The Path to Net-Zero Carbon Emissions
Not only is today’s clean-burning heating oil environmentally friendly, it’s also become a vital part of America’s mission to achieve net-zero carbon emissions within the next few decades.
Advanced technology has already brought us Bioheat® fuel, which is a blend of ultra-low-sulfur heating oil and biodiesel. Biodiesel is made from various organic products, including vegetable oils, animal fats and even algae. New studies have shown the viability of using various grasses for the production of biodiesel as well.
Biodiesel is considered a biogenic fuel that reduces carbon 100%. By contrast, when fossil fuels that do not contain biodiesel are burned, they take carbon that was stored in the ground and put it back into the atmosphere.
In contrast, the combustion of biofuels and other biogenic energy sources actually recycles carbon dioxide emissions through renewable plant materials and other biomass feedstocks. That’s why you’ll be hearing a lot about net-zero carbon emissions and carbon-neutral fuel in the years ahead.
All of this is exciting news for Wisconsinites who appreciate the many benefits of using heating oil to stay safe and warm, but want to do their part to preserve our precious environment.
Bioheat Fuel Saves You Money
Bioheat fuel burns more cleanly and more efficiently than conventional heating oil. So, you’ll be using less fuel to get the same amount of warmth, and your heating system will last longer. You’ll also likely find that you need fewer repairs on your system. You may also be able to extend the time between system maintenance. All of this amounts to savings!
Renewable Biofuel Made in Wisconsin
Bioheat fuel is sourced and produced right here in the United States, supporting local farmers, local industries and local economies. The U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel industries now support about 65,000 U.S. jobs and more than $17 billion in economic activity each year.
The production process puts excess plant oil and animal fats to good use, diverting waste products from landfills. Food production is never sacrificed for fuel in the creation of Bioheat fuel.
Right here in our state, the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh has partnered with biogas producer Agra Energy to build a first-of-its kind commercial facility that will turn dairy farm waste into renewable biofuel. The facility, located at Dairyland Farm in New Franken, will use advanced technology to convert biogas waste into an estimated 750,000 gallons of renewable diesel and jet fuel annually.
What’s Next for Bioheat® Fuel?
The end game is to transition to B100 Bioheat fuel (100% biodiesel/biofuel). We’re seeing important progress in this direction. Shortly after the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) updated its standards to include burners that use B100 Bioheat fuel, the R.W. Beckett Corporation announced that it had begun production of fully warranted burners with B100-compliant components. Beckett is the country’s largest producer of heating oil burners. Additionally, the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) has demonstrated that a home heated with 100% biodiesel and using solar panels to produce electricity can reach net-zero carbon emissions quickly — and at an economically viable cost.
Read more about Bioheat fuel.