§ 80.1450 - What are the registration requirements under the RFS program?

§ 80.1450 What are the registration requirements under the RFS program?

Cross Reference

Link to an amendment published at 88 FR 44587, July 12, 2023.

(a) Obligated parties and exporters. Any obligated party or any exporter of renewable fuel must provide EPA with the information specified for registration under 40 CFR 1090.805, if such information has not already been provided under the provisions of this part. An obligated party or an exporter of renewable fuel must receive EPA-issued identification numbers prior to engaging in any transaction involving RINs. Registration information may be submitted to EPA at any time after publication of this rule in the Federal Register, but must be submitted and accepted by EPA by July 1, 2010, or 60 days prior to RIN ownership, whichever date comes later.

(b) Producers. Any RIN-generating foreign producer, any non-RIN-generating foreign producer, any domestic renewable fuel producer that generates RINs, or any biointermediate producer that transfers any biointermediate for the production of a renewable fuel for RIN generation, must provide EPA the information specified under 40 CFR 1090.805 if such information has not already been provided under the provisions of this part, and must receive EPA-issued company and facility identification numbers prior to the generation of any RINs for their fuel or for fuel made with their ethanol, or prior to the transfer of any biointermediate to be used in the production of a renewable fuel for which RINs may be generated. Unless otherwise specifically indicated, all the following registration information must be submitted to EPA at least 60 days prior to the intended generation of RINs or the intended transfer of any biointermediate to be used in the production of a renewable fuel for which RINs may be generated. Renewable fuel producers may generate RINs for a renewable fuel under this part after EPA has accepted their registration and they have met all other applicable requirements under this part.

(1) A description of the types of renewable fuels, RNG, ethanol, or biointermediates that the producer intends to produce at the facility and that the facility is capable of producing without significant modifications to the existing facility. For each type of renewable fuel, RNG, ethanol, or biointermediate the renewable fuel producer or foreign ethanol producer must also provide all the following:

(i)

(A) A list of all the feedstocks and biointermediates the facility intends to utilize without significant modification to the existing facility.

(B) A description of the type(s) of renewable biomass that will be used as feedstock material to produce the biointermediate, if applicable.

(C) A list of the EPA-issued company and facility registration numbers of all biointermediate producers and biointermediate production facilities that will supply biointermediates for renewable fuel production.

(ii) A description of the facility's renewable fuel, RNG, ethanol, or biointermediate production processes, including:

(A) For registrations indicating production of cellulosic biofuel (D codes 3 or 7) from feedstocks other than biogas (including through pathways in rows K, L, M, and N of Table 1 to § 80.1426), the producer must demonstrate the ability to convert cellulosic components of feedstock into fuel by providing all of the following:

(1) A process diagram with all relevant unit processes labeled and a designation of which unit process is capable of performing cellulosic treatment, including required inputs and outputs at each step.

(2) A description of the cellulosic biomass treatment process, including required inputs and outputs used at each step.

(3) A description of the mechanical, chemical and biochemical mechanisms by which cellulosic materials can be converted to biofuel products.

(B) For registrations indicating the production of any biointermediate, the biointermediate producer must provide all of the following:

(1) For each biointermediate production facility, the company name, EPA company registration number, and EPA facility registration number of the renewable fuel producer and renewable fuel production facility at which the biointermediate produced from the biointermediate production facility will be transferred and used.

(2) Copies of documents and corresponding calculations demonstrating production capacity of each biointermediate produced at the biointermediate production facility.

(3) For each type of feedstock that the biointermediate producer intends to process the biointermediate producer must provide all the following:

(i) A list of all the feedstocks the facility intends to utilize without significant modification to the existing facility.

(ii) A description of the type(s) of renewable biomass that will be used as feedstock material to produce the biointermediate.

(4) The approved pathway(s) that the biointermediate could be used in to produce renewable fuel.

(iii) The type(s) of co-products produced with each type of renewable fuel, ethanol, or biointermediate.

(iv) A process heat fuel supply plan that includes all of the following:

(A) For all process heat fuel, provide all the following information:

(1) Each type of process heat fuel used at the facility to produce the renewable fuel, ethanol, or biointermediate.

(2) The name and address of the company supplying each process heat fuel to the renewable fuel facility, foreign ethanol facility, or biointermediate production facility.

(B) For biogas used for process heat, provide all the following information:

(1) Locations from which the biogas was produced or extracted.

(2) Name of suppliers of all biogas the producer purchases for use for process heat in the facility.

(3) An affidavit from the biogas supplier stating its intent to supply biogas to the renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer, and the quantity and energy content of the biogas that it intends to provide to the renewable fuel producer or foreign ethanol producer.

(v) The following records that support the facility's baseline volume or, for foreign ethanol facilities, their production volume:

(A) For all facilities except those described in paragraph (b)(1)(v)(B) of this section, copies of the most recent applicable air permits issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state, local air pollution control agencies, or foreign governmental agencies and that govern the construction and/or operation of the renewable fuel or foreign ethanol facility.

(B) For facilities claiming the exemption described in § 80.1403(c) or (d):

(1) Applicable air permits issued by EPA, state, local air pollution control agencies, or foreign governmental agencies that govern the construction and/or operation of the renewable fuel facility that were:

(i) Issued or revised no later than December 19, 2007, for facilities described in § 80.1403(c); or

(ii) Issued or revised no later than December 31, 2009, for facilities described in § 80.1403(d).

