From The Workbench - Alternative + Renewable Energy Blog Valuable information for do-it-yourselfers interested in the latest in alternative + renewable energy

So we’ve gone over how to harness the power of the Sun, we’ve jumped right into how to reap the benefits of a blustery day, and both of these will help you save not only money in your wallet, but the environment too.  Now, you’re probably wondering, how the heck do I save some money in the wake of gas prices that never seem to stop rising?  I’m glad you asked, for I just found an amazing buyer’s guide that will accompany the Solar and Wind Energy Buyer’s Guides that we previously discussed and posted on this blog.

So first and foremost, we’re going to cover the basics of biodiesel, what it is, where it comes from, and finally what you need to start using it in your own life.  Without further ado, here is Part 1 of the Biodiesel Buyer’s Guide!

“What is Biodiesel Fuel?

Derived from natural oils, Biodiesel is a domestic, renewable fuel for diesel engines. It is registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is legal for use in any concentration with petroleum-based diesel fuel, for the operation of both highway and non-road diesel vehicles.

Contrary to popular belief, Biodiesel is not simply raw vegetable oil, but motor fuel made from any vegetable oil (such as soybean oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, or recycled cooking oils) or animal fats, by means of a chemical process which removes the glycerin from the oil. The refining process, called “esterification”, employs an industrial alcohol (ethanol or methanol) and a catalyst (a substance which enables a chemical reaction) to convert the oil into a fatty-acid methyl ester fuel.

Biodiesel is a fuel for any diesel engine. It is made from natural oils rather than petroleum. Biodiesel performs similarly to regular diesel fuel and can be used with no modifications to the diesel engine or the vehicle. Biodiesel offers huge advantages, but like any fuel has some limitations. It is affected by cold weather to a greater extent than diesel fuel and typically delivers 2 to 3 percent lower fuel mileage.

Bottom Line: If It Runs On Diesel, It Will Run On BioDiesel.“

I think the bottom line mentioned up there is something that everyone, everywhere needs to remember.  If it runs on diesel, it will run on biodiesel, it’s as simple as that.  Actually getting it to the point where it’s a useable power source takes a bit of work, but it is do-able, and it is extremely simple once you get the hang of it.  Now that you know WHAT it is, tomorrow we’ll cover the advantages it has over using conventional gasoline, or petrol.  Trust me, once that topic is breached, you’ll be head over heels in love with the idea of biodiesel.