Biodiesel a long-term solution to energy needs

The idea of blending biodiesel into diesel fuel is not new in Minnesota. The law that requires a minimum of 10 percent biodiesel that started July 1 isn’t new, either. The original law was passed in 2008 — largely through the efforts of biodiesel stakeholders, the agriculture sector and even the trucking industry — to support local economies with a renewable replacement for diesel fuel. And the state has had a minimum blend of biodiesel for more than a decade, starting with B2 in 2002.

Because it was a big change — from a single fuel source in petroleum diesel — the law was written to be implemented in steps. Much care was given to ensure all the benefits of biodiesel could be achieved without adversely affecting Minnesota consumers or industries.

agweek.com»