Delays in Biden Administration’s Aviation Fuel Emissions Model
Biden Administration’s Climate Modeling Delay
The Biden administration announced a delay in releasing its new climate modeling for sustainable aviation fuel feedstocks. Sources revealed disagreements over the details as the reason for the setback.
Implications for Biofuels Industry
The slow progress on the revised modeling has caused frustration in the biofuels industry. Uncertainty lingers over whether corn-based ethanol will qualify for subsidies for sustainable aviation fuel production.
Revised Model Timeline
A White House spokesperson stated that the revised model would be finalized in the coming weeks. The administration has been grappling with decisions on implementing the $1.25-per-gallon sustainable aviation fuel tax credit.
Challenges for Ethanol Industry
The ethanol industry aims to become a significant sustainable aviation fuel supplier but faces the hurdle of proving its climate benefits using an approved model.
Meeting Setbacks
A recent meeting at the White House failed to resolve issues surrounding model revisions, leading to a postponement in the release of new guidance.
Environmental Concerns
Environmental groups advocate for assigning a higher penalty to ethanol to account for carbon emissions released during land tilling for crops.
Industry Optimism
Despite delays, industry leaders like Emily Skor remain optimistic, emphasizing the importance of getting the revisions right to provide opportunities for American farmers in the sustainable aviation fuel market.
Industry Adaptations
The eventual revisions may require the ethanol industry to implement additional practices like using solar power and sustainable farming to meet eligibility criteria for the sustainable aviation fuel tax credit.
