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:
- Production and Consumption:
- California's biodiesel production and consumption figures vary annually.
- Key biodiesel statistics may include production volumes, consumption trends, and market shares.
- Carbon Intensity Performance:
- Biodiesel's carbon intensity performance, measured in grams of CO2 equivalent per megajoule (gCO2e/MJ), is relevant under the LCFS.
- 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.
- LCFS Compliance Credits:
- Biodiesel producers can earn LCFS credits based on the carbon intensity of their product.
Renewable Diesel Statistics:
- Production:
- Renewable diesel production has been increasing in response to growing demand.
- Major producers include the United States, Europe, and Singapore.
- 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.
- 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):
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- 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.
- Clean Fuels Alliance America (CFAA):
- CFAA, a U.S.-based biodiesel industry association, might provide industry statistics and trends, including those specific to California.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA):
- The EIA provides data on biodiesel production, consumption, and related statistics for the United States.
- 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.
- 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.