NBB Statement on EPA’s Announcement to Delay RFS Waiver Request Decision

WASHINGTON, D.C.– National Biodiesel Board Chief Executive Officer Joe Jobe released the following statement today in response to EPA’s announcement to delay a decision on Texas Governor Rick Perry’s request for a Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) waiver:

“In considering the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) waiver request by Gov. Perry, it is important to note that all renewable fuels qualify for the current RFS. In fact, if the RFS is waived or cut in half in 2008, then the growth of all biofuels, including 'advanced biofuels' such as biodiesel, will be severely hindered.

“As Gov. Perry himself pointed out just last month, alternative fuels such as biodiesel play an important role in ‘diversifying not only our energy portfolio, but our economic landscape.’*

“Beyond the environmental and energy security benefits provided by biofuels, the opportunity for green jobs and the continued economic development of biodiesel refineries in Texas must be taken into account by the EPA when evaluating whether to waive the RFS. Unfortunately, the goal of bringing biofuels, jobs and energy independence to Texas and the nation, which Gov. Perry praised just last month, will not be realized if the RFS is waived.

“While a delay is understandable considering the complexity of the issue before them, we urge the EPA to ultimately reject the waiver request. Gov. Perry had it right when he praised biodiesel for ‘providing a necessary alternative to fossil fuels without negatively impacting our food supply.’”*

* Jun. 02, 2008, States News Service; “Gov. Perry: The Future of Renewable Energy in Texas is Now"

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