The Renewable Fuel Standard: Overview and Implementation Issues

Understand the complexities of United States energy policy with this comprehensive guide to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Established by Congress as an amendment to the Clean Air Act, the RFS creates a regulatory framework that mandates a minimum volume of renewable fuel within U.S. transportation fuel. This book provides a clear look at how these mandated volumes increase annually and the specific requirements for compliance. Readers will learn about the distinctions between conventional biofuels, such as cornstarch ethanol, and advanced biofuels, like cellulosic ethanol. The text covers the necessary criteria for fuels to be applied toward the mandate, including specific use cases for transportation fuel, jet fuel, and heating oil. It also details the environmental and biomass feedstock standards that must be met to satisfy federal requirements. This is an essential resource for those studying the legal and regulatory landscape of renewable energy and fuel implementation.