Frequently Asked Questions

1. Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction:
   • A minimum 50% reduction in GHG emissions compared to fossil fuels.

Source: Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources

2. Support for Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) in California:
   • Assists the LCFS program in achieving a 30% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030.

Source: California Air Resources Board (ARB)

Definition: Biodiesel is a renewable, biodegradable fuel produced domestically from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled restaurant grease. It meets the biomass-based diesel and overall advanced biofuel requirements of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

Benefits:

• Enhances energy security.
• Improves air quality and the environment.
• Provides safety benefits.

Source: Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC)

Definition: Renewable diesel is a fuel chemically identical to petroleum diesel, produced from fats and oils like soybean or canola oil.

Benefits:

• Significant emissions reduction compared to petroleum diesel.
• Enhanced flexibility in use and production.
• Compatible with existing infrastructure and diesel engines.

Source: Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC)

Difference: Renewable diesel and biodiesel are distinct fuels. Renewable diesel is a hydrocarbon often produced through hydrotreating, gasification, pyrolysis, and other technologies. In contrast, biodiesel is a mono-alkyl ester produced through transesterification.

Source: Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC)

Biodiesel Statistics:

1. Production and Consumption:
   • California's biodiesel production and consumption figures vary annually.
   • Key biodiesel statistics may include production volumes, consumption trends, and market shares.
2. Carbon Intensity Performance:
   • Biodiesel's carbon intensity performance, measured in grams of CO2 equivalent per megajoule (gCO2e/MJ), is relevant under the LCFS.
3. Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
   • Biodiesel is known for reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel.
   • The reduction percentage can vary based on feedstock and production processes.
4. LCFS Compliance Credits:
   • Biodiesel producers can earn LCFS credits based on the carbon intensity of their product.

Renewable Diesel Statistics:

1. Production:
   • Renewable diesel production has been increasing in response to growing demand.
   • Major producers include the United States, Europe, and Singapore.
2. Carbon Intensity:
   • Renewable diesel often boasts lower carbon intensity compared to traditional diesel.
   • Some jurisdictions, like California with its Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), provide statistics on the carbon intensity benefits.
3. Feedstock and Sources:
• Feedstock sources for renewable diesel include fats, oils, and greases.
• Statistics on the types of feedstock used can provide insights into the sustainability of production.

California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS):

1. Overview:
   • The LCFS is a state policy aimed at reducing the carbon intensity of transportation fuels, including diesel and gasoline.
   • It sets annual carbon intensity reduction targets, encouraging the use of low-carbon and renewable fuels.
2. Biodiesel and Renewable Diesel:
   • Biodiesel and renewable diesel are considered low-carbon alternatives under the LCFS.
   • Both contribute to meeting the state's carbon reduction goals.
3. Carbon Intensity Credits:
   • Producers of low-carbon fuels, including biodiesel and renewable diesel, earn credits based on the carbon intensity of their products.
   • These credits can be traded, providing an economic incentive for the use of low-carbon fuels.
4. Reporting and Compliance:
   • Fuel producers and importers are required to report the carbon intensity of the fuels they supply.
   • Compliance involves meeting or exceeding the annual carbon intensity targets.
5. Impact on the Market:
   • The LCFS has played a significant role in promoting the use of alternative fuels and reducing the carbon footprint of transportation in California.

Where to Find Latest Information:

1. California Air Resources Board (CARB):
   • CARB is the regulatory body overseeing the LCFS. The official CARB website provides the latest updates, regulations, and reports related to the LCFS and biofuels.
   • The AFDC, managed by the U.S. Department of Energy, may offer insights into biodiesel statistics and its role in California's alternative fuel landscape.
2. Clean Fuels Alliance America (CFAA):
   • CFAA, a U.S.-based biodiesel industry association, might provide industry statistics and trends, including those specific to California.
3. U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA):
   • The EIA provides data on biodiesel production, consumption, and related statistics for the United States.
4. Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC):
   • The AFDC, managed by the U.S. Department of Energy, offers insights into biodiesel statistics and its role in California’s alternative fuel.
5. International Energy Agency (IEA):
   • The IEA may offer global statistics and trends in the production and consumption of biodiesel and renewable diesel.

For the most up-to-date and specific statistics, it's recommended to visit the official websites of relevant organizations and agencies or refer to recent reports and publications on biofuels.