the 2019 and 2020 Renewable Fuel Standards

2021/01
RFS Compliance Deadline Extension

EPA is taking two actions to adjust the renewable fuel standard compliance dates.

First, EPA proposed to extend the compliance deadline for the 2019 renewable fuel standards and the associated deadline for submission of attest engagement reports for the 2019 renewable fuel standards for small refineries. The new deadlines are November 30, 2021 and June 1, 2022, respectively.

Second, EPA proposed to extend the compliance deadline for the 2020 renewable fuel standards and the associated deadline for submission of attest engagement reports for the 2020 renewable fuel standards for all obligated parties. The new deadlines are January 31, 2022 and June 1, 2022, respectively. This proposed action intends to extend these deadlines ahead of the March 31, 2021 compliance deadline for the 2020 renewable fuel standards in our existing regulations. 

Click here for more information.

2021/01
Denial of Petitions for Small Refinery Exemptions from the Renewable Fuel Standard

In 2020, 17 small refineries submitted petitions asking EPA either to reconsider exemption denials or to grant exemptions for prior years in which the refineries had not sought them. The letter below provides the response to these petitions.

Denial of Petitions for Small Refinery Exemptions.

2020/09
Proposed Anti-Backsliding Determination for Renewable Fuels and Air Quality

EPA is proposing to determine that no additional appropriate fuel control measures are necessary to mitigate air quality impacts of required renewable fuel volumes.

Learn more about the Clean Air Act 211(v) Anti-Backsliding Determination and Study.

2020/05
Cellulosic Waiver Credit Price Calculation for 2020 This page announces the Cellulosic Waiver Credit Price Calculation for 2020. 2020/01

Final Renewable Fuel Standards for 2020, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2021

EPA finalized volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program for 2020 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel, as well as the biomass-based diesel volume for 2021.

Learn more about the final RFS for 2020 and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2021.

2019/12

Proposed Volumes for 2020 and Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2021: Supplemental Notice

EPA issued a supplemental proposal and is seeking additional comment on the recently proposed rule to establish the cellulosic biofuel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel volumes for 2020 and the biomass-based diesel volume for 2021 under the RFS program. EPA will hold a public hearing on Oct. 30, 2019 followed by a 30-day comment period from the date of the hearing to receive public input on these issues.

Learn more about the supplemental notice.

2019/10

Memorandum of Understanding Between the Internal Revenue Service and EPA

This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Internal Revenue Service and EPA creates an agreement to share information about fuel production facilities and fuel program compliance to facilitate policy development, market understanding, data verification for renewable fuel credits, identification and reduction of Renewable Identification Number fraud in support of RFS program administration, and identification and reduction of fuel tax credit fraud in support of federal tax administration.

Learn more about the MOU

2019/09
Section 610 Review of Renewable Fuels Standard Program

EPA opened a public comment period through the Spring 2019 Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions to review the rulemaking “Regulation of Fuels and Fuel Additives: Changes to Renewable Fuel Standard Program” (75 FR 14670, March 26, 2010). EPA will review this action pursuant to section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 610) to determine if the provisions that could affect small entities should be continued without change, or should be rescinded or amended to minimize adverse economic impacts on small entities. Comments were requested within 60 days of this notice.

On August 20, 2019, EPA extended the comment period to September 21, 2019. Learn more about the extension of comment period.

2019/08

Public Hearing for Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2020, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2021

EPA held a public hearing in Michigan on July 31, 2019 for the proposed rule ‘‘Renewable Fuel Standard Program: Standards for 2020 and Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2021.’’

Learn more about the Public Hearing.

2019/07

Proposed Volume Standards for 2020, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2021

EPA issued proposed volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard program for cellulosic biofuel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel for calendar year 2020. EPA also proposed biomass-based diesel volume standards for calendar year 2021.

Learn more about Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2020 and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2021.

