The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) and the Minnesota Biodiesel Council (MBC) have presented an action plan to the Minnesota Department of Commerce to increase biodiesel quality control measures and ensure that only high-grade product is released into the state’s pool, according to information from NBB.
The recommendations include calling for all biodiesel producers to become accredited under BQ-9000, the industry’s quality assurance program.
Minnesota law mandates the state’s diesel fuel supply contain a blend of two percent biodiesel (B2).
In December, it was confirmed that some biodiesel that did not meet the specification was delivered to some Minnesota terminals. At the same time, some incidents of filter plugging were reported.
A group composed of NBB, MBC, state agencies, and petroleum companies determined that out-of-spec biodiesel was responsible for at least some of the filter plugging.
NBB and MBC originally called for a temporary waiver from the B2 mandate December 22 to allow terminals to test their biodiesel and re-supply if necessary until January 13.
The recommendations include procedures requiring biodiesel companies to provide a certificate of analysis for each batch of fuel and a call for strong enforcement procedures from the Minnesota Department of Commerce. This would include suspensions and fines for producers who sell out-of-spec biodiesel.
A Diesel Helpline has been established through the University of Minnesota Center for Diesel Research at 800-929-3437.