Several Northeastern fuel oil dealers have begun delivering biofuel to their customers and more are considering the prospect, according to information presented at the New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) Business Conference June 12-13 in Boston MA.
"Our customers are demanding it," said Stephan Chase of Alliance Energy, who began delivering biofuel (a mix of biodiesel and fuel oil) to customers more than four years ago. Bob Warren of Fisher Churchill said he formed a separate company, Mass Biofuel, to supply the product and plans to have all his customers switched to bioheating in 2008.
"Biodiesel will go beyond a niche fuel in the next three years," said Paul Nazzaro of the National Biodiesel Board.
Despite the enthusiasm, the members of the panel discussing bioheat emphasized the importance of marketing product that meets strict specifications. They said one way to effect quality is by obtaining product from terminals holding a BQ 9000 certification, a quality assurance program that includes procedures for fuel storage, handling, and management aimed at ensuring fuel quality throughout the distribution system.
More about the subject and other news from the NEFI conference will be covered in the August issue of Bulk Transporter.