WASHINGTON, D.C.—Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuel trade association, will submit formal comments later today in support of the Trump administration’s proposal to expand U.S. biofuel production. The comments, responding to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2026-2027 plan for biofuel blending obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), call on the agency to swiftly finalize strong volumes while protecting against small refinery exemptions (SREs) that could undercut anticipated benefits to drivers, farmers, and rural communities
“The Trump administration has laid out an ambitious course that will unlock new investment, increase U.S. energy production, and provide reliable markets for our farmers,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “We urge EPA to stand strong on the president’s vision and swiftly finalize the proposed volumes. At the same time, we recognize that a minority of refiners continue to demand special exemptions that would destroy the very demand this proposal is intended to deliver. The EPA has indicated that they intend to fully account for any lost gallons from 2026 and 2027 exemptions. Maintaining that approach will send a clear signal that producers and farmers can count on this EPA to ensure the promised volumes actually reach the marketplace.”
As part of their written submission, Growth Energy will also call on EPA to:
- Continue to grow the RFS to help drive further investment in higher ethanol blends such as E15 and E85.
- Minimize refinery exemptions to those small refineries that can fully demonstrate disproportionate economic hardship.
- Finalize the proposal on E15 labeling and infrastructure.
- Finalize the proposal to incentivize homegrown fuels and feedstocks including those throughout North America.
- Approve pending pathways and registrations to help grow opportunities for cellulosic biofuels from corn and sorghum kernel fiber, aviation fuel, and carbon capture.
“While EPA finalizes this important rule, Congress also has important work to do on E15,” added Skor. “It’s time to lift the needless regulations standing between U.S. consumers and lower-cost E15, so all Americans can make their own fuel and vehicle choices. Year-round E15 is a critical part of President Trump’s push to unleash competition at the pump and hold down American fuels costs.”
To receive a copy of Growth Energy’s full comments on EPA’s proposed biofuel volumes, email Growth Energy Director of Communications and Media Relations Jake Barron here.