(2) If the air permits specified in paragraph (b)(1)(v)(B)(1) of this section do not specify the maximum rated annual volume output of renewable fuel, copies of documents demonstrating the facility's actual peak capacity.

(C) For facilities not claiming the exemption described in § 80.1403(c) or (d) and that are exempt from air permit requirements or for which the maximum rated annual volume output of renewable fuel is not specified in their air permits, appropriate documentation demonstrating the facility's actual peak capacity or nameplate capacity.

(D) For all facilities producing renewable electricity or other renewable fuel from biogas, submit all relevant information in § 80.1426(f)(10) or (11), including:

(1) Copies of all contracts or affidavits, as applicable, that follow the track of the biogas/CNG/LNG or renewable electricity from its original source, to the producer that processes it into renewable fuel, and finally to the end user that will actually use the renewable electricity or the renewable CNG/LNG for transportation purposes.

(2) Specific quantity, heat content, and percent efficiency of transfer, as applicable, and any conversion factors, for the renewable fuel derived from biogas.

(E)

(1) For parties registered to generate RINs for renewable CNG/LNG prior to July 1, 2024, the registration requirements under paragraph (b)(1)(v)(D) under this section apply until December 31, 2024.

(2) For biogas producers, RNG producers, and biogas closed distribution system RIN generators not registered prior to July 1, 2024, the registration requirements under § 80.135 apply.

(F) Any other records as requested by EPA.

(vi) For facilities claiming the exemption described in § 80.1403(c) or (d), evidence demonstrating the date that construction commenced (as specified in § 80.1403(a)(1)) including all of the following:

(A) Contracts with construction and other companies.

(B) Applicable air permits issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state, local air pollution control agencies, or foreign governmental agencies that governed the construction and/or operation of the renewable fuel facility during construction and when first operated.

(vii)

(A) For a renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer using separated yard waste:

(1) The location of any establishment from which the waste stream consisting solely of separated yard waste is collected.

(2) A plan documenting how the waste will be collected and how the renewable fuel producer or foreign ethanol producer will conduct ongoing verification that such waste consists only of yard waste (and incidental other components such as paper and plastics) that is kept separate since generation from other waste materials.

(B) For a renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer using separated food waste:

(1) A plan documenting the type(s) of separated food waste or biogenic waste oils/fats/greases, the type(s) of establishment from which the waste is collected, how the waste will be collected, a description of ongoing verification measures that demonstrate such waste consists only of food waste (and an incidental amount of other components such as paper and plastics) or biogenic waste oils/fats/greases that is kept separate from other waste materials, and if applicable, how the cellulosic and non-cellulosic portions of the waste will be quantified.

(2) [Reserved]

(viii) For a renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer using separated municipal solid waste:

(A) The location of the municipal waste establishment(s) from which the separated municipal solid waste is collected or from which material is collected that will be processed to produce separated municipal solid waste.

(B) A plan providing ongoing verification that there is separation of recyclable paper, cardboard, plastics, rubber, textiles, metals, and glass wastes to the extent reasonably practicable and which documents the following:

(1) Extent and nature of recycling that occurred prior to receipt of the waste material by the renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer;

(2) Identification of available recycling technology and practices that are appropriate for removing recycling materials from the waste stream by the fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer; and

(3) Identification of the technology or practices selected for implementation by the fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer including an explanation for such selection, and reasons why other technologies or practices were not.

(C) Contracts relevant to materials recycled from municipal waste streams as described in § 80.1426(f)(5)(iii).

(D) Certification by the producer that recycling is conducted in a manner consistent with goals and requirements of applicable State and local laws relating to recycling and waste management.

(E) The independent third-party engineer must visit all material recovery facilities as part of the engineering review site visit under § 80.1450(b)(2) and (d)(3), as applicable.

(ix)

(A) For a producer of ethanol from grain sorghum or a foreign ethanol producer making product from grain sorghum and seeking to have it sold as renewable fuel after addition of ethanol denaturant, provide a plan that has been submitted and accepted by U.S. EPA that includes the following information:

(1) Locations from which the biogas used at the facility was produced or extracted.

(2) Name of suppliers of all biogas used at the facility.

(3) An affidavit from each biogas supplier stating its intent to supply biogas to the renewable fuel producer or foreign ethanol producer, the quantity and energy content of the biogas that it intends to provide to the renewable fuel producer or foreign ethanol producer, and that the biogas will be derived solely from landfills, waste treatment plants, and/or waste digesters.

(4) If the producer intends to generate advanced biofuel RINs, estimates of the total amount of electricity used from the grid, the total amount of ethanol produced, and a calculation of the amount of electricity used from the grid per gallon of ethanol produced.

(5) If the producer intends to generate advanced biofuel RINs, a description of how the facility intends to demonstrate and document that not more than 0.15 kWh of grid electricity is used per gallon of ethanol produced, calculated on a per batch basis, at the time of RIN generation.

