The biofuels industry is frustrated with Biden’s 45-Z tax credit guidance

With just days left in office, the Biden Administration has released information about the 45-Z tax credit. However, biofuels groups argue the plan lacks critical details.

When it comes to renewable fuels, the Treasury Department says used cooking oil will not be included in the 45-Z credit, and they say that is to help limit concerns around mislabeled oils. In addition, the Energy Department is also expected to update the GREET model, which will determine the emissions rated for 45-Z.

Industry groups say they are disappointed by the release, saying it lacks key details farmers need.

The Renewable Fuels Association’s Geoff Cooper says, “We do not believe this guidance alone will spur the investment, innovation, and job creation in the clean fuels sector that Congress and the Administration intended. It simply isn’t bankable, investable, or otherwise actionable for the vast majority of biofuel producers.”

Related Stories
New rule speeds leasing and permitting for federal oil and gas development
Payment totals alone do not show financial stress — production costs and net losses complete the picture.
Year-round E15 remains on the table, but procedural caution and competing regional interests pushed action into a slower, negotiated path.
Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council published a joint press release regarding the advancement of legislation to delist the Mexican Gray Wolf from the Endangered Species Act.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the recent Fifth Circuit Court decision overturning a prior Tax Court decision on self-employment tax for limited partners, the ruling’s impact on farmers, and potential next steps in Congress.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Success requires more than talent — on this week’s FFA Today, agriculture students show us the hard work, dedication, and teamwork required to gain important skills outside of the classroom through the National FFA Organization.
Federal assistance has helped, but the most recent row-crop losses remain on producers’ balance sheets.
OOIDA’s Lewie Pugh discusses the EPA’s new Right to Repair guidance and other regulatory developments impacting the trucking and agriculture industries.
Tyler Schuster is an ag industry advocate who mentors and supports the next generation, especially women finding their place in the cattle industry.
NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart breaks down CAFO permits, EPA enforcement, and what cattle producers need to know as rules continue to evolve.
Rebuilding domestic textiles depends on automation and vertical integration, not tariffs or legacy manufacturing models.