Clean Fuels Conference Emphasizes 'Unity Drives Growth'

Biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel producers must remain united to build on recent growth, says industry leader.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:31pm

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The Clean Fuels Conference in Orlando, Florida highlighted the need for unity among biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel producers and stakeholders to continue expanding these clean fuel sectors in the U.S. Clean Fuels Alliance America CEO Donnell Rehagen said that positive results in 2025 showed the power of aligning on goals like Renewable Volume Obligations, despite facing challenges like unsettled regulations and questions about tax credits.

Why it matters

The clean fuels industry has seen significant growth in recent years, but producers must work together to overcome regulatory uncertainty and build on that momentum. Maintaining a united front is crucial for the industry to continue expanding biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel production and usage across the country.

The details

According to Rehagen, clean fuel producers persevered through a year that saw slower production amidst unsettled regulations, including questions about the 45Z tax credits and the possibility of Renewable Fuel Standard exemptions for small refineries. However, 'positive results from last year showed what happens when we set aside some differences and work together,' Rehagen said. 'When biodiesel and renewable diesel producers joined forces with oil and gas refiners who've invested in our space, and farmers, when we aligned on RVO goals, we saw something powerful emerge.'

  • The Clean Fuels Conference took place in Orlando, Florida on January 27, 2026.

The players

Donnell Rehagen

CEO of Clean Fuels Alliance America.

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What they’re saying

“Positive results from last year showed what happens when we set aside some differences and work together. When biodiesel and renewable diesel producers joined forces with oil and gas refiners who've invested in our space, and farmers, when we aligned on RVO goals, we saw something powerful emerge.”

— Donnell Rehagen, CEO, Clean Fuels Alliance America (NAFB.com)

The takeaway

The clean fuels industry has demonstrated the power of unity, but must continue working together to overcome regulatory challenges and build on recent growth in biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel production across the United States.