Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.2144 - No Fuel Credits for Batteries Act of 2025 (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R.2144, the "No Fuel Credits for Batteries Act of 2025," aims to prevent the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from authorizing the generation of credits (eRINs) for electricity derived from renewable fuel when used in transportation. The bill explicitly prohibits the use or transfer of any such credits generated before the enactment of the Act. It references sections of the Clean Air Act to define 'renewable fuel' and 'transportation fuel'.

Expected Effects

The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to disallow the use of eRINs for meeting renewable fuel volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Program. This could impact the economic viability of electric vehicles powered by renewable energy sources, as it removes a potential incentive mechanism. It may also lead to adjustments in the renewable fuel market and affect the strategies of companies involved in renewable fuel production and distribution.

Potential Benefits

  • Potentially reduces complexity in the Renewable Fuel Program by clarifying eligible fuel sources.
  • May prevent unintended expansion of the program beyond its original intent.
  • Could lead to a more focused approach on traditional biofuels.
  • May reduce potential for fraud or abuse related to eRINs.
  • Could stabilize the market for existing renewable fuel producers.

Potential Disadvantages

  • May disincentivize the use of renewable electricity in transportation.
  • Could hinder the growth of the electric vehicle market by removing a potential financial incentive.
  • May negatively impact companies investing in renewable electricity for transportation.
  • Could slow down the transition to a more sustainable transportation sector.
  • Potentially increases reliance on traditional biofuels, which may have their own environmental concerns.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill appears to align with the legislative powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 1 of the Constitution, which vests all legislative powers in the Congress. The bill addresses environmental regulations, which fall under the purview of laws necessary and proper for carrying into execution the powers vested by the Constitution. There is no apparent conflict with specific constitutional rights or limitations.

Impact Assessment: Things You Care About

This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).