Transportation Cabinet
Transportation Cabinet Reports the Increase of Bio-diesel Usage- A derivative of Governor Fletcher’s Comprehensive Energy Plan

             FRANKFORT, Ky. (November 10, 2005) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is working to increase the use of bio-diesel within its fleet of equipment and vehicles.  The clean burning alternative fuel is made from Kentucky soybeans and recycled vegetable oil. 

            “We have a responsibility to take the initiative and find ways to decrease gasoline pollutants levels in our environment”, said Acting Transportation Cabinet Secretary Bill Nighbert. “Governor Ernie Fletcher's Energy Plan directs our cabinet to develop strategies that benefits our environment. Using bio-diesel improves the environment and creates more opportunities for local farmers because Kentucky grown soybeans are used to produce the alternative fuel. It’s a “win” “win” for all Kentuckians.” 

Governor Fletcher unveiled his Comprehensive Energy Plan in February 2005.   Its mission is to maintain Kentucky’s low cost energy, develop Kentucky’s energy resources and to preserve Kentucky’s commitment to the environment. 

 Bio-diesel does not contain petroleum, but can be blended at any level with petroleum diesel blend. The Tier I testing demonstrated bio-diesel’s significant reductions in most currently regulated emissions as well as most unregulated emissions especially those associated with cancer and lung disease. From September to October 2005 the Department of Highways’ Division of Equipment has doubled its usage of bio-diesel from 24,075 gallons to 49,668 gallons.  

“Five highway districts are currently using bio-diesel fuel”, said Chris Mobley, Director of the Division of Equipment. “We are working aggressively with the Kentucky Clean Fuels Coalition to add more vendors to the list and to encourage state-wide bio-diesel usage for all of our trucks and rollers.” 

The Transportation Cabinet plans to monitor bio-diesel usage through the snow and ice season and is assessing the use of maintenance records on all equipment that uses bio-diesel fuel. 

            To find out more about bio-diesel fuel log on to www.kentuckycleanfuels.org

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