2019/07

Final Rulemaking for Modifications to Fuel Regulations to Provide Flexibility for E15 and to Elements of the Renewable Identification Number Compliance System

EPA finalized regulatory changes to allow gasoline blended with up to 15 percent ethanol (E15) to take advantage of the 1-psi Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) waiver that currently applies to E10 during the summer months. EPA also finalized certain reforms aimed at increasing our market monitoring capabilities and to bring more transparency to the RIN market.

Learn more.

2019/05
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Modifications to Fuel Regulations to Provide Flexibility for E15 and to Elements of the Renewable Identification Number Compliance System

EPA proposed regulatory changes to allow gasoline blended with up to 15 percent ethanol (E15) to take advantage of the 1-psi Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) waiver that currently applies to E10 during the summer months.

Learn more about the proposed rulemaking.

2019/03
Proposed Consent Decree to Complete the Anti-backsliding Study for Renewable Fuel Volumes

EPA announced a proposed consent decree that would require EPA to complete the “anti-backsliding study” required by Clean Air Act section 211(v)(1) by March 30, 2020.

Learn more about the proposed consent decree.

2019/02
Cellulosic Waiver Credit Price Calculation for 2019

For any calendar year for which the projected volume of cellulosic biofuel production is less than the applicable volume of cellulosic biofuel set forth in Clean Air Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must reduce the required volume of cellulosic biofuel for that year to the projected volume and must provide obligated parties the opportunity to purchase cellulosic waiver credits.

Learn more about the 2019 CWC Price.

2018/12
Final Renewable Fuel Standards for 2019, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2020

EPA finalized volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program for 2019 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel, as well as the biomass-based diesel volume for 2020.

Learn more about the final Renewable Fuel Standards for 2019 and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2020.

2018/11
Grain Sorghum Oil Pathway Final Rule

EPA issued a final notice determining biodiesel and heating oil produced from distillers sorghum oil via a transesterification process, as well as renewable diesel, jet fuel, heating oil, naphtha, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) produced from distillers sorghum oil via a hydrotreating process, would meet the lifecycle GHG emissions reduction threshold of 50 percent required for advanced biofuels and biomass-based diesel under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program.

Learn more about the Final Rulemaking.

2018/07
EPA’s Report to Congress on the Environmental and Resource Conservation Impacts of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) Program

As required by the Energy Independence and Security Act, EPA issued its second report to Congress on the environmental and resource conservation impacts of the Renewable Fuels Standard program. This report is a synthesis of the peer-reviewed scientific literature since 2011 on biofuel use and production impacts on air and water quality, water quantity, ecosystem health and biodiversity, soil quality, invasive species, and international land use change.

Learn more about EPA's Report to Congress.

2018/06
Public Hearing for Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2019, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2020

EPA held a public hearing in Michigan on July 18, 2018 for the proposed rule ‘‘Renewable Fuel Standard Program: Standards for 2019 and Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2020.’’

Learn more about the Public Hearing.

2018/07
Proposed Volume Standards for 2019 and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2020

EPA issued proposed volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard program for cellulosic biofuel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel for calendar year 2019. EPA also proposed biomass-based diesel volume standards for calendar year 2020.

Learn more about Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2019 and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2020.

2018/06
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Grain Sorghum Oil Pathways

EPA issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking which provides an opportunity to comment on the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions associated with biofuels that are produced from grain sorghum oil extracted at dry mill ethanol plants.

Learn more about the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.

2017/12
Cellulosic Waiver Credit Price Calculation for 2018

For any calendar year for which the projected volume of cellulosic biofuel production is less than the applicable volume of cellulosic biofuel set forth in Clean Air Act, EPA must reduce the required volume of cellulosic biofuel for that year to the projected volume, and must provide obligated parties the opportunity to purchase cellulosic waiver credits.

Learn more about the 2018 CWC Price.

2017/12
Final Renewable Fuel Standards for 2018, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2019

EPA finalized volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program for 2018 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel, and biomass-based diesel for 2019.

Learn more about the final Renewable Fuel Standards for 2018 and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2019.

