It was a pleasure for me to host a half-dozen past presidents of the NCAC two Fridays ago at Chinatown Garden to hear their views on how the business has changed.

I want to tell you about two events we have planned next month.

Our monthly lunch will be an affordable brown bag event on Friday, January 17, at 918 F Street NW, 4th Floor North, in the history National Union Building

Chris Bliley, vice president of regulatory affairs at trade association Growth Energy, will tell us about the evolution of the Renewable Fuels Standard, always a key motor fuels issue. 

Chris will update us on Renewable Volume Obligations, Renewable Identification Numbers and the small refinery exemption. He will also talk about E15 blending, E10 in Mexico and other ethanol production drivers. Registration is open. 

The evolution and development of the carbon cycle has become critical to an understanding of energy. Dr. Scott Wing, Research Geologist and Curator of Paleobotany at the Smithsonian Institute, will lead NCAC members on a private, guided tour of the David H. Koch Hall of Fossils. During the tour, special attention will be given to energy science related aspects of the Hall, particularly the formation of fossil fuels and how they fit into the carbon cycle.

Attendance is capped at 30 members and their guests. Registration will open shortly and you will be notified.