The proposed 2018 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) issued last week meets expectations for corn-based ethanol but dealt a setback to biodiesel and cellulosic ethanol, industry leaders said.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) left the requirement for conventional biofuels like corn ethanol untouched at the maximum of 15 billion gallons, upholding President Donald Trump’s campaign pledge to support the industry, said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Dir­ector Monte Shaw.

"IRFA applauds President Trump for keeping his campaign promise with this proposal to uphold the Renewable Fuel Standard for ethanol," he said. "Maintaining the 15-billion-gallon conventional biofuels level is good news for E15, motorists and farmers. This proposal would keep the RFS on track and provide regulatory stability for ethanol producers, retailers and obligated parties alike."

Biodiesel flatlined

However, biodiesel manufacturers were disappointed as ...