2017/11
Periodic Reviews of the Renewable Fuel Standard Program

EPA is required to conduct periodic reviews of certain aspects of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program under the Clean Air Act. This Notice describes EPA's interpretation of the statutory requirement to conduct periodic reviews, and prior actions that EPA has taken to fulfill its obligations to conduct such reviews.

Learn more about the Notice.

2017/11
Response to Petitions for Reconsideration of RFS2 Rule to Change the Point of Obligation

EPA denied requests from petitioners to initiate a rulemaking to change the point of obligation for compliance under the Renewable Fuels Standards program. Based on a wide range of stakeholder input and information provided as a part of the public comment period, the agency has determined that changing the regulatory point of obligation for compliance with the RFS program is not appropriate.

Learn more about the petition response.

2017/11
Renewable Fuel Standard Program: Standards for 2018 and Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2019; Availability of Supplemental Information and Request for Further Comment

EPA issued a Notice of Availability of Supplemental Information and Request for Further Comment to provide public notice and an opportunity to comment on potential reductions in the 2018 biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel volumes, and/or the 2019 biomass-based diesel volume under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program.

Learn more.

2017/10
Public Hearing for Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2018, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2019

EPA held a public hearing in Washington, D.C. on August 1, 2017 for the proposed rule ‘‘Renewable Fuel Standard Program: Standards for 2018 and Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2019.’’

Learn more about the Public Hearing (PDF)(2 pp, 212 K, published July 18, 2017)

2017/08
Proposed Volume Standards for 2018, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2019

EPA issued proposed volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard program for cellulosic biofuel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel for calendar year 2018. EPA also proposed biomass-based diesel volume standards for calendar year 2019.

Learn more about Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2018 and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2019.

2017/07
Notice of Analysis of the GHG Emissions Attributable to the Production and Transport of Sugar Beets for Use in Biofuel Production

EPA issued a notice of opportunity to comment on the Agency’s analysis of the greenhouse gas emissions attributable to the production and transport of sugar beets for use as a biofuel feedstock.

Notice of Opportunity to Comment (PDF) (8 pp, 311 K, published July 26, 2017)

2017/07
Response to Petition for Partial Supplemental Waiver of the 2016 Cellulosic Biofuel Volumetric Requirements

EPA sent a letter to the American Petrochemical and Fuel Manufacturers (“AFPM”) denying its petition for a partial supplemental waiver of the 2016 cellulosic biofuel standard established under the Renewable Fuel Standard.

Learn more about the petition response.

2017/01
Extension of Comment Periods for: the Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support (REGS) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, and the Proposed Denial to Change the Point of Obligation

EPA issued extensions of the comment periods for two actions.

Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support Rule; Extension of Comment Period (PDF) (1 pg, 187 K, published December 27, 2016.)

Learn more about the comment period extension for the Proposed Denial.

2016/12
Notice of Data Availability for the Proposed Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support Rule

EPA issued a Notice of Data Availability (NODA) that will make additional data available for comment on the ethanol flex fuel (EFF) provisions in the Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support (REGS) rule.

Learn more about the Notice of Data Availability.

2016/12
Notice of Cellulosic Waiver Credit Price Calculation for 2017

Information regarding the calculation of the Cellulosic Waiver Credit (CWC) price, and establishment of the CWC price, for 2017.

Learn more about the 2017 CWC Price.

2016/11
Final Renewable Fuel Standards for 2017, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2018

EPA finalized the volume requirements and associated percentage standards under the RFS program for calendar year 2017 for cellulosic biofuel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel, and biomass-based diesel for 2018.

Learn more about the Final Renewable Fuel Standards for 2017, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2018.

2016/12
Response to Petitions for Reconsideration of RFS2 Rule to Change the Point of Obligation

EPA proposed to deny requests from petitioners to initiate a rulemaking to change the point of obligation for compliance under the Renewable Fuel Standards (RFS) program.

Learn more about the petition response.

