Alternative/Renewable Fuels

The U.S. is heavily reliant on the nonrenewable fossil fuels: coal, natural gas, and oil. In 2005, about 6% of all energy consumed, and about 9% of total electricity production, was from renewable energy sources. "Green" renewable sources contribute much less to global warming and climate change by offsetting fossil fuels used to generate electricity.

Alternative fuels, also known as nonconventional fuels, are materials or substances that can be used as a fuel, other than conventional fuels such as gasoline or diesel. Some alternative transportation fuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, are renewable, while others, such as propane and natural gas, are nonrenewable.

Project example:

At Lackland AFB about 500 gallons per week of B20 grade of biodiesel (20% biofuel /80% regular diesel) are being used at a cost savings of 5 to 10 cents per gallon less than petrodiesel. No modifications to the equipment are required.

Biodiesel, even B20, significantly reduces the amount of CO² emitted to the atmosphere. According to the National Biodiesel Board (www.biodiesel.org) almost all the material given off by any vehicle is CO² and water. The use of biodiesel in a conventional diesel engine results in substantial reduction of unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter compared to emissions from petrodiesel fuel. An emissions calculator estimates this project is reducing CO² emissions by 1600 pounds.