RINSTAR Blog
EPA News Grab Bag: Biodiesel Tax Credits, SAF Incentives & Key RFS Signals for 2026
As 2025 comes to a close, renewable fuels policy is moving quickly. From efforts to reinstate biodiesel tax credits to renewed focus on SAF incentives and evolving RFS signals, these developments could significantly impact compliance strategies heading into 2026. In this EPA news grab bag, RINSTAR breaks down what producers, blenders, and obligated parties need to know.
RIN Haircut Debate: How a 50% RIN Credit for Imports Could Reshape Biomass-Based Diesel Markets
EPA’s proposed “Half RIN” (or “RIN haircut”) could reduce RIN value for imported biofuels and domestically produced fuels made with foreign feedstocks. The proposal could potentially reshape D4 RIN pricing, renewable diesel competitiveness, and sourcing decisions across the biomass-based diesel market. Here’s what’s on the table, what stakeholders are saying, and what to watch as EPA moves toward finalizing the 2026–2027 RVOs.
From Waste to Wealth: How Wastewater Treatment Plants Are Becoming Renewable Energy Powerhouses Under the RFS
Wastewater treatment plants are no longer just sanitation facilities—they are becoming powerful renewable energy producers. By converting biogas into RNG and leveraging high-value D3 RINs under the Renewable Fuel Standard, municipalities nationwide are transforming waste into long-term clean fuel revenue.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and the RFS: Are We Ready for Takeoff?
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is emerging as aviation’s most promising path to deep decarbonization, but scaling production remains a major challenge. This article explores how the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), federal incentives, and evolving technologies are shaping SAF’s future and what it will take to reach 35 billion gallons by 2050.
EPA Refinery Exemptions Trigger Backlash and Investigations
The EPA’s latest round of Small Refinery Exemptions has sparked backlash from state leaders and renewable fuel advocates. Learn what the decision means for refineries, RIN markets, and the future of RFS compliance.
Auditor 101: What RFS Audits Look For and How to Prepare
RFS audits don’t have to be stressful. From PTDs and BOLs to EMTS reconciliation, this guide breaks down what auditors look for and how to keep your compliance records ready year-round. Discover how RINSTAR’s automated tools simplify audit prep and safeguard your program’s integrity.
Engineering Reviews, Attest Engagements & QAPs: Strengthening RIN Integrity Under RFS
Accuracy and accountability drive the RFS. This guide explains how engineering reviews (§80.1450), annual attest engagements (§80.1464), and voluntary Quality Assurance Plans (QAPs) work together to safeguard RIN validity—plus the protections of Q-RINs (§80.1473) and auditor independence (§80.1471). RINSTAR streamlines compliance by organizing RIN data, documentation, and transaction history in one secure system so you’re prepared for audits and ongoing oversight.
The Responsible Corporate Officer (RCO): Why the Role Matters and How to Select the Right Person
The Responsible Corporate Officer (RCO) is the EPA-facing point of accountability for RFS compliance. This guide explains core duties (accurate reporting, valid RIN generation, fraud prevention, recordkeeping), the real personal risks (criminal charges, fines, debarment), and the traits of an effective RCO. It also offers practical steps for small or flat organizations and shows how RINSTAR helps with RIN tracking, EMTS sync, audits, and document control so that leaders can stay transparent, accurate, and protected.
Industry Voices Push for Full SRE Reallocation at EPA’s Supplemental RFS Hearing
The EPA’s October 1, 2025, public hearing brought strong industry consensus in support of 100% reallocation of small refinery exemptions (SREs). Biofuel producers, agricultural groups, and renewable energy advocates stressed that full reallocation is critical to maintaining the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and preventing market disruptions. As the EPA reviews comments, RINSTAR continues to help participants navigate compliance confidently with automated RIN tracking, transparent reporting, and streamlined regulatory support.