(B) [Reserved]

(x)

(A) For a producer of renewable fuel made from Arundo donax or Pennisetum purpureum per § 80.1426(f)(14)(i):

(1) A Risk Mitigation Plan (Plan) that demonstrates the growth of Arundo donax or Pennisetum purpureum will not pose a significant likelihood of spread beyond the planting area of the feedstock used for production of the renewable fuel. The Plan must identify and incorporate best management practices (BMPs) into the production, management, transport, collection, monitoring, and processing of the feedstock. To the extent practicable, the Risk Mitigation Plan should utilize a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) approach to examine each phase of the pathway to identify spread reduction steps. BMPs should include the development of mitigation strategies and plans to minimize escape and other impacts (e.g., minimize soil disturbance), incorporate desirable traits (e.g., sterility or reduced seed production), develop and implement dispersal mitigation protocols prior to cultivation, develop multiple year eradication controls. Eradication controls should follow an approach of early detection and rapid response (EDRR) to unintended spread. EDRR efforts should demonstrate the likelihood that invasions will be halted while still localized and identify and employ cooperative networks, communication forums, and consultation processes with federal, state, and local agencies. The Risk Mitigation Plan must provide for the following:

(i) Monitoring and reporting data for a period prior to planting that is sufficient to establish a baseline, through crop production, and extending beyond crop production for a sufficient period after the field is no longer used for feedstock production to ensure no remnants of giant reed or napier grass survive or spread.

(ii) Monitoring must include the area encompassing the feedstock growing areas, the transportation corridor between the growing areas and the renewable fuel production facility, and the renewable fuel production facility, extending to the distance of potential propagation of the feedstock species, or further if necessary.

(iii) Monitoring must reflect the likelihood of spread specific to the feedstock.

(iv) A closure plan providing for the destruction and removal of feedstock from the growing area upon abandonment by the feedstock grower or end of production.

(v) A plan providing for an independent third party who will audit the monitoring and reporting conducted in accordance with the Plan on an annual basis, subject to approval of a different frequency by EPA.

(2) A letter from the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) to the renewable fuel producer stating USDA's conclusions and the bases therefore regarding whether the Arundo donax or Pennisetum purpureum does or does not present a significant likelihood of spread beyond the planting area of the feedstock used for production of the renewable fuel as proposed by the producer. This letter shall also include USDA's recommendation of whether it is appropriate to require the use of a financial mechanism to ensure the availability of financial resources sufficient to cover reasonable potential remediation costs associated with the invasive spread of giant reed or napier grass beyond the intended planting areas. In coordination with USDA, EPA shall identify for the producer the appropriate USDA office from which the letter should originate.

(3) Identification of all federal, state, regional, and local requirements related to invasive species that are applicable for the feedstock at the growing site and at all points between the growing site and the fuel production site.

(4) A copy of all state and local growing permits held by the feedstock grower.

(5) A communication plan for notifying EPA's Office of Transportation and Air Quality, USDA, adjacent federal land management agencies, and any relevant state, tribal, regional, and local authorities as soon as possible after identification of the issue if the feedstock is detected outside planted area.

(6) A copy of the agreement between the feedstock grower and fuel producer establishing all rights and duties of the parties related to the Risk Mitigation Plan and any other activities and liability associated with the prevention of the spread of Arundo donax and/or Pennisetum purpureum outside of the intended planting area.

(7) A copy of the agreement between the fuel producer and an independent third party describing how the third party will audit the monitoring and reporting conducted in accordance with the Risk Mitigation Plan on an annual basis, subject to approval of a different timeframe by EPA.

(8) Information on the financial resources or other financial mechanism (such as a state-administered fund, bond, or certificate of deposit) that would be available to finance reasonable remediation activities associated with the potential spread of giant reed or napier grass beyond the intended planting areas, and information on whether it is necessary to have any further such resources or mechanism. EPA may require a demonstration that there is an adequate financial mechanism (such as a state-administered fund, bond, or certificate of deposit) to ensure the availability of financial resources sufficient to cover reasonable potential remediation costs associated with the spread of giant reed or napier grass beyond the intended planting areas.

(9) EPA may require additional information as appropriate.

(B) For a producer of renewable fuel made from Arundo donax or Pennisetum purpureum per § 80.1426(f)(14)(ii):

(1) Clear and compelling evidence, including information and supporting data, demonstrating that Arundo donax or Pennisetum purpureum does not present a significant likelihood of spread beyond the planting area of the feedstock used for production of the renewable fuel. Evidence must include data collected from similar environments (soils, temperatures, precipitation, USDA Hardiness Zones) as the proposed feedstock production project site and accepted by the scientific community. Such a demonstration should include consideration of the elements of a Risk Mitigation Plan set forth in paragraph (b)(1)(x)(A) of this section, fully disclose the potential invasiveness of the feedstock, provide a closure plan for the destruction and removal of feedstock from the growing area upon abandonment by the feedstock grower or end of production, and explain why a Risk Mitigation Plan is not needed to make the required determination.

(2) A letter from the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) to the renewable fuel producer stating USDA's conclusions and the bases therefore regarding whether the Arundo donax or Pennisetum purpureum does or does not present a significant likelihood of spread beyond the planting area of the feedstock used for production of the renewable fuel as proposed by the producer or importer. In coordination with USDA, EPA shall identify for the producer the appropriate USDA office from which the letter should originate.

(C) EPA may suspend a producer's registration for purposes of generating RINs for renewable fuel using Arundo donax or Pennisetum purpureum as a feedstock if such feedstock has spread beyond the intended planting area.