2016/11
Public Hearing for Proposed Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support Rule

EPA held a public hearing in Chicago, Illinois on December 6, 2016 for the proposed ‘‘Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support Rule.’’

Public Hearing for the Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support Rule (PDF) (1 pg, 231 K, published November 10, 2016)

2016/11
Proposed Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support Rule

EPA proposed to update its renewable fuels standard regulations and related fuels regulations to better align our standards with the current state of the renewable fuels market and to promote the use of ethanol and non-ethanol biofuels.

Learn more about the proposed updates.

2016/11
Public Hearing for Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2017, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2018

EPA held a public hearing in Kansas City, Missouri on June 9, 2016 for the proposed rule. 

Public Hearing for the Renewables Enhancement and Growth Support Rule (PDF)(2 pp, 199 K, published May 26, 2016)

2016/05
Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2017, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2018

EPA proposed the volume requirements and associated percentage standards that apply under the RFS program in calendar years 2017 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel. EPA proposed the volume requirement for biomass-based diesel for 2018.

Learn more about the proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2017, and the Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for 2018.

2016/05
Final Technical Amendments

EPA finalized three amendments from a February 2015 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. The amendments being finalized are two changes to provisions to correct and clarify portions of the Tier 3 Motor Vehicle Emission and Fuel Standards rule, and one to clarify an aspect of the Renewable Fuel Standard Program that was put in place with the Quality Assurance Program rule.

Learn more about the Final Technical Amendments.

2016/02
EPA and U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) enter into a Memorandum of Understanding

CFTC and EPA announced a memorandum of understanding that allows the agencies to share RFS data and analysis. Under this agreement, the agencies agree to cooperate and coordinate on topics related to implementation of the RFS program and the market for renewable identification numbers.

Read the CFTC-EPA Memorandum of Understanding.

2016/03
Final Renewable Fuel Standards for 2014, 2015, and 2016, and the Biomass-Based Volume for 2017

EPA finalized the volume requirements and associated percentage standards under the RFS program in calendar years 2014, 2015, and 2016 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel. EPA also finalized the volume requirement for biomass-based diesel for 2017.

Learn more about Final Renewable Fuel Standards for 2014, 2015, and 2016, and the Biomass-Based Volume for 2017.

2015/11
Notice of Cellulosic Waiver Credit Price Calculation for 2016

Information regarding the calculation of the Cellulosic Waiver Credit (CWC) price, and establishment of the CWC price, for 2016.

Learn more about the 2016 CWC Price.

2015/11
Notice of Opportunity to Comment on an Analysis of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Attributable to Production and Transport of Jatropha Curcas Oil for Use in Biofuel Production

EPA's analysis of the lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions attributable to the production and transport of jatropha curcas oil feedstock for use in making biofuels such as biodiesel, renewable diesel, and jet fuel.

Learn more about the Analysis.

2015/10
Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2014, 2015, and 2016, and the Biomass-Based Volume for 2017

EPA proposed the volume requirements and associated percentage standards that would apply under the RFS program in calendar years 2014, 2015, and 2016 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel. EPA also proposed the volume requirement for biomass-based diesel for 2017.

Learn more about Proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2014, 2015, and 2016, and the Biomass-Based Volume for 2017.

2015/11
Renewable Fuels Volume Standards Timeline Announced

A consent decree in litigation brought against EPA, by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM).

Learn more about Renewable Fuels Volume Standards Timeline Announced.

2015/04
Cellulosic Waiver Credit Price and Minor Amendments: Direct Final Rule

A direct final rule on the Renewable Fuels (RFS) program to clarify how EPA calculates cellulosic waiver credit prices.

Learn more about Cellulosic Waiver Credit Price and Minor Amendments.

2015/04
Notice of Opportunity to Comment on an Analysis of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Attributable to Production and Transport of Cotton (Gossypium spp.) Seed Oil for Use in Biofuel Production

EPA’s analysis of the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions attributable to the production and transport of Gossypium spp. seed oil (“cottonseed oil”) feedstock for use in making biofuels such as biodiesel, renewable diesel, and jet fuel.

