Attest Engagements Due Soon! 

Are you working on your attest engagement right now according to the recent RFS streamlining rules? 2023 Attest Engagements for all regulated parties and 2022 Attest Engagements for obligated parties are due June 1, 2024.

As part of the EPA’s recent efforts to alleviate regulatory burden, 40 CFR Part 80 (Renewable Fuel Standard) and Part 1090 (gasoline manufacturer) attest engagement requirements were streamlined as well as adding few new requirements. One of the new requirements includes the 3rd party/independent auditor (required to complete the attest engagement) now must associate with the regulated party (all parties registered under RFS) in the EPA Fuels Program as well as change business activities to reflect the requirement to complete an attest engagement. If you transacted RINs in 2023, you most likely need an attest engagement.

In addition, EPA updates the quarterly and annual compliance RFS reports on a periodic basis, be sure you are using the most recent version of EPA reports by checking here: https://www.epa.gov/fuels-registration-reporting-and-compliance-help/list-quarterly-and-annual-reports-renewable-fuel

Contact Ginger at the Alternative Fuels Council if you need help getting back on compliance track!  Our online system creates a system of record that improves efficiency and transparency for auditors.

$19 Million in Recent Grants Awarded Under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) – Its not too late to apply!

The most recent award recipients from the HBIIP grant program include Casey’s, Piasa Enterprises, Bulk Petroleum, Love’s Travel Stops, and AC&T for biodiesel and ethanol projects, including E15 and E85 dispensers, B20 dispensers, and ethanol and biodiesel storage tanks. Tristar FLC Inc. will use the funding to build a high-efficiency transload facility in Fontana, CA.  

There’s still time to apply for this grant opportunity for any renewable projects you’ve been considering. The upcoming 2024 deadlines are March 31, June 30, and September 30.  

Both transportation fueling facilities and fuel distribution facilities can apply for this grant, though you will need to pick which type of facility you will be applying for grant funding. This funding is also open to various fuel applications, such as heating oil, on-road transportation, and fleet facilities, including rail and marine.  

The grant awards are cost-share for up to 75% of total eligible project costs, not to exceed $5M – whichever is less.  

Let us know if you need to connect with a grant writer! 

View HBIIP and/or Other Incentives

State Incentives Matter – Jeff Hove

Renewable fuel has become an integral part of the fuel marketing industry and in order to remain ultra-competitive, fuel wholesalers and retailers must be knowledgeable regarding both federal and state regulations, incentives, supply options and infrastructure. There are several key issues facing those in the fuel industry. 

Current federal administration philosophies on deregulation have been taking their toll on the biofuels industry over the past two years. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS1- 2007, RFS2-2010-2022+) has effectively been the driving force behind the introduction of alternative fuels that can generate higher fuel margins. RFS corresponding renewable identification numbers still hold important value for blenders but other programs are beginning to overshadow the value of the renewable identification numbers (RINs). Blenders that recognize state incentives and growing interests in state low-carbon fuel standards (LCFS) will position themselves well for future fuel marketing models… 
View Full Article