Fact #470: May 21, 2007
Biodiesel Sales
Biodiesel is a form of fuel that is derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. It was defined as an alternative fuel by the Energy Policy Act of 1992. Biodiesel is often blended with petroleum-based diesel in varying amounts (i.e., B-5, B-10, B-20). Pure biodiesel (B-100) can also be used in most diesel engines with little or no modification. Sales of biodiesel more than tripled from 2005 to 2006; tax incentives, along with the Environmental Protection Agency's requirement to substantially lower sulfur content in on-road diesel fuel, are likely the main reasons for the increase.
U.S. Biodiesel Sales, 1999-2006
Supporting Information
| Fiscal Year |
Million Gallons |
|---|---|
| 1999 | 0.5 |
| 2000 | 2.0 |
| 2001 | 5.0 |
| 2002 | 15.0 |
| 2003 | 20.0 |
| 2004 | 25.0 |
| 2005 | 75.0 |
| 2006 | 250.0 |
|
Source: National Biodiesel Board Web Site, Frequently Asked Questions. | |
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