Dow Chemical Begins Biodiesel Production

Chelsea, Massachusetts/Midland, Michigan [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] A search for viable sources of alternative energy has bought together an entrepreneurial bioenergy firm, the world’s largest chemical producer, and 40,000 gallons of vegetable oil. World Energy of Chelsea, Massachusetts, a producer and distributor of biodiesel fuel, has entered into an exclusive production agreement with Dow Haltermann Custom Processing (DHCP), a Dow business unit comprised of operations within The Dow Chemical Company and Johann Haltermann.

DHCP will produce biodiesel at its Houston location exclusively for World Energy in North America. “Dow’s global reputation for manufacturing excellence coupled with our rigorous attention to high-quality biodiesel production results in a win for both companies, as well as for consumers and the environment,” said Gene Gebolys, founder and president of World Energy. The use of biodiesel reduces carbon monoxide emissions by 78 percent compared to petroleum diesel, according to a 1998 biodiesel lifecycle study jointly sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Integrating biodiesel into the existing fuel infrastructure should require little, if any, engine adjustments to vehicles currently in use. Many public and private organizations are currently using World Energy biodiesel, including all branches of the U.S. military, Harvard University, utility fleets and many school bus systems around the country. At a B20 blend in diesel engines, which is 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel, these groups and their communities have shown a 16 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions; a 21 percent reduction in unburned hydrocarbons; an 11 percent reduction in carbon monoxide; and a 10 percent reduction in particulate matter. “Manufacturing biodiesel for World Energy is yet another example of how Dow is using its capabilities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency through a variety of means, including the advancement of alternative forms of energy, ranging from fuel cell technology to renewable feedstocks,” said Simon Upfill-Brown, general manager of Dow Haltermann Custom Processing. “Producing biodiesel fits our existing asset base, as well as Dow’s commitment to be part of the solution for climate change.”