Iowa Biodiesel Board backs higher volumes in RFS proposal, marks 20 years of landmark energy policy

Photo: Jenna Higgins Rose, Iowa Biodiesel Board

The Iowa Biodiesel Board applauded the proposal to expand renewable volume obligations (RVOs) for 2026 and 2027 in written comments to the U.S. EPA, calling it a win for American energy security and rural economies.  

The group called the Renewable Fuel Standard, now in its 20th year, one of the most successful energy policies in U.S. history.   

“If the proposed biomass-based diesel volumes become law, we thank the administration for keeping the RFS strong and relevant for the next 20 years,” said Grant Kimberley, IBB executive director. “Higher RVOs mean stability for producers, opportunity for farmers and continued growth for the biodiesel industry.” 

In the comments, submitted Aug. 8, IBB urged EPA to level the playing field between biodiesel and renewable diesel by equalizing renewable identification number (RIN) generation.  

Under the proposed rule, renewable diesel would earn 1.6-1.7 RINs per gallon while biodiesel would earn only 1.5, despite both using the same feedstock pool and delivering the same benefits to American energy independence, according to IBB. 

IBB also stressed the need for feedstock diversification to keep the industry economically viable, especially under new restrictions tied to the 45Z clean fuel production credit.  

The group proposed no RIN reduction for feedstocks from USMCA trading partners and a 50 percent reduction for those from outside the bloc—a balance between prioritizing domestic feedstocks and maintaining flexibility for growth. 

IBB further called for strict RVO enforcement across all obligated parties and reallocation of any small-refinery exemptions (SREs) to protect market stability. 

“As we celebrate the RFS’s legacy, we must also focus on its future,” Kimberley said. “Fair rules, strong volumes and smart feedstock policy will keep biodiesel delivering for farmers, consumers and the environment.” 

Kimberley also thanked Iowa’s Congressional delegation—Sens. Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, and Reps. Randy Feenstra, Zach Nunn, Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Ashley Hinson—for their continued leadership and unified support for Iowa’s biofuel producers and soybean growers.