Renewable fuel is often subject to scrutiny about how it works and if it is truly useful. Some people think it will compromise a vehicle’s performance, less effective in the winter and cold temperatures, or will nullify a motor vehicle’s warranty. At SeQuential, we’ve been recycling used cooking oil recovered from commercial kitchens since 2002. We know that renewable fuel has a myriad of ecological and economic benefits. Here, we debunk the renewable fuel myths.
What Is Renewable Fuel?
Understanding what renewable fuel is and how it’s produced helps dispel some of the myths about the fuel source. Renewable fuel is an energy source made from feedstock, such as used animal and vegetable grease. These substances are refined and often mixed with fossil-based diesel. Renewable fuel is then used to power diesel-engine vehicles. It is a sustainable fuel and it creates less carbon dioxide emissions, which can curb climate change.
Renewable Fuel Myths
Renewable fuel can be the ideal alternative to traditional forms of energy for people who want to pursue a more eco-conscious lifestyle. However, uncertainty about the fuel and its benefits may make some reluctant to use it. Here are some of the more prevalent mistaken beliefs about renewable fuel and the reality of these statements:
Myth: Renewable Fuel Weakens Vehicle Performance
Neste’s renewable fuel is a high-quality diesel that is significantly better for the environment than fossil diesel, while – thanks to its chemical composition – delivering at least the same performance, if not better, and can be used without modifications to the fleet or infrastructure.
Just fuel and drive.
Myth: Renewable Fuel Underperforms in Cold Weather
Some believe renewable fuel cannot withstand the intense conditions of the winter. However, it cannot be denied that cars and trucks nationwide have relied on renewable fuel for nearly two decades. Renewable fuel can perform in various climates, from Alaskan winters to Florida summers and everything in between.
Renewable fuel manufacturers, distributors, and retailers understand they need to store and handle conventional and renewable fuel blends within certain parameters to ensure peak performance, just like any other product. The fact is most renewable fuel blends still contain a majority of petroleum fuel, enabling blends to rely on the temperature properties of conventional fuels. When necessary, flow improvers may be added to the fuel to ensure fuel fluidity.
Myth: Using Renewable Fuel Will Void a Vehicle Warranty
Some folks still think that using renewable fuel will void a vehicle’s warranty. In truth, the original equipment manufacturer (EOM) warranty of vehicle engines only covers what the company manufactures, which is the material and workmanship of the engine. They don’t cover warranty repairs or reconditions based on improper fuel usage, whether it’s renewable fuel or conventional fuel.
In addition, the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy reports that fuel blends have had no negative long-term effects on diesel engines.
Myth: Renewable Fuel Produced from Fresh Feedstock is Superior to Recycled Oil
While fuel made from a fresh source may sound more appealing, it is not necessarily of higher quality than renewable fuel made of recycled grease. In fact, renewable fuel made of recycled animal or plant grease may be more environmentally advantageous because it reduces the amount of these substances entering landfills and sewage systems. It also meets all federal measures for quality assurance.
At SeQuential, we offer used cooking oil recycling for all types of kitchens and restaurants, eliminating the fuel, land, and energy requirements needed when using fresh grain feedstock to produce renewable fuel. Our approach also cuts down on carbon emissions and climate change.
Bust Renewable Fuel Myths with SeQuential
Based on the West Coast, SeQuential collects used cooking grease from commercial kitchens and retail food establishments throughout the nation. We recycle what otherwise would be trash. From there, we turn it into a useful resource that can power vehicles across the country. The entire process promotes a greener, more renewable way to use energy. To learn more about us and our green energy solutions, contact us today.