Certifications
Fulcrum, its process and Fulcrum Fuel™ have received a number of certifications relating to its environmental benefits from government agencies, including:
U.S. Department of Energy
Deputy Secretary for Energy Daniel Poneman said, "Advanced biomass transportation fuels have the potential to provide a reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional fuel sources. By advancing technologies that reduce our carbon emissions, this partnership agency is demonstrating that by protecting our energy and environmental security, we will also enhance our national security."
California Air Resource Board
CARB continues to support the growth of low carbon fuels as well as renewables to reduce carbon footprint. In December 2015, Fulcrum received from CARB a provisional route certification under the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) to produce FT synthetic crude oil from MSW. As part of its certification, CARB determined that Fulcrum's CI carbon score (Carbon Intensity) based on a GHG life cycle analysis has a negative value, making it the best alternative available on the market.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
The EPA implements the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) program in consultation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Energy. Fulcrum’s and Blue Arrow’s fuel qualifies as a FT synthesis crude from MSW (cellulosic biofuel) based on how it is produced and the resulting substantial emissions reductions.
U.S. Department of Agriculture
After cooperating with the completion and review of the Environmental Impact Assessment for Fulcrum’s Sierra Biofuels plant, the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was issued on December 5, 2014. On September 4, USDA announced a loan guarantee from the Assistance Program of 105 million dollars to Fulcrum BioEnergy for the construction of this facility. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said during one of his speeches that "This represents a huge step forward in the development of clean, renewable, job-creating American fuels. The nation is entering a new energy era that will make us more energy independent, reduce carbon pollution and strengthen our economy..."
U.S. Department of Defense
The DoD provided a substantial grant for the construction of Fulcrum’s Sierra Biofuels plant in Reno, Nevada. The grant was supported by tests carried out on the final product, where the post-refining mixture was made and used as jet fuel suitable for military aircraft. After supporting the preparation and review of the Environmental Impact Assessment for the plant in Sierra, the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was issued on November 25, 2014.
Nevada Department of Conservation & Natural Resources
After cooperating with the completion and review of the Environmental Impact Assessment for the Fulcrum’s Sierra Biofuels plant, a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was issued.