Big Boost for Biodiesel: What the Latest RFS Decision Means for Kansas Soybean Farmers

The contents of this blog come from an interview conducted with Brett Neibling, Kansas Soybean Association President.

Brett Neibling - Kansas Soybeans

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There’s a renewed sense of excitement across farm country following a major announcement tied to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS)—and for Kansas soybean producers, it could mean new opportunities and a stronger domestic market.

Last week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released updated Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs), significantly increasing the expected volume of biodiesel and renewable fuel production. The jump came in higher than many in the industry anticipated, signaling a major shift in demand.

For soybean growers, that demand matters.

“This has been a long process,” said Brett Neibling, president of the Kansas Soybean Association. “But seeing that kind of increase—more than what anyone really expected—is great news. It creates a real opportunity for expanded biodiesel production right here in the United States.”

A Win for Farmers—and Rural Kansas

The Kansas Soybean Association has long advocated for strengthening the RFS, and this latest decision reflects years of effort. At its core, the push has always been about building a more stable and competitive domestic market.

For farmers, that stability is critical.

Agriculture markets—especially international ones—can be unpredictable. Having a stronger domestic demand for soybeans, particularly through biodiesel production, offers another outlet for producers.

“We don’t control the markets,” Neibling said. “So having more options—whether that’s exports or domestic demand—gives farmers more opportunity.”

That opportunity doesn’t just stop at the farm gate.

With soybean crush facilities expanding in Kansas, including newer plants in the state, the increased demand also brings economic benefits to rural communities. These facilities create jobs, support local economies, and allow more soybeans to be processed closer to where they’re grown.

“It’s not just about selling whole beans anymore,” Neibling added. “It’s about creating value here at home and giving people a reason to stay and work in rural Kansas.”

Can Farmers Keep Up?

With such a large increase in demand, one question naturally follows: Can U.S. farmers meet it?

According to Neibling, the answer is yes.

Advancements in seed genetics and farming practices have significantly improved soybean yields over the past several decades. Today’s farmers are producing more bushels per acre than ever before.

“We can grow a lot of soybeans here in Kansas,” he said. “With the technology and genetics we have today, I don’t see this being a problem. We’re capable of meeting that demand.”

Policy Still Plays a Big Role

While the increased RVOs are encouraging, there’s still some uncertainty about what comes next.

Much of the renewable fuels market is shaped by government policy, meaning future growth will depend on decisions made at both the federal and state levels.

“That’s probably one of the more frustrating parts,” Neibling noted. “So much of this market is driven by policy rather than purely by supply and demand.”

Still, the outlook remains optimistic.

If current production levels can be maintained—and if policy continues to support renewable fuels—this could represent long-term growth for soybean producers and rural economies alike.

Looking Ahead

For now, the mood among Kansas soybean farmers is one of excitement.

“It felt like you could hear the cheers across the countryside when the news came out,” Neibling said. “This has been a long time coming.”

After years of advocacy, conversations with policymakers, and investments in infrastructure, the increased RFS volumes are being seen as a meaningful step forward.

And for Kansas agriculture, it’s a reminder of what’s possible when market opportunity and policy align.