Mean Green

When someone asks the real cost of biodiesel, the question is hard to answer. There is an environmental impact of producing the fuel, to some extent, and that can be considered a cost. There is also the physical cost of production to take into consideration. However, the real cost question may not always be answered obviously. Here are some interesting “cost” facts about biodiesel.

While one gallon of the fuel will be priced higher than traditional gasoline, the engine will perform at 30 to 40% better efficiency. Thus, if gas is selling for $3.00 a gallon, biodiesel should be selling for around $4.20 a gallon. This alternative fuel does not require extensive modification or replacement of the engine. If it runs diesel, it will run biodiesel. The fuel works as a solvent and will clean the engine. The result could be clogged filters, so changing those a few days after adding the biofuel is important. This will increase the “cost”. Oil is used as the base for this alternative fuel. If the oil is not produced in a green and eco-friendly environment – the end “cost” of the energy will be higher.

There is a whole world surrounding the production of biofuels. This world works in the same way it always has but running petroleum based engines and emitting greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. If that part of production is not green, is the fuel really saving Mother Earth? Some companies are moving toward more environmentally friendly practices, but these steps are smaller than they may need to be.