Grainnet

WASHINGTON--The Senate Appropriations Committee approved June 29 its version of Energy and Water Appropriations legislation that includes $1.5 million for critical testing of biodiesel in future advanced diesel engines.

If the Energy and Water Appropriations bill passes Congress with the funding recommendations in tact, it will increase the likelihood of major U.S. automakers’ approval of the use of biodiesel blends in 2007 engines and beyond.

Sen. Jim Talent (R-MO) took the lead in working to get funding included for the Biodiesel Engine Testing Program, which Congress authorized in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 as a result of his leadership as well.

“Missourians want to buy American fuel – grown by our farmers – and research is a key factor in making biofuels more accessible,” said Sen. Talent, co-chair of the Senate Biofuels Caucus.

“For years our farmers have been feeding the nation – now they are in a position to fuel the nation.

These funds will help develop new technologies and promote greater use of biodiesel on behalf of our producers, our economy and our environment.”

Recent regulatory changes aimed at improving the emissions profile of diesel engines will require significant advancement in engine technologies.

Auto and engine makers are stepping up to meet the challenges presented by these regulatory standards, which take effect in model years 2007 (on-road) and 2010 (off-road).

“Senator Talent’s leadership on this issue, coupled with Senator Kit Bond’s strong support and stewardship in committee made this happen” said Joe Jobe, CEO of the National Biodiesel Board.

“A critical element in meeting these standards will be the fuel that is used in advanced engine and emission control technologies.

It is imperative that the necessary research is conducted to demonstrate biodiesel’s compatibility with new engine technologies.”

“Automakers and engine makers are also committing significant time and resources toward this effort,” Jobe said.

“However, federal support is critical to finish this endeavor and help ensure the compatibility of biodiesel blends with the new engines.”

If passed, research areas will likely include:

> Engine durability studies using biodiesel blends > B20 testing in post-2007 engines (on and off-highway) > Funding for research and outreach on biodiesel quality, emissions, compatibility with advanced engines and emission control systems

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel made from resources such as soybean oil or other fats and vegetable oils. Production tripled in 2005 to 75 million gallons, from 25 million gallons in 2004. The industry is on track to produce 150 million gallons this year. Sixty-five biodiesel plants supply the nation, with another 50 under construction.

For more information contact, Jenna Higgins/NBB, 573-635-3893 or visit www.biodiesel.org.

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