By Scout Nelson
A recent visit from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to a soybean processing facility in Emporia, Kansas placed national attention on the growing importance of biofuels and their role in supporting the agricultural economy.
Leaders from Bunge and the National Oilseed Processors Association joined KSA president Brett Neibling and CEO Kaleb Little to welcome EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin to the facility.
During the event, industry leaders emphasized the value of consistent federal biofuel policies. Strong guidance, they noted, encourages investment, supports rural economies, and provides stability for renewable energy development. The discussion highlighted the Renewable Fuel Standard and the 45Z tax credit as major contributors to the continued expansion of the U.S. biofuels sector.
“This event showcased the significant domestic market opportunity for US soybean farmers through strong federal biofuel policies like the Renewable Fuel Standard and the 45Z tax credit,” Neibling said. “We are thankful to the Trump Administration for the robust Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) proposed, and it is time to get those volumes finalized and across the finish line.
These rules will provide a substantial boost to biodiesel and renewable diesel demand, build demand for soybean processing, and support farm families across Kansas and the rest of the country."
Biofuels play a major role in strengthening domestic energy security while also supporting local and national economies. Biomass-based diesel adds value to soybean oil and contributes about 10 percent of the value of every bushel of soybeans grown in the United States. In Kansas alone, that value reached $149 million in 2024.
The state of Kansas continues to expand its renewable energy footprint. It is home to both a renewable diesel facility and a biodiesel plant, which together generate more than $1 billion in statewide economic impact.
Two new soybean processing plants began operating last year, nearly doubling Kansas’ crush capacity. These expansions were driven largely by the rising demand for biofuels.
The visit underscored the importance of timely federal decisions, which industry leaders say are essential to unlocking future investment and strengthening the long-term growth of renewable fuels across the country.
Photo Credit:biofuel1-vista-mipan
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Soybeans, Energy, Government & Policy