Biodiesel

Advantages of biodiesel:

• Comparable energy and power content.
• Virtually zero sulphur content.
  Flash point of 300 °F against 137 °F for mineral diesel.
• Significant reduction in particulates (soot).
• 70 per cent reduction of carbon monoxide emissions.
• Non-toxic and biodegradable.
• Fully degraded from a waterway environment within approximately 28 days.
• Significant lubricant characteristics enabling a reduction in wear.
• Extended efficiency for injectors and for all engines.
  

EU directive 2003/30/EC decreed a desire for 5.75% of transport fuel to be replaced by biofuel (diesel or bioethanol) by 2010-11. The UK response was the Road Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO), which targets 5% replacement by 2010.

The RTFO requires bio-fuel inclusions in steps:

• 2.5% by 2008/9.
• 3.75% by 2009/10.
• 5% by 2010/11.

This equates to 2.5 million tonnes of bio-fuel by 2010.

Legislation.

If you make biodiesel for commercial purposes this is a chemical activity that is regulated under the Pollution Prevention and Control (PPC) Regulations. There are over a dozen organizations to be notified any or all of whom could object. In addition under ATEX directive 94/9/EC all equipment used in a potentially explosive atmosphere (e.g. methanol fumes) must conform to specific safety standards.

HM Customs and Excise will require registration of a biodiesel plant and monthly returns need to be submitted.

If you require any more information on bio-diesal please contact:

George Jardine
Renewables Energy Manager

CMS UK
Spring Farm Business Centre
Moss Lane
Minshull Vernon
Crewe
Cheshire CW1 4RJ
Tel: 01270 522645