(xi) For a producer of fuel oil meeting paragraph (2) of the definition of heating oil in § 80.2:

(A) An affidavit from the producer of the fuel oil meeting paragraph (2) of the definition of “heating oil” in § 80.2 stating that the fuel oil for which RINs have been generated will be sold for the purposes of heating or cooling interior spaces of homes or buildings to control ambient climate for human comfort, and no other purpose.

(B) Affidavits from the final end user or users of the fuel oil stating that the fuel oil meeting paragraph (2) of the definition of “heating oil” in § 80.2 is being used or will be used for purposes of heating or cooling interior spaces of homes or buildings to control ambient climate for human comfort, and no other purpose, and acknowledging that any other use of the fuel oil would violate EPA regulations and subject the user to civil and/or criminal penalties under the Clean Air Act.

(xii) For a producer or importer of any renewable fuel other than ethanol, biodiesel, renewable gasoline, renewable diesel that meets the Grade No. 1–D or No. 2–D specification in ASTM D975 (incorporated by reference, see § 80.12), biogas, or renewable electricity, all the following:

(A) A description of the renewable fuel and how it will be blended to into gasoline or diesel fuel to produce a transportation fuel, heating oil or jet fuel that meets all applicable standards.

(B) A statement regarding whether the renewable fuel producer or importer will blend the renewable fuel into gasoline or diesel fuel or enter into a written contract for the sale and use of a specific quantity of the renewable fuel with a party who blends the fuel into gasoline or distillate fuel to produce a transportation fuel, heating oil, or jet fuel that meets all applicable standards under this part and 40 CFR part 1090.

(C) If the renewable fuel producer or importer enters into a written contract for the sale and use of a specific quantity of the renewable fuel with a party who blends the fuel into gasoline or distillate fuel to produce a transportation fuel, heating oil, or jet fuel, provide all the following:

(1) The name, location and contact information for the party that will blend the renewable fuel.

(2) A copy of the contract that requires the party to blend the renewable fuel into gasoline or diesel fuel to produce a transportation fuel, heating oil or jet fuel that meets all applicable standards.

(xiii)

(A) A renewable fuel producer seeking to generate D code 3 or D code 7 RINs, a foreign ethanol producer seeking to have its product sold as cellulosic biofuel after it is denatured, or a biointermediate producer seeking to have its biointermediate made into cellulosic biofuel, who intends to produce a single type of fuel using two or more feedstocks converted simultaneously, where at least one of the feedstocks does not have a minimum 75% average adjusted cellulosic content, and who uses only a thermochemical process to convert feedstock into renewable fuel, must provide all the following:

(1) Data showing the average adjusted cellulosic content of the feedstock(s) to be used to produce fuel or biointermediate, based on the average of at least three representative samples. Cellulosic content data must come from an analytical method certified by a voluntary consensus standards body or using a method that would produce reasonably accurate results as demonstrated through peer reviewed references provided to the third party engineer performing the engineering review at registration. Samples must be of representative feedstock from the primary feedstock supplier that will provide the renewable fuel or biointermediate producer with feedstock subsequent to registration.

(2) For renewable fuel and biointermediate producers who want to use a new feedstock(s) after initial registration, updates to their registration under paragraph (d) of this section indicating the average adjusted cellulosic content of the new feedstock.

(3) For renewable fuel producers already registered as of August 18, 2014, to produce a single type of fuel that qualifies for D code 3 or D code 7 RINs (or would do so after denaturing) using two or more feedstocks converted simultaneously using only a thermochemical process, the information specified in this paragraph (b)(1)(xiii)(A) shall be provided at the next required registration update under paragraph (d) of this section.

(B) A renewable fuel producer seeking to generate D code 3 or D code 7 RINs, a foreign ethanol producer seeking to have its product sold as cellulosic biofuel after it is denatured, or a biointermediate producer seeking to have its biointermediate made into cellulosic biofuel, who intends to produce a single type of fuel using two or more feedstocks converted simultaneously, where at least one of the feedstocks does not have a minimum 75% adjusted cellulosic content, and who uses a process other than a thermochemical process, excluding anerobic digestion, or a combination of processes to convert feedstock into renewable fuel or biointermediate, must provide all the following:

(1) The expected overall fuel or biointermediate yield, calculated as the total volume of fuel produced per batch (e.g., cellulosic biofuel plus all other fuel) divided by the total feedstock mass per batch on a dry weight basis (e.g., cellulosic feedstock plus all other feedstocks).

(2) The cellulosic Converted Fraction (CF) that will be used for generating RINs under § 80.1426(f)(3)(vi).

(3) Chemical analysis data supporting the calculated cellulosic Converted Fraction and a discussion of the possible variability that could be expected between reporting periods per § 80.1451(b)(1)(ii)(U)(1). Data used to calculate the cellulosic CF must be representative and obtained using an analytical method certified by a voluntary consensus standards body, or using a method that would produce reasonably accurate results as demonstrated through peer reviewed references provided to the third party engineer performing the engineering review at registration.

(4) A description and calculations showing how the data were used to determine the cellulosic Converted Fraction.

(5) For renewable fuel producers already registered as of August 18, 2014, to produce a single type of fuel that qualifies for D code 3 or D code 7 RINs (or would do so after denaturing) using two or more feedstocks converted simultaneously using a combination of processes or a process other than a thermochemical process, the information specified in this paragraph (b)(1)(xiii)(B) shall be provided at the next required registration update under paragraph (d) of this section.

