Kent Hartwig Email Address

Director, State Government Affairs

Renewable Energy Group, Inc. is a leading North American biodiesel producer with a nationwide distribution and logistics system. Utilizing an integrated value chain model, Renewable Energy Group is focused on converting natural fats, oils and greases into advanced biofuels and on converting diverse feedstocks into renewable chemicals. With 257 million gallons of annual nameplate production capacity at biorefineries across the country, REG is a proven biodiesel partner in the distillate marketplace. For more than a decade, REG has been a reliable supplier of biodiesel which meets or exceeds ASTM quality specifications. REG sells REG-9000 biodiesel to distributors so Americans can have cleaner burning fuels that help diversify the energy complex and increase energy security. REG-9000 biodiesel is distributed in most states in the U.S.

Since my junior year in high school, I knew I was destined for a career in government affairs. That year happened to be during an election season, and as we debated and learned about the presidential election, my fascination for the U.S. government grew exponentially. While majoring in Political Science at Iowa State University, my internships at the Iowa Senate eventually led to a staff position in the Minnesota Senate, and later as a lobbyist. With 23 years of legislative experience, I have worked as an advocate across the U.S. and primarily in Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and the federal level. I have successfully passed legislation that improved veterans' lives, reduced carbon emissions, established a local foods initiative, and improved emergency communications. The following are a few of my most recent career highlights: LEGISLATION * 2021: Participated in the regulatory process for implementing the Washington Clean Fuel Standard and expanding the Oregon Clean Fuel Program. * 2020: Passed a Clean Fuels Standard in Washington State. * 2019-2022: Exempted biodiesel from a 6 cent per gallon export tax on biodiesel and the City of Seattle’s 24 cent tax on home heating oil. * 2016: Passed a 7-year extension of Iowa’s biodiesel retail incentives and the Iowa Renewable Chemical Tax Credit. PUBLIC AFFAIRS * Secured the Louisiana Industrial Tax Exemption Program and a $5M performance based economic development grant for a major expansion at REG Geismar. RECOGNITION * Awarded highest company awards for leading in multiple efforts including contributing to the construction of a wind turbine at the REG Albert Lea biodiesel plant; successfully passing a Clean Fuel Standard in Washington State; and for an Iowa Executive Order requiring the state to purchase diesel engines – supported by engine manufacturing – to use at least a 20% blend of biodiesel. I am always interested in hearing from former colleagues, managers, and peers in my field, so feel free to contact me if you would like to connect.