Hawaii commits to switching to B20 biodiesel

March 18, 2015 |
Pacific Biodiesel’s Director of Operations Jenna Long and Agricultural Program Manager James Twigg-Smith explain to Governor Ige how the crushing mill, located on the lot adjacent to the refinery, fits into the Company’s sustainability model.

Pacific Biodiesel’s Director of Operations Jenna Long and Agricultural Program Manager James Twigg-Smith explain to Governor Ige how the crushing mill, located on the lot adjacent to the refinery, fits into the Company’s sustainability model.

In Hawaii, Hawaii State Department of Transportation Director Ford Fuchigami said, “We are committed to convert all of our diesel fuel equipment and vehicles to B20. This fuel is a blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel. We support initiatives to buy local and promote the use of clean energy fuels.”

At the same time, Hawaii Governor David Ige and Lt. Governor Shan Tsutsui proclaimed March 18, 2015 as Pacific Biodiesel Day to perpetuate and honor the legacy of the inventor of the diesel engine, Rudolph Diesel, as well as the contributions of a local company, Pacific Biodiesel.

Recognizing the significance of the occasion, the Governor and State Transportation Director Ford Fuchigami visited the biodiesel refinery on Hawaii Island on March 17.

Governor David Ige presents Pacific Biodiesel President Robert King and Director of Operations Jenna Long with the proclamation naming March 18, 2015 Pacific Biodiesel Day.

Governor David Ige presents Pacific Biodiesel President Robert King and Director of Operations Jenna Long with the proclamation naming March 18, 2015 Pacific Biodiesel Day.

Even in a 20% blend, as used by the City & County of Honolulu for well over a decade, there are significant benefits, according to the National Biodiesel Board. The NBB states that the 20% blend, or B20, provides superior lubrication, equal performance and is biodegradable at twice the rate of #2 petroleum diesel, and can even extend the life of diesel engines. Biodiesel can be used pure or blended at any percentage with petroleum diesel.

During Governor Ige’s site visit to the newest and most advanced Pacific Biodiesel refinery in Kea`au, Hawaii, he emphasized the state’s serious commitment to food security and energy sustainability. The Governor commended Pacific Biodiesel for being a global pioneer in the field of biofuels and for the company president Robert King’s vision to position Hawaii to become an energy independent and self-sustainable state. Governor Ige issued a proclamation declaring March 18, 2015 as Pacific Biodiesel Day in Hawaii.

The crew of Big Island Biodiesel celebrated with the dignitaries, including Wes Yonamine of the Airports Division, who expressed support for the community-based model of parent company Pacific Biodiesel Technologies. It was a first visit to such a facility for Governor Ige and Director Fuchigami, underscoring the Governor’s Energy Plan and commitment to renewable energy for transportation in Hawaii.

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