WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — The U.S. Treasury and IRS have released long-awaited guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, signaling a major shift in how the federal government incentivizes domestic renewable energy production. The guidance aims to support U.S. agriculture while promoting cleaner fuels like corn ethanol and soy biodiesel.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to break down the new rules.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, McEowen outlined key points, including the North American mandate that protects domestic agriculture and the removal of indirect land-use change penalties, which lowers the “entry bar” for corn and soybean producers.
McEowen also addressed concerns around farm data privacy, explaining the role of the “qualified certifier” and who has access to the information submitted. He discussed challenges around carbon capture technology, noting that while the technology exists at ethanol plants, infrastructure and permitting remain bottlenecks to moving CO₂ efficiently.
For farmers, McEowen emphasized key considerations as they plan operations under the new guidance, including eligibility requirements and compliance considerations.
READ MORE: Firm to Farm: Proposed I.R.C. §45Z Regulations
Falling commodity prices and rising costs continue to squeeze farm margins. Kip Jacobs with The Mosaic Company addresses fertilizer market pressures, nutrient use efficiency, and strategies growers can consider to protect their fertilizer investment this season.
March 03, 2026 05:00 AM
·
Weather Swings Shape Early Season Farm Conditions Nationwide
March 02, 2026 02:54 PM
·
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
March 02, 2026 02:25 PM
·
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
March 02, 2026 02:23 PM
·
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
March 02, 2026 02:22 PM
·
Dry conditions may tighten hay supplies before summer growth. John Mays of Central Life Sciences joined us to discuss the risks of extended grain storage, how quality can be affected over time, and what growers can do to protect their grain while waiting for market opportunities.
March 02, 2026 02:21 PM
·
