Kris DeLair, Empire State Energy Association
With our statewide efforts to reduce carbon emissions, changes are coming to heating oil in New York—but don’t worry, it’s going to be a smooth transition. In case you weren’t aware, all heating oil statewide is at least 5% biodiesel thanks in part to a 2021 bill designed to reduce New York’s annual heating oil consumption—but that’s just the beginning of our progress toward a sustainable future. The goal is to phase up to 10% biodiesel in 2025 before a 20% requirement takes effect in 2030.
Bioheat® fuel is a blend of ultra-low sulfur heating oil blended with a percentage of biodiesel. Biodiesel is a renewable energy source created out of agricultural by-products and recycled oils, such as soybean oil, used cooking oils, and other materials. The 5% biodiesel blend of Bioheat® fuel currently used across New York is called B5 Bioheat® fuel, and the 10% blend that must be used statewide by July 1, 2025 is called B10 Bioheat® fuel.
Use of B10 Bioheat® fuel will make reducing carbon emissions easier. A higher blend of biodiesel means fewer emissions in the atmosphere; not only that, but there are benefits for household heating equipment too. Bioheat® fuel can be used in existing heating systems with no modifications, and its use results in improved efficiency and longer-lasting equipment.
The transition to B10 Bioheat® fuel is also a boon for our local economy. By stimulating demand for biodiesel, the policy supports regional agriculture and biodiesel production industries, which drives economic growth. Farmers and producers stand to benefit from this increased demand, fostering a more robust and resilient agricultural sector.
New York’s move to B10 Bioheat® fuel by July 2025 is a step toward furthering our sustainability. It also reflects the need to utilize every resource available to combat carbon emissions. In embracing B10 Bioheat® fuel, we as New Yorkers not only set a precedent for other states but also reaffirm our commitment to a more sustainable future.
