How do you source and secure reliable and quality biodiesel and alternative fuels?

1 Assess your fleet needs

Before you start looking for biodiesel and alternative fuels, you need to assess your fleet needs and goals. For example, what type of vehicles do you have, what are their fuel specifications, how much fuel do you consume, and what are your environmental and economic objectives? These factors will help you narrow down your options and determine the optimal blend and ratio of biodiesel and alternative fuels for your fleet.

2 Research potential suppliers

Once you have a clear idea of your fleet needs, you can start researching potential suppliers of biodiesel and alternative fuels. You can use online directories, industry associations, trade shows, or referrals to find reputable and reliable suppliers in your area. You should also compare their prices, quality standards, delivery options, and customer service. You can request samples, testimonials, or references to verify their claims and ensure they meet your expectations.

3 Check fuel quality and compatibility

One of the most important aspects of sourcing and securing biodiesel and alternative fuels is checking their quality and compatibility with your vehicles. You should look for suppliers that adhere to the ASTM International standards for biodiesel and alternative fuels, which specify the physical and chemical properties, performance, and purity of these fuels. You should also check the compatibility of these fuels with your vehicle engines, fuel systems, and storage tanks. You may need to make some modifications or adjustments to avoid corrosion, clogging, or leakage.

4 Follow regulations and incentives

Another aspect of sourcing and securing biodiesel and alternative fuels is following the relevant regulations and incentives in your region. You should be aware of the federal, state, and local laws and policies that govern the use, production, distribution, and taxation of biodiesel and alternative fuels. You should also look for opportunities to benefit from the incentives, credits, grants, or rebates that are available for biodiesel and alternative fuel users. These can help you offset some of the costs and risks involved in switching to these fuels.

5 Monitor and evaluate performance

Finally, you should monitor and evaluate the performance of biodiesel and alternative fuels in your fleet. You should keep track of the fuel consumption, emissions, maintenance, and costs of your vehicles using biodiesel and alternative fuels. You should also collect feedback from your drivers, customers, and stakeholders on the impact of these fuels on your fleet operations, reputation, and satisfaction. You should use this data to identify any issues, challenges, or opportunities for improvement and make adjustments accordingly.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?