Iowa Biodiesel Board testifies at EPA hearing in support of strong RFS volumes

The Iowa Biodiesel Board testified July 8 at a U.S. EPA virtual hearing, expressing strong support for the agency’s proposed increases in Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for biobased diesel in 2026 and 2027.

Grant Kimberley, IBB executive director, spoke on behalf of the organization’s biodiesel producers, soybean farmers and the broader biofuels value chain.

In his remarks, Kimberley thanked EPA for recognizing the importance of higher volumes and stressed the economic and energy-security benefits of American-made biodiesel.

“Thank you to the EPA for proposing record-setting biomass-based diesel volumes under the RFS for 2026 and 27,” Kimberley said.

“This is a welcome signal to Iowa farmers and biofuel producers. It recognizes the strength, resilience and long-term potential of our industry,” he added.

Kimberley also emphasized that biodiesel production supported $598 million in value for soybean farmers in 2024, equating to roughly $1 per bushel.

He underscored the wider benefits to agriculture and rural economies.

Kimberley also addressed the importance of EPA’s handling of small-refinery exemptions (SREs), which have historically caused volatility in the market.

“If exemptions aren’t accounted for, the number quickly becomes less meaningful and only feeds market uncertainty and chaos,” Kimberley said. “We appreciate the proposal to project small-refinery exemptions for 2026 and 2027. That will ensure that the final volumes are met.”

In closing, Kimberley reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to meeting the challenge and seizing the opportunity.

“The Iowa Biodiesel Board stands ready to support the successful implementation of these volumes and ensure we keep building on this momentum,” he said.