What’s the Hype around Bioheat® Fuel?

New Yorkers are some of the most trend-savvy people around, which is why it’s so important that we all understand the ins and outs of a much talked-about energy source that’s rapidly gaining popularity across our state. Bioheat® fuel is a low-carbon heating fuel that has been delivered in the Upstate NY area for several years. For this reason, it’s crucial that homeowners and business owners have general knowledge of what Bioheat® fuel is, how it's used, and why it is a leading environmentally friendly fuel option.

What Is Bioheat® Fuel?

Maybe you haven't heard of Bioheat® fuel before, or perhaps you haven't quite learned the basics yet. Bioheat® fuel—a blend of ultra-low sulfur heating oil and biodiesel—incorporates percentages of renewable substances typically extracted as by-products during agricultural crop harvesting. Other types of waste oil can be recycled into Bioheat® fuel as well, such as used cooking oil from your favorite New York pizza restaurant. Typically, the renewable and recycled materials used would otherwise be discarded.

Because Bioheat® fuel is nontoxic and produces lower emissions, it contributes to cleaner air in our communities and could have a significant positive impact on individual and public health. Not only that, but thanks to fewer carbon emissions, reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and the way in which it promotes sustainability through the usage of agricultural by-products and waste oils, Bioheat® fuel is healthier for the environment too.

What Makes Bioheat® Fuel Environmentally Friendly?

There are two main reasons everyone has been discussing Bioheat® fuel lately. The first reason is that Bioheat® fuel offers significant environmental benefits, including reducing carbon emissions dramatically. The Bioheat® fuel industry has helped New York reduce its collective carbon footprint efficiently and affordably. Consumers don't have to wait to use Bioheat® fuel because it's readily available now and already contributing to reduced carbon emissions. Homeowners and businesses don't have to choose between reliable and renewable energy for heating, either. They can shrink their carbon footprint simply by ordering Bioheat® fuel without having to make expensive equipment upgrades.

The second reason people are talking about this environmentally friendly fuel is that New York has implemented a statewide mandate for all heating oil deliveries to contain at least 5% biodiesel, which is the renewable portion of your Bioheat® fuel. This mandate is intended to help us reduce emissions and contribute to the state's clean energy goals. Existing oil heat equipment is currently approved to use up to B20 Bioheat® fuel, which means a percentage of 20% biodiesel and 80% ultra-low sulfur heating oil. And current equipment will continue to be compatible with Bioheat® fuel with little to no modification.

How Is Bioheat® Fuel Used?

Bioheat® fuel is used to heat homes and businesses in the same heating equipment those properties have now, with no modifications necessary. This independent energy source can withstand extreme cold without compromising performance or cost, keeping consumers safe and comfortable. Because Bioheat® fuel is a stable liquid fuel source stored on-site, it offers peace of mind during our frigid New York winters as well. Additionally, the biodiesel in Bioheat® fuel reduces the deposits left within heating systems, which translates to less frequent equipment cleaning and more savings. And since it is priced competitively, consumers can also rely on Bioheat® fuel to keep heating costs in check.

One of the biggest positives for homeowners and businesses considering Bioheat® fuel is that it can be used in existing heating systems and requires no equipment modifications for consumers to reap its benefits. The biodiesel industry employs more than 75,000 people, and production continues growing to meet increased demand. Plus, if it's time to replace your heating system, federal tax credits and rebates are available in New York for new high-efficiency heating systems that are compatible with Bioheat® fuel. These can be used to increase efficiency, protect the environment, and help you save money for years to come.

Resources are available to inform readers about Bioheat® fuel at BetterwithBioheat.com or MyBioheat.com.