The US Environmental Protection Agency has approved oil from CoverCress for renewable fuel production. CoverCress is a winter oilseed crop developed by CoverCress Inc. The approval falls under the federal Renewable Fuel Standard program. It gives the crop access to the US biofuel market. It also supports plans to expand commercial production.
Under the approved pathways, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel made from CoverCress oil will qualify for D4 Renewable Identification Numbers, known as RINs. Renewable naphtha and liquefied petroleum gas from the same feedstock will qualify for D5 RINs. Fuel market participants use these credits to meet their RFS obligations. That makes the approval a key factor in the crop’s commercial viability.
CoverCress is designed to fit between major cash crops in a rotation. Farmers plant it after harvesting their main crop in the fall. They harvest it before spring planting begins. This allows an extra crop and income stream from the same land. It also keeps soil covered through the winter months.
CoverCress Inc. is preparing for its first commercial crush in early 2027. The EPA approval removes a significant regulatory barrier. It clears the way for a new supply chain spanning farmers, grain handlers, processors and renewable fuel producers.
The approval comes as US biofuel demand continues to grow. CoverCress could expand the country’s domestic supply of oilseed feedstocks. It offers producers an alternative to traditional sources such as soybean and rapeseed oil.
