A Quick Guide to Understanding Your Fuel Options—Especially If You're Going Green
Updated: Jul 27
Diesel vs. Biodiesel: What You Need to Know
If you're managing a fleet, running heavy machinery, or fueling generators in California, you've likely heard the term "biodiesel" alongside conventional diesel. But what’s the difference—and does it matter?
Let’s break it down.
🔍 Diesel vs. Biodiesel: What Are They Made Of?
Diesel fuel is made from crude oil and refined through traditional petroleum processes. It's what most trucks and heavy equipment have used for decades.
Biodiesel, on the other hand, is made from renewable, plant- or animal-based sources like soybean oil, used cooking oil, or animal fats. It’s often blended with diesel to reduce emissions.
You might see it labeled as:
B5 (5% biodiesel, 95% diesel)
B20 (20% biodiesel)
B99 or B100 (nearly or fully pure biodiesel)
Key Differences
Feature | Diesel (Petroleum) | Biodiesel |
Source | Fossil fuel | Renewable oils and animal fats |
Emissions | Higher greenhouse gas emissions | Lower greenhouse gas emissions, especially CO₂ |
Engine Compatibility | Compatible with all diesel engines | Compatible with most diesel engines when used as B5–B20 blends |
Environmental Impact | Higher environmental impact | Cleaner-burning and biodegradable |
California Compliance | May not help meet low-carbon fuel goals | Supports California Clean Truck Check and sustainability initiatives |
♻️ Why It Matters in California
California’s Clean Truck Check and Low-Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) encourage cleaner fuel usage. Using biodiesel or renewable diesel helps your business:
Reduce carbon footprint
Stay compliant
Meet sustainability goals
The Benefits of Biodiesel
Biodiesel offers several advantages for fleets and contractors. Here are some key benefits:
Environmental Impact: Biodiesel significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional diesel. This is crucial for businesses aiming to meet sustainability goals.
Regulatory Compliance: Using biodiesel helps ensure compliance with California's stringent environmental regulations. This can save you from potential fines and penalties.
Engine Performance: Many engines can run on biodiesel without modifications. This means you can transition to a cleaner fuel without significant downtime or investment.
Renewable Resource: Biodiesel is made from renewable resources, making it a sustainable choice for the long term.
Community Support: By choosing biodiesel, you support local farmers and businesses that produce the raw materials.
Making the Switch
Transitioning to biodiesel is easier than you might think. Here are some steps to consider:
Evaluate Your Current Fuel Usage: Understand how much fuel your fleet consumes and identify potential savings with biodiesel.
Consult with Experts: Reach out to fuel suppliers who specialize in biodiesel. They can provide insights tailored to your specific needs.
Test the Fuel: Start with a blend of biodiesel (like B20) to see how it performs in your equipment. Monitor any changes in performance or emissions.
Educate Your Team: Ensure that your team understands the benefits and operational changes associated with using biodiesel.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fuel is essential for your operations. Biodiesel offers a sustainable alternative that can help reduce your carbon footprint while ensuring compliance with California regulations.
📍 Dogpatch Biofuels delivers renewable diesel, biodiesel blends, and CARB-compliant fuels across San Francisco, the Bay Area, and beyond.
Need help deciding which fuel is right for your fleet or job site? Call us at (415) 642-7378 or stop by 765 Pennsylvania Ave, San Francisco, CA.
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