European Renewable Energy Directive (EU RED)

Life Cycle Associates helps companies get certified and comply with the European Union’s (EU) Renewable Energy Directive (RED III), including certification for new pathways. Updated in November 2023, the European Renewable Energy Directive sets renewable energy share targets for renewable fuels in EU member states. RED III has several established requirements including traceability and mandatory greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions.

The European Renewable Energy Directive sets an overall binding renewable energy target of 42.5% for 2030. This target includes a 14% renewable energy requirement for the transport sector and a minimum share of 3.5% for advanced biofuels.

European Renewable Energy Directive (EU RED)

Our EU Renewable Energy Directive services include:

Life Cycle Analysis

Conducting life cycle assessments for renewable energy pathways as well as comparative LCA’s for different renewable energy technologies.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Assessing the environmental impact of feedstocks and production processes.

Compliance

Assisting companies and projects in ensuring compliance with European Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) targets and sustainability criteria.

CI Reduction Strategies

Developing strategies for reducing the carbon intensity (CI) of renewable energy sources.

RED III GHG reduction requirements by plant start date

Plant started operations

Transport biofuel GHG reduction requirement

Before October 2015

50%

After October 2015

60%

After January 2021

65%

Using our extensive experience with LCA models, including the European Union’s BioGrace model, we represent customers in discussions with the EU Commission and certification bodies that help develop current and new fuel pathway strategies and minimize pathway carbon intensities. 

New fuel pathways under the EU Renewable Energy Directive

As new feedstocks, production processes, and fuels emerge, we work with clients to petition for new fuels pathways to qualify for RED III. We conduct full lifecycle GHG emission assessments to determine which fuel pathways can qualify and whether you should submit a petition for a new fuel pathway.  

Certification for EU Renewable Energy Directive Fuels

The ISCC (International Sustainability & Carbon Certification ) EU certification provides proof of compliance and qualifies biofuel or biomass companies for legal recognition under the targets set by the European Union. ISCC documents the production of biofuels with a mass balance system along the complete supply chain. ISCC Certification complies with legal requirements for biofuels/bioliquids in the EU and qualifies for incentives by meeting EU sustainability criteria for biofuels targets.

Questions

Do you have questions about the EU Renewable Energy Directive as it applies to your specific business case?