(C) A renewable fuel producer seeking to generate D code 3 or D code 7 RINs or a biointermediate producer seeking to have its biointermediate made into cellulosic biofuel, who intends to produce biogas using two or more feedstocks converted simultaneously in an anaerobic digester, where at least one of the feedstocks does not have a minimum 75% adjusted cellulosic content, must supply the information specified in § 80.135(c)(10).

(xiv) For a producer of cellulosic biofuel made from energy cane, or a foreign renewable fuel producer making ethanol from energy cane and seeking to have it sold after denaturing as cellulosic biofuel, provide all of the following:

(A) Data showing that the average adjusted cellulosic content of each cane cultivar they intend to use is at least 75%, based on the average of at least three representative samples of each cultivar. Cultivars must be grown under normal growing conditions and consistent with acceptable farming practices. Samples must be of feedstock from a feedstock supplier that the fuel producer intends to use to supply feedstock for their production process and must represent the feedstock supplier's range of growing conditions and locations. Cellulosic content data must come from an analytical method certified by a voluntary consensus standards body or using a method that would produce reasonably accurate results as demonstrated through peer reviewed references provided to the third party engineer performing the engineering review at registration.

(B) Producers that want to change or add new cultivar(s) after initial registration must update their registration and provide EPA with data in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section demonstrating that the average adjusted cellulosic content for any new cultivar is at least 75%. Cultivars that do not meet this requirement are considered sugarcane for purposes of Table 1 to § 80.1426.

(xv) For a producer of cellulosic biofuel made from crop residue, a foreign ethanol producer making ethanol from crop residue and seeking to have it sold after denaturing as cellulosic biofuel, or a biointermediate producer producing a biointermediate for use in the production of a cellulosic biofuel made from crop residue, provide all the following information:

(A) A list of all feedstocks the producer intends to utilize as crop residue.

(B) A written justification which explains why each feedstock a producer lists according to paragraph (b)(1)(xv)(A) of this section meets the definition of crop residue.

(C) For producers already registered as of August 18, 2014 to produce a renewable fuel using crop residue, the information specified in this paragraph (b)(1)(xv) shall be provided at the next required registration update under paragraph (d) of this section.

(xvi) For FFA feedstock, the biointermediate producer must provide a description of how the biointermediate producer will determine FFA concentration.

(2) An independent third-party engineering review and written report and verification of the information provided pursuant to paragraph (b)(1) of this section and § 80.135, as applicable. The report and verification shall be based upon a site visit and review of relevant documents and shall separately identify each item required by paragraph (b)(1) of this section, describe how the independent third-party evaluated the accuracy of the information provided, state whether the independent third-party agrees with the information provided, and identify any exceptions between the independent third-party's findings and the information provided.

(i) The verifications required under this section must be conducted by a professional engineer, as specified in paragraphs (b)(2)(i)(A) and (b)(2)(i)(B) of this section, who is an independent third-party. The verifying engineer must be:

(A) For a domestic renewable fuel production facility, a foreign ethanol production facility, or a biointermediate production facility, a professional engineer who is licensed by an appropriate state agency in the United States, with professional work experience in the chemical engineering field or related to renewable fuel production.

(B) For a foreign renewable fuel or foreign biointermediate production facility, an engineer who is a foreign equivalent to a professional engineer licensed in the United States with professional work experience in the chemical engineering field or related to renewable fuel production.

(ii) To be considered an The independent third-party under this paragraph engineer and its contractors and subcontractors must meet the independence requirements specified in § 80.1471(b)(21): , (

A) The third-party shall not be operated by the renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer, or any subsidiary or employee of the renewable fuel producer foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer.

(B) The third-party shall be free from any interest in the renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer's business.

(C) The renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer shall be free from any interest in the third-party's business.

(D) Use of a third-party that is debarred, suspended, or proposed for debarment pursuant to the Government-wide Debarment and Suspension regulations, 40 CFR part 32, or the Debarment, Suspension and Ineligibility provisions of the Federal Acquisition Regulations, 48 CFR, part 9, subpart 9.4, shall be deemed noncompliance with the requirements of this section.

2), (4), (5), and (7) through (12).

(iii) The independent third-party shall retain all records pertaining to the verification required under this section for a period of five years from the date of creation and shall deliver such records to EPA upon request.

(iv) The renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer must retain records of the review and verification, as required in § 80.1454(b)(6) or (i)(4), as applicable.

(v) The third-party must provide to EPA documentation of his or her qualifications as part of the engineering review, including proof of appropriate professional license or foreign equivalent.

(vi) Owners and operators of facilities described in § 80.1403(c) and (d) must submit the engineering review no later than December 31, 2010.

(vii) Reports required under this paragraph (b)(2) must be electronically submitted directly to EPA by an independent third-party engineer using forms and procedures established by EPA.

(viii) The independent third-party engineer must conduct engineering reviews as follows:

(A)

(1) To verify the accuracy of the information provided in paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section, the independent third-party engineer must conduct independent calculations of the throughput rate-limiting step in the production process, take digital photographs of all process units depicted in the process flow diagram during the site visit, and certify that all process unit connections are in place and functioning based on the site visit.

