Today, representatives from the California delegation sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy, urging the EPA to finalize blending targets under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) to the statutory limits as originally called for by Congress. The letter highlights the importance of this program, and points out the EPA’s flawed methodology that would absolve the obligated party’s requirements to continue to provide higher biofuel blends. Emily Skor, Growth Energy CEO, issued the following statement:
“The letter explicitly urges EPA to put the RFS program back on track by finalizing blending targets that are in line with Congress’ original intent. The RFS program has been a resounding success. EPA’s methodology, as it currently stands will let the obligated parties off the hook, decreasing the commercial availability of higher blends, such as E15. By returning to the statutory levels, the administration would will send a signal to the renewable fuels industry that they are committed to achieving the goals of carbon reduction, a free and fair fuel marketplace where consumers have a choice, and reaffirm their commitment to reduce our dangerous dependence on foreign oil.
“We commend these members of Congress for supporting renewable fuels by acknowledging the industry’s tremendous innovation, investment and contributions. The biofuels industry and the RFS are advancing consumer choice, job creation and environmental improvement by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and removing other toxic alternatives, which have been proven to cause cancer, smog and groundwater contamination. Getting the RFS back on track is critical if we wish to continue to build on the progress already achieved.
“The RFS is our nation’s most successful energy policy, and the biofuels industry is an American success story. We thank this group of representatives for their commitment to fostering growth in the American biofuels industry, and stand with them in support.”
Click HERE to read the full letter