Notice (PDF) (8 pp, 358 K, published July 14, 2015)

2015/07
Notice of Opportunity to Comment on Analysis of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Attributable to the Production and Transport of Brassica Carinata Oil for Use in Biofuel Production

EPA’s analysis of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions attributable to the production and transport of carinata oil feedstock for use in making biofuels such as biodiesel, renewable diesel, and jet fuel.

Notice (PDF) (8 pp, 700 K, published April 24, 2015)

2015/04
Notice of Opportunity to Comment on Analysis of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Attributable to the Production and Transport of Pennycress (Thlaspi Arvense) Oil for Use in Biofuel Production

EPA’s analysis of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions attributable to the production and transport of pennycress oil feedstock for use in making biofuels such as biodiesel, renewable diesel, and jet fuel.

Notice (PDF) (6 pp, 353 K, published March 20, 2015)

2015/03
Approval Letter for an Alternative Renewable Biomass Tracking Program

CARBIO’s plan includes a robust tracking program that requires an independent third party to conduct an annual survey of the entire biofuel supply chain, from soybean production through intermediate processing, to biodiesel production.

Learn more about Alternative Renewable Biomass Tracking Program.

2015/01
Request for Substantiations of Claims of Confidential Business Information (CBI) from Businesses that have Submitted Reports and Transactional Information under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) Program

EPA received a request under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) for certain records submitted to EPA under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program between January 1, 2011 and November 2014.

EPA published a notice in the Federal Register requesting substantiations of confidentiality claims from businesses that have submitted any or all of the information listed in the notice and are claiming the information as confidential business information (CBI). Notice (PDF) (5 pp, 186.5 K, published December 11, 2014)

2014/12
Rescinding the [2013 NPRM] Proposed Annual Volume Standards for 2014

Learn more about the 2014 Renewable Fuel Standards for Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.

2014/12
Extending the Compliance Deadlines for the 2013 Renewable Fuels Standards

Action extending two reporting deadlines for the RFS 2013 compliance period.

Learn more about the extensions.

2014/08
Voluntary Quality Assurance Plan for RFS Program

Final rule providing a structured process for independent third parties to audit the production of renewable fuel and the generation of RINs.

Learn more about Voluntary Quality Assurance Plan for RFS Program.

2014/06
Renewable Fuel Pathways II Final Rule to Identify Additional Fuel Pathways under the RFS Program

Final rule describing EPA’s evaluation of biofuels derived from biogas fuel pathways under the RFS program.

Learn more about Renewable Fuel Pathways II Final Rule.

2014/07
EPA Extends the Compliance Deadlines for the 2013 Renewable Fuels Standards

Final action extending the compliance deadlines for the 2013 renewable fuel standards.

Learn more about Extension.

2014/04
2013 Cellulosic Biofuel Standard: Direct Final Rulemaking

Direct final action revising the 2013 cellulosic biofuel standard published on August 15, 2013.

Learn more about 2013 Cellulosic Biofuel Standard: Direct Final Rulemaking.

2014/04
Response to Petitions for Reconsideration of the 2013 Cellulosic Biofuel Standard

Based on information that became available after the 2013 RFS standards were finalized, EPA granted petitions for reconsideration filed by The American Petroleum Institute (API) and the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) for the 2013 cellulosic biofuel standard.

Learn more about EPA's Response to Petitions for Reconsideration of the 2013 Cellulosic Biofuel Standard.

2014/01
Notice of Opportunity to Comment on the Lifecycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions for Renewable Fuels Produced from Biomass Sorghum

EPA’s analysis of the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions attributable to the growth and transport of biomass sorghum feedstock for use in making biofuels such as ethanol or diesel.

