what are biofuels?
clean, renewable energy
Biofuels are fuels derived from renewable, biological materials (biomass) such as sugars, starches, fibrous and woody plants, algae, seed oils, and animal fats. The most popular types are biofuels that are produced are ethanol and biodiesel. These fuels can be burned to power engines or produce heat.
In Kentucky, corn and soybeans are the most popular crops used for biofuel production. Biofuels are produced at a number of locations across Kentucky because we have a good supply of farm-grown feedstock and natural resources, as well as markets for fuel use.
Kentucky retailers, businesses and consumers are interested in utilizing local, renewable fuels that can be made from sources we provide within the commonwealth. Improved technologies on the farm, at fuel production facilities, and in engines are at work to make biofuels more sustainable than ever before.
How Are Biofuels Used?
Personal motor vehicles
Commercial trucks
Construction and mining equipment
Race cars, trucks, and tractors
Motorcycles
Boats, ferries, and barges
Small engines: landscaping and marine
Trains
Airlines & airline support equipment
Electricity Plants
Generators
Furnaces and stoves
Where can you buy Biofuels in Kentucky?
Many fuel retailers offer biofuel fuel blends at the pump.
Most all the gasoline sold in Kentucky has at least 10 percent ethanol, and more retailers are now offering 15 percent ethanol, which is approved for vehicles made since 2001. E85, or 85 percent ethanol, is another fuel option for Flex Fuel Vehicles. Find E85 and E15.
Drivers can also find biodiesel blended with regular diesel at several stations around the commonwealth.
Who Uses Biofuels in Kentucky?
Mammoth Cave National Park has been using ethanol and biodiesel for years, and is the first national park in the country to be powered by 100% alternative fuel. Learn more
UPS, MSD, and Carmeuse Lime Mines have used biodiesel in their heavy duty equipment. Several public school systems have also used biodiesel in their school bus fleets.
What are the Benefits of Biofuels?
Biodiesel
Biodiesel is used to refer to renewable fuels that can be burned in a diesel engine. Biodiesel is most often made from the oil extracted from a variety of plants (primarily soybeans), or it can be made from animal fats. It is the first and only EPA-designated Advanced Biofuel in commercial-scale production and can be used without modification of the diesel engine.
Ethanol
Ethanol is a common alcohol made by fermenting the sugar and starch components of renewable plant materials by using yeast. Humans discovered ethanol not long after they figured out how to put fire to good use. Today, ethanol can be found in most all of the gasoline sold in Kentucky and the United States because it burns cleaner and boosts engine performance.
