Downstate New York to introduce biodiesel obligation for heating oil

Counties in downstate New York are set to join New York City in providing cleaner air through increased use of biodiesel in home heating, with a product called Bioheat fuel.

Legislation passed by Assemblyman Steve Englebright and Senator Phil Boyle would expand the state’s commitment to renewable energy by requiring heating oil sold in Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties to contain at least 5% biodiesel by 1 July, 2018. The bill is now awaiting action by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

“By using more biodiesel in their heating oil New Yorkers will enjoy cleaner air, reduce harmful emissions, and experience an overall healthier environment,” said National Biodiesel Board CEO Donnell Rehagen. “This legislation builds on New York City’s continued commitment to clean energy and biodiesel while supporting local jobs and better choices for consumers.”

According to the National Biodiesel Board, the US trade association representing the entire biodiesel chain, the legislation is popular among a ‘broad range of industry and environmental advocates’ due to its popular impact on the environment, public health and local job creation in the US’ largest heating oil market.

New York City is the largest municipal consumer of heating oil in the US. It instituted a city wide 2% biodiesel requirement in 2012, which will increase to 5% later in 2017. This would ensure the entire New York City Metropolitan Area, representing approximately 70 percent of the state’s heating oil market, would have a 5 percent biodiesel blending requirement.

“The adoption of a 5 percent minimum biofuel blending requirement for all heating oil sold in the Downstate NY area heralds a new day for our industry. Our goal for the past four years has been to establish ULS-B5 as a uniform standard for cleanliness, efficiency, and environmental compatibility for the heating oil industry; and with the Governor’s expected signature, this goal will soon become a reality,” said Kevin Rooney, CEO, Oil Heat Institute of Long Island. “We extend our thanks to the National Biodiesel Board for their unwavering support of this vitally important legislative effort. The adoption of this legislation by the NY State Legislature late last night would not have happened without it.”