Did you know that Renewable Diesel is now here for boaters, and reduces greenhouse emissions? This clean, efficient new fuel for diesel engines is growing in popularity and availability.
Renewable Diesel is a direct substitute for petroleum diesel fuel that is refined from lower carbon and renewable source materials. It is a hydrocarbon diesel fuel produced by hydro processing of fats and vegetable oils (not biodiesel). Renewable Diesel is a direct replacement fuel that is compatible with all diesel engines according to Neste, the creator of Renewable Diesel. Every molecule in Renewable Diesel is found in ultra-low sulfur diesel so no modification is required. Renewable Diesel and Petroleum Diesel can be blended in any mixture without worry.
Renewable Diesel has no smell, is stable, and reduces greenhouse emissions. Not to be confused with biodiesel, Renewable Diesel is more refined and is not susceptible to algae growth. It has a long storage life of up to 10 years and a very low freeze point of -40 degrees Fahrenheit. This high-quality renewable diesel delivers 80%-90% lower emissions compared to petroleum diesel. Renewable Diesel is considered the cleaner choice and the higher performance choice for diesel engines. Users should expect improved performance in cold weather, with quicker cold starts, less noise, and better throttle response.
Currently, the U.S. is the largest market for this new fuel, and more refineries around the country are being converted to produce Renewable Diesel. Diamond Green Diesel is the largest producer in the U.S. with two plants. Other leading companies in the U.S. include Chevron Renewable Energy Group, PBF Energy Inc., Valero Energy Corp., and Gevo Inc.
Right now, Renewable Diesel fuel is not widely available for marine use, its mainly used by the trucking industry in the West Coast states of Washington, Oregon, and California. PetroCard, a local business in Washington that supplies Renewable Diesel, has two marine fueling docks: Westport Marina and Port Angeles Boat Haven. They service pleasure craft, yachts, and commercial ships.
Canada’s first stand-alone Renewable Diesel refinery just completed construction in British Columbia in June, 2023. Using canola and tall oil, the Tidewater facility will produce Renewable Diesel. When fully operational, Tidewater Renewable is expected to produce more than 3,000 barrels of low-carbon fuel per day.
Boaters can look forward to more locations in the near future where they can purchase Renewable Diesel and become major players in support of a cleaner environment.
Header Image by Jubitz
