Expert Witness – Renewable Diesel

What is a Renewable Diesel Expert?

Renewable diesel, also known as green diesel or second-generation biodiesel, is a type of biofuel derived from renewable feedstocks such as vegetable oils, animal fats, and waste oils through processes like hydrotreating or hydrocracking. A renewable diesel expert is a professional who possesses specialized knowledge and expertise in renewable diesel production, technology, regulations, and market trends.

Renewable Diesel Expert Qualifications

A renewable diesel expert will normally have a bachelor’s degree or higher in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, biochemical engineering, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field.  Many have advanced degrees, such as a master’s or PhD, which may be preferred for more specialized expert witness roles.  The renewable diesel expert will also have significant experience in renewable energy, biofuels, and/or petroleum refining, including experience as a process engineer, research scientist, production manager, or regulatory affairs specialist. These experts should also have proficiency in process simulation, chemical engineering principles, and data analysis techniques, and have a familiarity with regulations and standards related to renewable fuels – particularly renewable diesel.

The Renewable Diesel Expert Witness

A renewable diesel expert often conducts technical analysis of the case, including reviewing relevant documents, data, and evidence related to renewable diesel production, quality standards, environmental impact, or regulatory compliance, and can then offer expert opinions on matters such as renewable diesel production processes, feedstock selection, refining techniques, or environmental considerations. They can assess compliance with industry standards, regulations, and best practices, and provide opinions on whether the parties have followed proper procedures. These experts can evaluate potential risks associated with renewable diesel operations, such as safety hazards, environmental impacts, or regulatory violations, and assess whether reasonable precautions were taken to mitigate these risks.  The testimony of a renewable diesel expert can clarify technical aspects of the case for judges and juries.

Conclusion

Overall, a renewable diesel expert often plays a crucial role in litigation by providing impartial, authoritative analysis and testimony on technical matters related to renewable diesel production, regulation, and impact, helping ensure fair and informed adjudication of legal disputes. Their expertise can also be valuable not only in trials, but also in settlement negotiations, where their objective assessments of technical issues can help facilitate the resolution of disputes.

At Lee Enterprises Consulting, our experts are the top specialists in their fields, and expert witness engagements are only a small part of their professional work. We conduct generalized training for all our experts who want to serve as expert witnesses, ensuring they understand their role in a proceeding. We also check with them for any conflicts before an agreement is accepted, and ensure they comprehend Daubert expert witness qualifications and the relationship they will have with the hiring attorneys.

About Lee Enterprises Consulting

Lee Enterprises Consulting has over 180 experts that can help navigate your bioeconomy needs. If you need assistance with your renewable diesel project(s), please contact us.