Federal Register Notice (PDF) (7 pp, 249K, published December 31, 2014)

2014/04
Comment on Petitions for a Waiver of the Renewable Fuel Standards

Request for comment on petitions for a waiver of the renewable fuel standards that would apply in 2014. EPA expects that a determination on the substance of the petitions will be issued at the same time that EPA issues a final rule establishing the 2014 RFS standards.

Notice of Receipt of Petitions for a Waiver of the Renewable Fuel Standard (PDF) (3 pp, 204 K, published November 29, 2013)

2013/09
Final rule to expand the definition of heating oil in the regulations

Learn more about the final rule.

2013/09
Renewable Fuel Standards Final Rulemaking

Learn more about the final rulemaking.

2013/08
EPA Denies Petitions for Reconsideration of the Final Rule Establishing the 2013 Biomass-Based Diesel Volume

Learn more about EPA's denial of petitions for reconsideration.

2012/11
Notice of Data Availability Concerning Renewable Fuels Produced from Barley

Notice of Data Availability (NODA) to release EPA’s lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) analysis of barley used as a feedstock to produce ethanol.

Learn more about the notice.

2013/07
Final Rule for Additional Qualifying Renewable Fuel Pathways

EPA finalized pathways for production of renewable fuel from giant reed (Arundo donax) and napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum) as feedstocks.

Learn more about the final rule.

2013/06
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: RFS Pathways II and Technical Amendments to the RFS2 Standards

Proposal amending certain provisions of the renewable fuels standard (RFS2) program regulations.

Learn more about the notice of proposed rulemaking.

2013/05
Final Rule to Identify Additional Fuel Pathways

EPA identified additional renewable fuel production pathways and pathway components that could be used in producing qualifying renewable fuel under the RFS program.

Learn more about the final rule.

2013/03
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to Establish a Voluntary Quality Assurance Program for Verifying the Validity of Renewable Identification Numbers

EPA issued a proposal to establish a voluntary quality assurance program for verifying the validity of Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program.

Proposed Rule (PDF) (61 pp, 651 K, published February 21, 2013)

2013/02
2013 Renewable Fuel Standards Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

EPA issued a proposal to establish a voluntary quality assurance program for verifying the validity of Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program.

Learn more about: Notice of Proposed Rule (PDF) (26 pp, 637 K, published February 7, 2013)

2013/02
Supplemental Determination for Renewable Fuels Produced Under the Final RFS2 Program from Grain Sorghum

EPA issued a supplemental determination to release its lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) analysis of grain sorghum used as a feedstock to produce ethanol under the RFS program.

Learn more about the Supplemental Determination.

2012/12
Modifications to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) Program

EPA published a notice to withdraw amendments to the RFS and diesel sulfur programs that were issued in a direct final rule, published on October 9, 2012 (77 FR 61281). In response to adverse public comment to the amended definition of heating oil in the RFS program and the diesel transmix amendments, we are withdrawing those portions of the direct final rule. Because we did not receive adverse public comment on the yellow marker provisions or a general clarifying amendment for RFS RIN generation, those amendments will take effect as noted in the direct final rule, on December 10, 2012.

Learn more about the Modifications.

2012/12
2013 Biomass-Based Diesel Volume Final Rulemaking

EPA established an applicable volume of 1.28 bill gallons for biomass-based diesel (BBD) for 2013. EPA set this volume based on consideration of the factors specified in the statute, including a consideration of biodiesel production, consumption, and infrastructure issues. As required under the statute, EPA also assessed the likely impact of BBD production and use in a variety of areas.

Learn more about the Final Rulemaking.

2010/03
Notice of Data Availability (NODA) from Grain Sorghum

Notice providing an opportunity to comment on EPA's analyses of grain sorghum used as a feedstock to produce ethanol under the RFS program.

Notice of Data Availability Concerning Renewable Fuels Produced From Grain Sorghum Under the RFS Program (PDF)(13 pp, 338.9 K, published June 12, 2012).

