Seattle suburb signs new, improved biodiesel contract
October 15, 2015
BY Ron Kotrba
The city of Bellevue, Washington, announced this week a new contract for blended biodiesel to be used in its fleet. The city will now utilize biodiesel made from used cooking oil instead of virgin crop oil, and it will increase the blend from 15 to 20 percent.
The city says the fuel will be purchased at an average cost of 28 cents per gallon less than its previous B15 blend, saving the city an estimated $25,650 a year.
“Our new biodiesel contract is a big win for Bellevue’s Environmental Stewardship Initiative,” said Emma Johnson, the city’s resource conversation manager. “Not only is the city being a good steward of our environment, but we’re saving taxpayers a substantial amount of money.”
Advertisement
Under the new contract, more than 51 percent of the used cooking oil will be sourced within a 50-mile radius of Seattle.
Advertisement
Related Stories
Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited has officially announced the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on its commercial flights, reinforcing Thailand’s green aviation industry. The initiative took effect starting July 1, 2025.
The USDA significantly increased its estimate for 2025-’26 soybean oil use in biofuel production in its latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report, released July 11. The outlook for soybean production was revised down.
U.S. fuel ethanol capacity fell slightly in April, while biodiesel and renewable diesel capacity held steady, according to data released by the U.S. EIA on June 30. Feedstock consumption was down when compared to the previous month.
The U.S. EPA on July 8 hosted virtual public hearing to gather input on the agency’s recently released proposed rule to set 2026 and 2027 RFS RVOs. Members of the biofuel industry were among those to offer testimony during the event.
The USDA’s Risk Management Agency is implementing multiple changes to the Camelina pilot insurance program for the 2026 and succeeding crop years. The changes will expand coverage options and provide greater flexibility for producers.
Upcoming Events
