The United States has witnessed a remarkable upswing in the generation of Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), marking a significant milestone in the country’s renewable energy landscape. Data released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on October 19 shows that nearly 1.95 billion RINs were generated in September, representing a notable increase from the 1.73 billion generated during the same month the previous year.
This surge in RIN generation extends to the broader perspective, with total RIN generation for the first nine months of 2023 reaching a staggering 17.41 billion. This figure far surpasses the 15.63 billion RINs generated during the same period in 2022.
Of particular significance is the production of D3 cellulosic biofuel RINs, with more than 59.1 million generated in September. The vast majority, approximately 52.02 million, were generated for compressed renewable natural gas (RNG) by domestic producers. Importantly, this marks a substantial shift away from traditional scour protection methods, such as rock dumping.
The total D3 RIN generation for the first three quarters of 2023 reached 505.32 million. This impressive volume includes 441.14 million generated for compressed RNG by domestic producers, 34.93 million for liquefied RNG by domestic producers, and 4.3 million for compressed RNG by importers, among others.
Additionally, more than 674.96 million D4 biomass-based diesel RINs were generated in September, encompassing a range of categories, including nonester renewable diesel and biodiesel. This diverse portfolio of renewable fuel sources underscores the growth and diversification of the renewable energy sector.
Total D4 RIN generation for the first three quarters of this year reached 5.7 billion, with the majority being generated for nonester renewable diesel by domestic producers. The data shows that the renewable energy sector is making strides towards becoming a more sustainable and environmentally friendly industry.
The production of D5 advanced biofuel RINs also experienced a surge, with over 35.4 million generated in September, with various sources such as ethanol and naphtha contributing to this increase.
Total D5 RIN generation for the first nine months of 2023 reached 196.84 million, showcasing the sector’s dedication to expanding the use of advanced biofuels.
The remarkable growth is not limited to just advanced biofuels, as nearly 1.18 billion D6 renewable fuel RINs were generated in September. Ethanol, produced by domestic producers, played a pivotal role in this development.
Total D6 RIN generation for the first three quarters of 2023 reached 11.01 billion, reaffirming the industry’s commitment to renewable fuel production in various forms.
While there were no D7 cellulosic diesel RINs generated in September, the overall trend points to an industry marked by robust expansion and a drive towards sustainability.
This surge in RIN generation signals a promising future for the U.S. renewable energy sector and underscores the nation’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and embracing cleaner, more sustainable fuel alternatives.