(2) Digital photographs of a process unit are not required if the third-party engineer submits documentation demonstrating why they were unable to access certain locations due to access issues or safety concerns. EPA may not accept a registration if EPA is unable to determine whether the facility is capable of producing the requested renewable fuel, biointermediate, biogas, or RNG, as applicable, due to the lack of sufficient digital photographs of process units for the facility.

(B) To verify the accuracy of the information in paragraph (b)(1)(iii) of this section, the independent third-party engineer must obtain independent documentation from parties in contracts with the producer for any co-product sales or disposals. The independent third-party engineer may use representative sampling as specified in 40 CFR 1090.1805 to verify co-product sales or disposals.

(C) To verify the accuracy of the information provided in paragraph (b)(1)(iv) of this section, the independent third-party engineer must obtain independent documentation from all process heat fuel suppliers of the process heat fuel supplied to the facility. The independent third-party engineer may use representative sampling as specified in 40 CFR 1090.1805 to verify fuel suppliers.

(D) To verify the accuracy of the information provided in paragraph (b)(1)(v) of this section, the independent third-party engineer must conduct independent calculations of the Converted Fraction that will be used to generate RINs.

(ix) The independent third-party engineer must provide to EPA documentation demonstrating that a site visit, as specified in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, occurred. Such documentation must include digital photographs with date and geographic coordinates taken during the site visit and a description of what is depicted in the photographs.

(x) The independent third-party engineer must sign, date, and submit to EPA with the written report the following conflict of interest statement:

“I certify that the engineering review and written report required and submitted under 40 CFR 80.1450(b)(2) was conducted and prepared by me, or under my direction or supervision, in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gather and evaluate the information upon which the engineering review was conducted and the written report is based. I further certify that the engineering review was conducted and this written report was prepared pursuant to the requirements of 40 CFR part 80 and all other applicable auditing, competency, independence, impartiality, and conflict of interest standards and protocols. Based on my personal knowledge and experience, and inquiry of personnel involved, the information submitted herein is true, accurate, and complete. I am aware that there are significant penalties for submitting false information, including the possibility of fines and imprisonment for knowing violations.”

(c) Importers. Importers of renewable fuel must provide EPA the information specified under 40 CFR 1090.805, if such information has not already been provided under the provisions of this part and must receive an EPA-issued company identification number prior to generating or owning RINs. Registration information must be submitted and accepted by EPA by July 1, 2010, or 60 days prior to an importer importing any renewable fuel with assigned RINs or generating any RINs for renewable fuel, whichever dates comes later.

(d) Registration updates.

(1)

(i)

(A) Any renewable fuel producer or any foreign ethanol producer that makes changes to their facility that will allow them to produce renewable fuel or use a biointermediate that is not reflected in the producer's registration information on file with EPA must update their registration information and submit a copy of an updated independent third-party engineering review on file with EPA at least 60 days prior to producing the new type of renewable fuel.

(B) Any biointermediate producer who makes changes to their biointermediate production facility that will allow them to produce a biointermediate for use in the production of a renewable fuel that is not reflected in the biointermediate producer's registration information on file with EPA must update their registration information and submit a copy of an updated independent third-party engineering review on file with EPA at least 60 days prior to producing the new biointermediate for use in the production of the renewable fuel.

(ii) The renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer may also submit an addendum to the independent third-party engineering review on file with EPA provided the addendum meets all the requirements in paragraph (b)(2) of this section and verifies for EPA the most up-to-date information at the producer's existing facility.

(2)

(i) Any renewable fuel producer or any foreign ethanol producer that makes any other changes to a facility that will affect the producer's registration information but will not affect the renewable fuel category for which the producer is registered per paragraph (b) of this section must update their registration information 7 days prior to the change.

(ii)

(A) Any biointermediate producer that makes any other changes to a biointermediate production facility that will affect the biointermediate producer's registration must update their registration information 7 days prior to the change.

(B)

(1) Any biointermediate producer that intends to change the designated renewable fuel production facility under paragraph (b)(1)(ii)(B)(1) of this section for one of its biointermediate production facilities must update their registration information with EPA at least 30 days prior to transferring the biointermediate to the newly designated renewable fuel production facility.

(2) A biointermediate producer may only change the designated renewable fuel production facility under paragraph (b)(1)(ii)(B)(1) of this section for each biointermediate production facility one time per calendar year unless EPA, in its sole discretion, allows the biointermediate producer to change the designated renewable fuel production facility more frequently.

(3) All renewable fuel producers, foreign ethanol producers, and biointermediate producers must update registration information and submit an updated independent third-party engineering review as follows:

(i) For all renewable fuel producers and foreign ethanol producers registered in calendar year 2010, the updated registration information and independent third-party engineering review must be submitted to EPA by January 31, 2013, and by January 31 of no less frequent than every third calendar year thereafter.

(ii) For all renewable fuel producers, foreign ethanol producers, and biointermediate producers registered in any calendar year after 2010, the updated registration information and independent third-party engineering review must be submitted to EPA by January 31 of no less frequent than every third calendar year after the date of the first independent third-party engineering review site visit conducted under paragraph (b)(2) of this section. For example, if a renewable fuel producer arranged for a third-party engineer to conduct the first site visit on December 15, 2023, the three-year independent third-party engineer review must be submitted by January 31, 2027.

