Biodiesel Use Increases

The use of biodiesel continues to grow with blends from 5% to 20% the most prevalent.  There are now 65 commercial production plants in 30 states according to the National Biodiesel Board.  Most make biodiesel from soybean oil but many use other sources such as vegetable oils from corn and canola or animal fats such as lard or poultry fat.  Recycled restaurant cooking oil is used in 5 plants and 1 plant in Texas uses beef tallow.

Biodiesel is the nation’s fastest growing alternative fuel according to the U.S. Department of Energy with production tripling to 75 million gallons since 2004.

Acceptance of biodiesel was given another boost by DaimlerChrysler’s announcement that their 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD will use B5 biodiesel.  The new SUV is expected to be delivered to dealers the 1st quarter 2007.  Jeep has been selling the popular Liberty, equipped to use B5 biodiesel, for the past 18 months with about 15,000 vehicles delivered so far.  According to DaimlerChrysler spokesman Max Gates the response has been positive.

Farmers Union Oil of Southern Valley has biodiesel available in various blends at our locations in Fairmount, ND, Mooreton, ND and Breckenridge, MN.  Call, email or stop by to find out more about using biodiesel in your diesel powered vehicles.