What is biodiesel?

An alternative to diesel, biodiesel can be blended with petroleum diesel and used in any diesel engine with little or no modification. Biodiesel is made from soybean oil and other vegetable oils, animal fats, and waste cooking oil, using a process called transesterification. This renewable biofuel is one of the most widely used alternative fuels in commercial transportation.

Why is biodiesel a Clean Air Choice®?

Biodiesel is a cleaner-burning fuel than petroleum diesel. In higher concentrations, it can significantly reduce air toxins and other harmful emissions. It is a tool that can help lessen our exposure to these air pollutants. At B100, the estimated lifecycle carbon dioxide reductions are as much as 86% compared to petroleum diesel%. Using biodiesel supports clean air by reducing particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons.

BIODIESEL IS A RENEWABLE, BIODEGRADABLE, CLEAN-BURNING FUEL MADE FROM VEGETABLE OILS, ANIMAL FATS OR RECYCLED RESTAURANT GREASE.

What are other benefits?

  • Drop-in fuel blends. Biodiesel blends up to 20% (B20) require no engine modifications nor any investment in special vehicles or fuel system infrastructure. Some types of vehicles are approved for higher blends
  • Better for engines. With higher lubricity and engine cleaning properties, biodiesel is a high-performance fuel
  • Renewable. Biodiesel can be made from a variety of renewable feedstocks that are readily available
  • Safe to use. It’s non-toxic and biodegradable. Biodiesel biodegrades as fast as sugar and is less toxic than table salt
Diesel Emissions Reduction Act funding
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  • All-weather fuel. With proper additives, biodiesel blends operate well in both cold and warm weather
  • Advanced technologies. Engine technologies, such as the Optimus Technologies Biofuel Vector System, can enable fleets to operate on 100% biodiesel (B100) year-round in any climate
  • Produced domestically. Local production reduces our dependence on imported petroleum and diverts waste from landfills

Biodiesel Infrastructure Development Grant Programs

Assistance may be available for stations installing equipment or converting existing equipment for dispensing biodiesel. Promotional assistance programs, marketing materials, and imaging kits for biodiesel may also be available.