Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2)
Life Cycle Associates helps companies get certified and comply with the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2), including certification for new pathways. Implemented by the EPA, the RFS sets volumetric targets for various renewable fuels. The RFS2 established mandatory carbon intensity (CI) emission thresholds for renewable fuel categories based on percent reductions from an established 2005 petroleum baseline.
We work with customers to calculate fuel pathway CI’s and document these applications with EPA.
Current Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2) fuel pathways
|
Renewable Fuel Category |
Definition | RIN D Code |
|
Cellulosic Ethanol |
Crop residue, slash, pre-commercial thinnings and tree residue, switchgrass, miscanthus, energy cane, Arundo donax, Pennisetum purpureum, and separated yard waste; biogenic components of separated MSW; cellulosic components of separated food waste; and cellulosic components of annual cover crops. Derived from cellulose with a 60% GHG reduction relative to petroleum fuels displaced. |
3 |
| Biomass Based Diesel |
Biodiesel or renewable diesel with a 50% GHG reduction relative to petroleum fuels displaced. |
4 |
| Advanced Biofuel | Any renewable fuel other than corn ethanol with 50% GHG reduction relative to petroleum fuels displaced. |
5 |
|
Conventional Renewable Fuel |
Biomass based fuel with 20% GHG reduction relative to petroleum fuels displaced. | 6 |
|
Cellulosic Diesel/Jet |
Cellulosic diesel, jet fuel, or heating oil with 60% reduction relative to petroleum fuels displaced. |
7 |
Using our extensive experience with the Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) GREET model, we represent customers in discussions with EPA and help develop current and new fuel pathway strategies and minimize pathway carbon intensities.
New fuel pathways under the RFS2
As new feedstocks, production processes, and fuels emerge, we work with clients to petition for new fuels pathways to qualify for the RFS2. 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.
Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2) lifecycle analysis includes emissions related to:
- Feedstock production and transportation
- Fuel production and distribution
- Co-product allocation
- Use of the finished fuel
Questions
Do you have questions about fuel life cycle analysis for your specific business case for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2)?