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NBB highlights policy priorities as Congress considers legislation

The National Biodiesel Board is highlighting industry priorities and the role biodiesel and renewable diesel play in generating economic, environmental, and health benefits.

Kurt Kovarik, vice president of federal affairs, says NBB is asking Congress to consider the priorities as it develops legislation to address infrastructure, climate, and more.

“The first is an extension of the biodiesel blenders tax credit which has been successful when it’s in place,” he says. “It’s been on again and off again for about 15 years but a long-term incentive would grow the industry, produce additional gallons, invest in plant facilities as well as feedstock production, and further decarbonize the diesel transportation fuel.”

On Tuesday, NBB wrote a letter to Congressional leaders that was signed by more than 50 companies outlining industry priorities. It was delivered ahead of the annual NBB Advocacy Day Fly-In. About 70 industry representatives engaged virtually in more than 80 meetings with lawmakers on Wednesday.

He tells Brownfield other priorities include supporting infrastructure for higher blends of biodiesel and optimizing the Renewable Fuel Standard.

“The Renewable Fuel Standard is the only statute that allows the administration to essentially promote low-carbon biofuels,” he says. “Optimizing that to grow volumes of homegrown, low-carbon biofuels should certainly be on (lawmakers) radar.”

The letter also highlights the $17 billion annual economic impact of the biodiesel and renewable diesel industry. In 2020, the U.S. used three billion gallons of renewable diesel and biodiesel, which led to an average 74 percent reduction in carbon emissions compared to petroleum diesel. The letter discussed a recent study by Trinity Consultants that showed substantial reduction in health care costs that communities can achieve by switching to biodiesel.

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Audio: Kurt Kovarik

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