Biodiesel for vehicles is now available for purchase on State Contract number ENE23 and has been in use in certain state vehicles on a voluntary basis since 2000. In order to ensure the continued adoption of biodiesel in the Commonwealth’s diesel vehicle fleet the following 5% target is mandated for Fiscal Year 2008:
Beginning in Fiscal Year 2008, all agencies must use a minimum of five percent (5%) biodiesel in both on-road and off-road diesel engines. Furthermore, by Fiscal Year 2010, agencies shall use a minimum of fifteen percent (15%) biodiesel in both on-road and off-road diesel engines.
However, prior to Fiscal Year 2010, DOER, in collaboration with the Commonwealth Office of Vehicle Management and other appropriate agencies, shall determine whether a 15% biodiesel goal is appropriate, and if so, for what vehicles under what conditions. Such determination shall be based on equipment and fuel performance, vehicle warranties, warm versus cold weather issues, and any other criteria that might affect the performance of state vehicles and agency ability to conduct its business appropriately and efficiently.
These minimum requirements can be met through the use of B5 and/or B20 blends, or any other blend, as long as a minimum of 5% by FY08 and 15% by FY2010 of total diesel fuel used is equivalent to 100% biodiesel. It is anticipated that a B20 biodiesel blend can be used for up to 8 months of the year and a B5 biodiesel blend used during the winter season, as currently offered through the state contract. All biodiesel blends available on state contract meet recommended ASTM standards.
A&F and DOER shall monitor biodiesel usage and, depending on progress toward the goals set in this bulletin, shall determine whether annual goals for biodeisel prior to or after Fiscal Year 2010 shall be set.
Agencies may apply to DOER for an exemption from the provisions of this section provided that they can demonstrate that biodiesel is not available for purchase or that the cost of such fuels is prohibitive. Where agencies feel there is another clear justification for not using biodiesel blends in some portion of their diesel fleet, they may apply for a waiver for those vehicles.