2012/06
2012 Standards Final Rulemaking

EPA established the volume requirements and associated percentage standards that will apply under the RFS2 program in calendar year 2012 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel. The standards ensures that transportation fuel sold in the United State contains a minimum volume of renewable fuel as required by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007.

Learn more about the 2012 Standards for Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Final Rulemaking.

2012/01
Notice of Data Availability (NODA) for Renewable Fuels Produced from Palm Oil

Notice providing an opportunity to comment on EPA's analyses of palm oil used as a feedstock to produce biodiesel and renewable diesel under the RFS program.

Learn more about the Notice of Data Availability (NODA) for Renewable Fuels Produced from Palm Oil Under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2) Program.

2012/01
Direct Final Rule to Identify Additional Fuel Pathways

EPA published a notice to withdraw the amendments to the RFS2 regulations issued via direct final rule on January 5, 2012.

Learn more about the Direct Final Rule.

2012/02
Denial of Requests for a Waiver of the Renewable Fuel Standard

Governors from several states requested a waiver of the national volume requirements for the renewable fuel standard program (RFS) pursuant to Section 211(o)(7) of the Clean Air Act. EPA's extensive analysis makes clear that Congressional requirements for a waiver have not been met and that waiving the RFS would have minimal impact on ethanol demand.

Learn more about the Denial of Requests.

2012/08
Notice of Approval of RFS2 MSW Separation Plan

EPA’s approval of Fiberight Blairstown LLC's municipal solid waste separation plan. The plan demonstrates the removal of recyclable materials from the municipal solid waste they intend to use as a feedstock for renewable fuel production under EPA's Renewable Fuel Standard Program.

Learn more about the Notice of Approval of RFS2 MSW Separation Plan.

2012/06
Notice of Response to Petition from Canada for Application of the Renewable Fuel Standard Aggregate Compliance Approach

EPA issued a notice of receipt of and solicited public comment on a petition for EPA to authorize the use of an aggregate approach for compliance with the Renewable Fuel Standard renewable biomass requirements, submitted by the Government of Canada. The petition requested that EPA determine that an aggregate compliance approach will provide reasonable assurance that planted crops and crop residue from Canada meet the definition of renewable biomass. This notice provides EPA’s approval of the petition.

Notice (PDF) (3 pp, 66K, published March 15, 2011)

2011/03
Hearing Announcement for Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on 2012 Renewable Fuel Standards and 2013 Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for Renewable Fuel Standard program (RFS2)

EPA issued a notice of receipt of and solicited public comment on a petition for EPA to authorize the use of an aggregate approach for compliance with the Renewable Fuel Standard renewable biomass requirements, submitted by the Government of Canada. The petition requested that EPA determine that an aggregate compliance approach will provide reasonable assurance that planted crops and crop residue from Canada meet the definition of renewable biomass. This notice provides EPA’s approval of the petition.

Hearing Notice (PDF) (2 pp, 182K, published June 28, 2011)

2011/06
2012 Renewable Fuel Standards and 2013 Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for Renewable Fuel Standard program (RFS2): Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

Learn more about the 2012 Renewable Fuel Standards and 2013 Biomass-Based Diesel Volume for Renewable Fuel Standard program (RFS2): Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.

2012/01
Notice of Response to Petition

EPA received four petitions for reconsideration of the final rule, Regulation of Fuels and Fuel Additives: Changes to Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2), (75 FR 14670, March 26, 2010).

Learn more about the Notice of Response to Petition.

2010/05
Notice of Receipt of Petition from Canada for Application of the Renewable Fuel Standard Aggregate Compliance Approach

To authorize the use of an aggregate approach for compliance with the Renewable Fuel Standard for renewable biomass. This petition was submitted by the Government of Canada.

Notice (PDF) (3 pp, 66K, published March 15, 2011)

2011/03
Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2): Program Amendments

EPA published a notice to withdraw several of the amendments to the RFS2 regulations that were issued via direct final rule and parallel proposal on May 10, 2010.

Learn more about the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2): Program Amendments.

