The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) heard concerns from many biofuels industry stakeholders during a public hearing Wednesday in Ypsilanti, Michigan on the proposed rule to set 2020 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) and the 2021 RVO for biomass-based diesel under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Much of the comments from both sides of the issues centered on whether or not EPA should account for renewable fuel volumes waived under small refinery exemptions.
Among those on the first panel of witnesses was Renewable Fuels Association chief economist Scott Richman.
RFA chief economist Scott Richman hearing testimonyAmerican Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) Communications Director Katie Fletcher testified that failure of EPA to reallocate waived gallons is contributing to an already tough economy for farmers and ethanol producers.
ACE Communications Director Katie Fletcher hearing testimonySeveral representatives from the National Biodiesel Board (NBB) testified at the hearing, emphasizing that EPA is sending a negative signal to the biodiesel industry by proposing flat volumes and then rolling them back through retroactive small refinery exemptions.
NBB Chairman Kent Engelbrecht, Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), NBB were Vice President of Federal Affairs Kurt Kovarik, and Chief Operating Officer Doug Whitehead.