U.S. Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Adrian Smith (R-NE), and Randy Feenstra (R-IA) on Nov. 1 unveiled a bipartisan bill that would direct the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to update its greenhouse gas modeling for renewable fuels.
Specifically, the Adopt Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation (GREET) Act, H.R. 6152, would require the EPA to apply the Argonne National Lab’s GREET Model to any fuel for which it has approved a pathway and deemed qualified for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
The EPA then would be required to update its modeling every five years or report to Congress to affirm its modeling is current or otherwise explain why no updates were made, the summary says.
“The EPA’s current greenhouse gas modeling is limiting adoption of homegrown renewable fuels,” said Rep. Johnson, a co-chair of the congressional Biofuels Caucus. “In contrast, the GREET model takes into account the full lifecycle of renewable fuels — from a farmer’s field to fuel pumps — and gives consumers a more accurate picture of the benefits biofuels offer. We should be using the best science available and that’s exactly what this bill does.”
“Agencies must use up-to-date, scientifically accurate modeling to ensure we keep pace with the latest technologies and innovations,” said Rep. Smith, another caucus co-chair. “It is crucial EPA adopts the GREET Model to fully reflect the positive impact of biofuels on emissions reductions.”
Rep. Feenstra added that the GREET model has proven to be the most accurate and reliable tool for measuring the emissions reductions and environmental impact of ethanol, biodiesel, and sustainable aviation fuel.
“Time and time again, this model confirms that homegrown ethanol and biodiesel help cut emissions, lower gas prices, and restore American energy independence,” Rep. Feenstra said. “I fully endorse the use of the GREET model to accurately assess and convey the benefits of biofuels — including sustainable aviation fuel — for our economy, our energy security, and our environment.”
Rep. Smith also pointed out that the GREET model reinforces “the positive contributions of American farmers and ranchers,” and makes agriculture products and byproducts more competitive exports.
Rep. Johnson sponsored H.R. 6152 with 16 original cosponsors, including Reps. Feenstra and Smith, as well as U.S. Reps. Ron Estes (R-KS), Mike Bost (R-IL), Don Bacon (R-NE), and Mark Pocan (D-WI).
“I am proud to work with my Midwestern colleagues to require the Biden administration to adopt the GREET model, which would be a major victory for our families, farmers, biofuels industry, and rural communities,” said Rep. Feenstra.
The American Coalition for Ethanol, the Renewable Fuels Association, Growth Energy, the South Dakota Corn Growers Association, POET LLC, Gevo Inc., and the National Oilseed Processors Association endorsed the bill.
H.R. 6152 is the companion bill to the same-named S. 3055, sponsored on Oct. 17 by U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-SD), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Mike Rounds (R-SD), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).