2010/06
2011 Standards for Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Notice of Final Rulemaking

Final rule setting the volume requirements and associated percentage standards that apply under the RFS2 program in calendar year 2011 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel.

Learn more about the 2011 Standards for Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Notice of Final Rulemaking.

2010/12
Supplemental Determination for Renewable Fuels Produced Under the Final RFS2 Program from Canola Oil

This rule finalized the determination that canola oil biodiesel meets the lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction threshold of 50% required by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA).

Learn more about the Supplemental Determination for Renewable Fuels Produced Under the Final RFS2 Program from Canola Oil.

2010/09
Notice of Data Availability for Renewable Fuels Produced Under the Final RFS2 Program from Canola Oil

EPA conducted lifecycle GHG analyses for a number of biofuel feedstocks and production pathways as part of its March 26, 2010 RFS2 final rule. In the preamble to that final rule, EPA indicated that it had not completed the lifecycle emissions impact analysis for several specific fuels but that this work would be completed during 2010 and the regulations updated via a supplemental final rulemaking action. Since the final rule, we have completed a proposed assessment for an additional renewable fuel pathway, canola oil biodiesel.

Learn more about the Notice of Data Availability for Renewable Fuels Produced Under the Final RFS2 Program from Canola Oil.

2010/07
2011 Standards for Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

Proposed volume requirements and associated percentage standards for the RFS program in calendar year 2011 for cellulosic biofuel, biomass-based diesel, advanced biofuel, and total renewable fuel; and two proposed regulatory provisions intended to address RIN generation for certain new pathways in 2010 and documentation for certain categories of foreign feedstocks.

Learn more about the 2011 Standards for Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.

2010/11
Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Final Rule

Final rule establishing changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard program, as required by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, to ensure that transportation fuel sold in the United State contains a minimum volume of renewable fuel.

Learn more about the Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Final Rule.

2010/03
Partial Grant and Partial Denial of Clean Air Act Waiver Application Submitted by Growth Energy to Increase the Allowable Ethanol Content of Gasoline to 15 Percent; Decision of the Administrator

EPA reviewed the March 2009 application from Growth Energy, available test data and public comments on the waiver request.

Learn more about the Partial Grant and Partial Denial of Clean Air Act Waiver Application Submitted by Growth Energy to Increase the Allowable Ethanol Content of Gasoline to 15 Percent; Decision of the Administrator.

2010/10
Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

Proposed revisions to the RFS program as required by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA).

Learn more about the Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2): Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.

2008/10
Notice of 2009 Requirement

EPA announced the Renewable Fuel Standard for 2009: 10.21 percent. This notice, which is required under section 211(o) of the Clean Air Act as amended by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, supersedes the notice published February 14, 2008.

Learn more about the Notice of 2009 Requirement.

2008/02
Notice of Extension of Public Comment for the proposed rule to implement the expanded Renewable Fuel Standard Program

Notice of an extension of the comment period for the proposed rule "Regulation of Fuels and Fuel Additives: Changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard Program." Under the Federal Register Notice, published May 26, 2009, the public comment period was set to end on July 27, 2009. This document extended the comment period an additional 60 days until September 25, 2009, to allow the public additional time to provide comment on the proposed rule.

Learn more about the Notice of Extension of Public Comment.

2009/05
Denial of the State of Texas Request for a Waiver of a Portion of the Renewable Fuel Standard

EPA denied the Texas waiver request for a portion of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

Learn more about the Denial of the State of Texas Request for a Waiver of a Portion of the Renewable Fuel Standard.

2008/08
Renewable Fuel Standard: Technical Amendments

EPA published a direct final rule on October 2, 2008, to amend the Renewable Fuel Standard program requirements.

Learn more about the Renewable Fuel Standard: Technical Amendments.

2008/10
Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS1): Final Rule

EPA finalized a national renewable fuel program that was designed to encourage the blending of renewable fuels into our nation's motor vehicle fuel.

Learn more about the Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS1): Final Rule.

2008/11