Biofuels

Biofuel is a renewable fuel that can be produced domestically and derives energy through biological carbon fixation from solid biomass, liquids, and biogases.  More common biofuels include biodiesel and ethanol.

Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel that is produced domestically with fats, oils and grease.  Biodiesel is a blend of the bio liquid fuels with petroleum diesel.  Blends can have a number of concentrations, but those most common are B5 (5% biofuel, 95% diesel), B20 (20% biofuel, 80% diesel), and B100 (100% biofuel).

Typically, diesel engine vehicles manufactured after 1993 can accommodate blends up to B20 but it is recommended to consult with the manufacturer or your car dealer before switching to biodiesel.  With respect to operational quality, biodiesel has similar performance results although higher blends in cold weather climates may experience gelling or crystallization.

Biodiesel has significant environmental and health benefits as the blend concentration increases reducing particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions, approximately 10% with B20 and 50% with B100.  And, as biofuel is non-toxic, biodiesel spills are less damaging than petroleum diesel spills.  For more information, click here.