Originally Published April 9, 2017 by Clean Fuels Work
The desire to commit to a low-carbon vehicle may be sincere, but when it comes time to make a purchase, that desire may be outweighed by the financial reality of adopting new technology.
The sometimes-limited availability of non-petroleum fuels can be a barrier. But biodiesel – a renewable, non-toxic alternative to traditional petroleum diesel – can provide a simple, affordable option for diesel engine users.
Biodiesel works just like petroleum diesel, except it’s sourced from vegetable oils instead of fossil fuels. SeQuential – Oregon’s only in state biodiesel producer – makes their biodiesel out of recycled cooking oil collected from local restaurants. Biodiesel can be blended with—or fully replace—petroleum diesel, and has far less impact on our environment. Any diesel equipment can use biodiesel, including cars, trucks, farm equipment, boats, oil furnaces and more.
SeQuential recently released a series of short videos providing insight into their work and showing how used cooking grease becomes clean burning biodiesel. Check out this one highlighting the work done at their processing plant in Salem:
Biodiesel offers many benefits. In addition to boasting a carbon footprint as much as 85% smaller than petroleum diesel, biodiesel is great for engines. It has a higher cetane rating – so it’s easier to start and turn over your engine – and better lubricity, resulting in less engine wear and a potentially longer engine life.
No engine modifications are required to use biodiesel. You can simply fill up your tank and go about your business. Biodiesel is widely available throughout Oregon. More than 85 retail stations currently carry biodiesel year-round. Click here to locate a station near you.