Northeast fuel suppliers ready for increased biofuel levels in heating oil

Biofuel-blending mandates for heating oil have increased in three Northeastern states July 1.

Fuel suppliers and distributors in New York and Connecticut are now required to provide 10 percent biobased diesel content (B10) in heating oil, up from B5.

Rhode Island has gone even further, enacting a B20 mandate for heating oil now in effect.

Blending requirements in these states will further increase by 2030.

In New York, the state will require a jump to B20 in 2030.

Connecticut will increase its blend standard to B15 by 2030, B20 by 2034 and B50 by 2035.

Rhode Island, however, is set to increase to B50 in just five years.

Fuel suppliers in the region say they are ready to comply with the new biofuel requirements.

“As of July 1, new state biofuel mandates are in effect—and Sprague is ready,” stated Sprague Operating Resources LLC. “Sprague is fully prepared to support your compliance from Day One. If you currently use B5 in New York or Connecticut, B10 will be available at our terminals by July 1. In Rhode Island, customers using B10 will have access to B20 to ensure a smooth transition.”

Sprague added that it recognizes the legislative process can be unpredictable.

“Sprague will continue to closely monitor the [situation] and if anything changes, we will inform you as soon as possible,” the company told its customers. “These cleaner fuel blends meet new regional requirements and support a more sustainable energy future.”

New York-based fuel supplier Approved Oil is also prepared for the increased biofuel-blending requirements in heating oil.

“At Approved, we’re already prepared and fully compliant with the new mandate,” the company stated. “As always, we’re here to ensure a smooth transition for you, and we’ll continue delivering clean, high-quality fuel that meets all regulatory requirements. All heating oil will include a minimum of 10 percent biodiesel. This change is part of New York’s ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner energy solutions. Fuel suppliers and distributors must fully comply with the new B10 standard.”

Approved Oil recommended that New York distributors check their fuel supply and ensure their providers are ready to meet the new requirement.

The New York requirement is the result of legislation signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul in December 2021.

A 5 percent standard has been in place for New York City and Long Island since 2017, and some fuel dealers have been selling blends as high as 50 percent for several years.

The Connecticut increase stems from legislation signed by Gov. Ned Lamont in July 2021.

Also in July 2021, Rhode Island Gov. Daniel McKee’s signature on a bill enacted that state’s aggressive blend requirement.