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Biofuel groups testify at EPA hearing on 2026-27 Renewable Fuel Standards

The U.S. EPA heard comments from biofuel industry groups Tuesday as part of a public hearing on proposed Renewable Fuel Standards for 2026 and 2027.

EPA’s Dallas Burkholder says the agency’s proposal for 2026 includes 15 billion gallons of conventional ethanol, over 9 billion gallons for advanced biofuels including 5.61 billion gallons of biomass-based diesel and 1.3 billion gallons of cellulosic biofuel.

“EPA is ensuring a growing supply of domestically produced renewable fuels, particularly those produced from domestically sourced feedstocks,” Burkholder said. “Which is a key component in meeting the statutory goals of increasing the energy independence and security of the United States.”

During testimony, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor said the proposed RVOs will create certainty for the industry.

“This is the strongest RFS proposal that we have seen with the highest volumes ever,” Skor said, “showing this administration’s commitment to American biofuel producers and the farmers that depend on them.”

Geoff Cooper, president and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, says the statutory purpose of the RFS is to boost and diversify domestic energy production.

“Thus, RFA strongly supports EPA’s proposed 50% reduction in RINs generated for import-based renewable fuels,” Cooper said.

American Coalition for Ethanol CEO Brian Jennings says it will be critical for EPA to follow through on its higher-than-expected RVO level for biomass-based diesel.

“EPA can provide an economic boost for U.S. farmers and rural communities if the final rule includes the agency’s higher volume scenario with respect to the biomass-based diesel category,” Jennings said.

The EPA is expected to finalize RVOs in the fall.