Biofuel Subsidies

Biofuel production and consumption has soared over the last decade. This expansion has not been solely in response to market forces; rather, government policies, such as subsidies and mandated use of biofuels, have been key factors. Government support for biofuels has been driven by the need to address concerns related to the environment, energy security, and rural development. However, the cost-effectiveness of achieving these goals under current subsidy schemes is often low.

Research

Biofuels - The State of Play, 2012

This paper summarizes and discusses policy literature on the state of play of the over US$ 20 billion in subsidies for biofuel production and consumption. In particular, it examines the influence of three dynamic factors: the “food versus fuel” debate, advanced biofuels developments and the austerity policies necessitated by the financial and economic crisis.

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Biofuels - At What Cost?

The Biofuels - At What Cost? series of reports identifies and quantifies biofuel subsidies in a number of developed and developing countries. These reports offer some of the most comprehensive and robust estimates of biofuel subsidies currently available. 

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Subsidies to Different Energy Types: Fossil Fuels, Renewables, Nuclear and Biofuels

These studies review knowledge to date on the scale of subsidies to electric power and to transport. They summarize estimates of subsidies to fossil-fuels, renewable power, nuclear power and biofuels, and discuss how subsidies to different energy types might be compared.

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Biofuels Policy Briefs

Policy briefs on biofuels subsidies.

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Biofuel Resources

Resources for identifying, measuring and assessing biofuel subsidies.

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