Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs)

Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) are credits used in the United States to encourage the use of cleaner, renewable fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel. They are a digital “proof” that a certain amount of renewable fuel has been produced and blended into gasoline or diesel. Fuel refiners and importers must collect enough RINs each year to meet Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) requirements. Companies that produce renewable fuels create RINs, which can then be bought and sold in a marketplace. This system helps promote lower-carbon fuels while giving fuel companies flexibility in how they meet environmental regulations.