(iii) For all renewable fuel producers, the updated independent third-party engineering review must include all the following:

(A) The engineering review and written report and verification required by paragraph (b)(2) of this section.

(B) A detailed review of the renewable fuel producer's calculations and assumptions used to determine V_RIN of a representative sample of batches of each type of renewable fuel produced since the last registration. This representative sampling must adhere to all the following, as applicable:

(1) The representative sample must be selected in accordance with the sample size guidelines set forth at 40 CFR 1090.1805.

(2) For updated independent third-party engineering reviews submitted after January 31, 2024, the representative sample must be selected from batches of renewable fuel produced through at least the second quarter of the calendar year prior to the applicable January 31 deadline.

(iv) For biointermediate producers, in addition to conducting the engineering review and written report and verification required by paragraph (b)(2) of this section, the updated independent third-party engineering review must include a detailed review of the biointermediate producer's calculations used to determine the renewable biomass and cellulosic renewable biomass proportions, as required to be reported to EPA under § 80.1451(j), of a representative sample of batches of each type of biointermediate produced since the last registration. The representative sample must be selected in accordance with the sample size guidelines set forth at 40 CFR 1090.1805.

(v) For updated independent third-party engineering reviews submitted after January 31, 2024, independent third-party engineers must conduct site visits required under this paragraph (d) no sooner than July 1 of the calendar year prior to the applicable January 31 deadline.

(vi) For updated independent third-party engineering reviews submitted after January 31, 2024, the site visits required under this paragraph (d) must occur when the renewable fuel production facility is producing renewable fuel or when the biointermediate production facility is producing biointermediates.

(vii) If a renewable fuel producer, foreign ethanol producer, or biointermediate producer updates their registration information and independent third-party engineering review prior to the next applicable January 31 deadline, and the registration information and independent third-party engineering review meet all applicable requirements under paragraphs (b)(2) and (d)(3)(iii) of this section, the next required registration information and independent third-party engineering review update is due by January 31 of every third calendar year after the date of the updated independent third-party engineering review site visit.

(e) Any party who owns RINs, intends to own RINs, or intends to allow another party to separate RINs as per § 80.1440, but who is not covered by paragraph (a), (b), or (c) of this section, must provide EPA the information specified under 40 CFR 1090.805, if such information has not already been provided under the provisions of this part and must receive an EPA-issued company identification number prior to owning any RINs. Registration information must be submitted at least 30 days prior to RIN ownership.

(f) Registration for any facility claiming an exemption under § 80.1403(c) or (d), must be submitted by July 1, 2013. EPA may in its sole discretion waive this requirement if it determines that the information submitted in any later registration can be verified by EPA in the same manner as would have been possible with a timely submission.

(g) Independent third-party auditors. Any independent third-party auditor described in § 80.1471 must register with the EPA as an independent third-party auditor and receive an EPA issued company identification number prior to conducting quality assurance audits pursuant to § 80.1472. Registration information must be submitted at least 30 days prior to conducting audits of renewable fuel production or biointermediate production facilities. The independent third-party auditor must provide to the EPA all the following:

(1) The information specified under 40 CFR 1090.805, if such information has not already been provided under the provisions of this part.

(2) Documentation of professional qualifications as follows:

(i) For a professional engineer as described in § 80.1450(b)(2)(i)(A) and (b)(2)(i)(B).

(ii) For a domestic independent third-party auditor or a foreign independent third-party auditor, a certified public accountant who is licensed by an appropriate state agency in the United States.

(iii) For a foreign independent third-party auditor, an accountant who is a foreign equivalent to a certified public accountant licensed in the United States.

(3) Documentation of professional liability insurance as described in § 80.1471(c).

(4) Any quality assurance plans as described in § 80.1469.

(5) List of audited producers. Name, address, and company and facility identification numbers of all renewable fuel production or biointermediate production facilities that the independent third-party auditor intends to audit under § 80.1472.

(6) Audited producer associations. An affidavit, or electronic consent, from each renewable fuel producer, foreign renewable fuel producer, or biointermediate producer stating its intent to have the independent third-party auditor conduct a quality assurance audit of any of the renewable fuel producer's or foreign renewable fuel producer's facilities.

(7) Independence affidavits. An affidavit stating that an independent third-party auditor and its contractors and subcontractors are independent, as described in § 80.1471(b), of any renewable fuel producer, foreign renewable fuel producer, or biointermediate producer.

(8) The name and contact information for each person employed (or under contract or subcontract) by the independent third-party auditor to conduct audits or verify RINs, as well as the name and contact information for any professional engineer and certified public accountant performing the review.

(9) Registration updates.

(i) Any independent third-party auditor who makes changes to its quality assurance plan(s) that will allow it to audit new renewable fuel production or biointermediate production facilities that is not reflected in the independent third-party auditor's registration information on file with EPA must update its registration information and submit a copy of an updated QAP on file with EPA at least 60 days prior to auditing new renewable fuel production or biointermediate production facilities.

(ii) Any independent third-party auditor who makes any changes other than those specified in paragraphs (g)(9)(i), (iii), and (iv) of this section that will affect the third-party auditor's registration information must update its registration information 7 days prior to the change.

(iii) Independent third-party auditors must update their QAPs at least 60 days prior to verifying RINs generated or biointermediate produced by a renewable fuel or biointermediate production facility, respectively, for a pathway not covered in the independent third-party auditor's QAPs.

