As I predicted, 2024 truly became the year of 45Z. This year, we learned an incredible amount about the 45Z program and its emerging rules from Washington, D.C. At Continuum Ag, we committed ourselves to spreading awareness of this transformative program while investing heavily to ensure our readiness to help farmers and the biofuel industry seize this market opportunity.
Key Insights from Washington, D.C.
While we still don’t have all the details about the 45Z rules, we expect these to emerge within the first 20 days of 2025. Despite the incomplete picture, this year provided invaluable insights into Washington’s dedication to 45Z. We witnessed bipartisan legislation introduced in both the House and Senate aiming to extend 45Z, along with engagement from the Ways and Means Committee seeking public feedback. Furthermore, the USDA has demonstrated significant support by proposing rules that have been under White House review since December 6th. Continuum Ag actively participated in this process, offering both written and oral feedback to ensure the agricultural community’s voice was heard.
Building Awareness and Momentum
Continuum Ag took a leading role in spreading the word about 45Z. Throughout 2024, we’ve seen an extraordinary level of interest across the agriculture and biofuels sectors. I personally spoke at 52 in-person events, and our team produced numerous webinars and podcasts to educate and inform. This effort has not gone unnoticed—we’ve been featured in countless articles and media stories exploring the financial and environmental implications of 45Z.
It’s also been exciting to see others join the conversation. Competitors have emerged, ethanol companies are earning IRS approval to participate, and new initiatives around 45Z are gaining traction. We welcome this competition, as we see abundance and opportunity in this growing space, and we look forward to the opportunity to collaborate.
Our Commitment to Innovation and Farmers
This year, Continuum Ag finalized the first MRV (Measurement, Reporting & Verification) protocol for on-farm Carbon Intensity (CI) Scores, marking a significant milestone. We submitted our first project for verification with EcoEngineers, which is on track for completion by February 15, 2025. Additionally, we made a groundbreaking decision to offer farmers their baseline CI Scores completely FREE of charge through our software, TopSoil.ag. To date, we’ve scored 350 million bushels, ensuring farmers are well-prepared to navigate the CI Certification process.
Looking Ahead
While 2024 marked incredible progress, there’s more work to be done. The anticipated release of 45Z guidance in early 2025 places us at the starting line of a transformative era. We’re ready to tackle the opportunities and challenges ahead, with all hands on deck. The ripple effect that 45Z can have is going to change global agriculture forever, and we’re excited to be a part of it.
We’re grateful for your continued support and excited to share more updates soon. Wishing you the very best in the new year!