(iv) Independent third-party auditors must update their QAPs at least 60 days prior to verifying RINs generated or biointermediate produced by any renewable fuel or biointermediate production facility not identified in the independent third-party auditor's existing registration.

(10) Registration renewal. Registrations for independent third-party auditors expire December 31 of each calendar year. Previously approved registrations will renew automatically if all the following conditions are met:

(i) The independent third-party auditor resubmits all information, updated as necessary, described in § 80.1450(g)(1) through (g)(7) no later than October 31 before the next calendar year.

(ii) The independent third-party auditor submits an affidavit affirming that they have only verified RINs and biointermediates using a QAP approved under § 80.1469 and notified all appropriate parties of all potentially invalid RINs as described in § 80.1471(d).

(iii) The auditor has not received a notice of deficiency from the EPA regarding its registration renewal materials.

(11) Revocation of registration.

(i) EPA may issue a notice of intent to revoke the registration of a third-party auditor if EPA determines that the auditor has failed to fulfill any requirement of this subpart. The notice of intent shall include an explanation of the reasons for the proposed revocation.

(ii) Within 60 days of receipt of the notice of intent to revoke, the independent third-party auditor may submit written comments concerning the notice, including but not limited to a demonstration of compliance with the requirements which provide the basis for the proposed revocation. Communications should be sent to the EMTS support line ([e-mail]). EPA shall review and consider any such submission before taking final action concerning the proposed revocation.

(iii) If the auditor fails to respond in writing within 60 days to the notice of intent to revoke, the revocation shall become final by operation of law and EPA shall notify the independent third-party auditor of such revocation.

(h) Deactivation of registration.

(1) EPA may deactivate the registration of any party required to register under this section § 80.1450, using the process in paragraph (h)(2) of this section, if any of the following criteria are met:

(i) Unless the party is a biointermediate producer, the party has reported no activity in EMTS for twenty-four consecutive months.

(ii) The party has failed to comply with the registration requirements of this section.

(iii) The party has failed to submit any required notification or report within 30 days of the required submission date under § 80.1451.

(iv) The attest engagement required under § 80.1464 has not been received within 30 days of the required submission date.

(v) The party fails to pay a penalty or to perform any requirements under the terms of a court order, administrative order, consent decree, or administrative settlement between the party and EPA.

(vi) The party submits false or incomplete information.

(vii) The party denies EPA access or prevents EPA from completing authorized activities under sections 114 or 208 of the Clean Air Act despite presenting a warrant or court order. This includes a failure to provide reasonable assistance.

(viii) The party fails to keep or provide the records required by this subpart.

(ix) The party otherwise circumvents the intent of the Clean Air Act or of this subpart.

(2) Except as provided in paragraph (h)(3) of this section, EPA will use the following process whenever it decides to deactivate the registration of a party:

(i) EPA will provide written notification to the responsible corporate officer identifying the reasons or deficiencies for which EPA intends to deactivate the party's registration. The party will have 30 calendar days from the date of the notification to correct the deficiencies identified or explain why there is no need for corrective action.

(ii) If the basis for EPA's notice of intent to deactivate registration is the absence of EMTS activity under paragraph (h)(1)(i) of this section, a stated intent to engage in activity reported through EMTS will be sufficient to avoid deactivation of registration.

(iii) If the party does not correct identified deficiencies under paragraphs (h)(1)(ii) through (ix) of this section, or does not provide an adequate explanation regarding why such correction is not necessary within the time allotted for response, EPA may deactivate the party's registration without further notice to the party.

(3) In instances of willfulness or those in which public health, interest, or safety requires otherwise, EPA may deactivate the registration of the party without any notice to the party. EPA will provide written notification to the responsible corporate officer identifying the reasons EPA deactivated the registration of the party.

(4) Impact of registration deactivation:

(i) A party whose registration is deactivated shall still be liable for violation of any requirements of this subpart.

(ii) A party whose registration is deactivated will not be listed on any public list of actively registered parties that is maintained by EPA.

(iii) A party whose registration is deactivated will not have access to any of the electronic reporting systems associated with the renewable fuel standard program, including the EPA Moderated Transaction System (EMTS).

(iv) A party whose registration is deactivated must submit any corrections of deficiencies to EPA on forms, and following policies, established by EPA.

(v) If a party whose registration has been deactivated wishes to re-register, they may seek to do so by submitting a new registration pursuant to the requirements in paragraphs (a) through (c), (e), and (g) of this section, as applicable.

(i) Registration procedures.

(1) Registration shall be on forms, and following policies, established by EPA.

(2) English language registrations—Any document submitted to EPA under this section must be submitted in English, or shall include an English translation.

[75 FR 14863, Mar. 26, 2010, as amended at 75 FR 26043, May 10, 2010; 77 FR 1356, Jan. 9, 2012; 77 FR 74606, Dec. 17, 2012; 78 FR 41714, July 11, 2013; 78 FR 62471, Oct. 22, 2013; 79 FR 42163, July 18, 2014; 79 FR 42115, July 18, 2014; 85 FR 7077, Feb. 6, 2020; 85 FR 78467, Dec. 4, 2020; 87 FR 39665, July 1, 2022; 88 FR 44586, July 12, 2023; 88 FR 51239, Aug. 3, 2023; 88 FR 44587, July 12, 2023]