Page 14 - Colorado Construction & Design Magazine - Spring 2023

North America is seeing a growing emphasis on sustainability and the role environmental initiatives play in making the world a cleaner, greener place to live. Both the United States and Canada have
set targets to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.
As states and equipment manufacturers set carbon neutrality and net emissions goals of their own,
more fleets and jobsites are striving to meet “green quotas” as they go about their daily work.
It’s important to remember that a focus on sustainability means more than environmental benefits; it can also play a direct role in helping contractors reduce energy usage, improve efficiency and, as a result, increase profitability. Equipment that can run on battery power and other alternative power sources has gained popularity; however, options that create environmentally friendly solutions for diesel consumption are a critical piece of the puzzle. This is where renewable diesel takes the stage — a new diesel option that reduces carbon emissions by up to 85%.
vegetable oils, greases and natural fats. Like biodiesel, renewable diesel reduces particle emissions. But unlike biodiesel, renewable diesel is processed by treating oils with hydrogen, which removes the limitations related to reduced shelf life and cold-weather performance that first-generation biodiesel encountered.
The renewable diesel production process involves saturating feedstocks — such as vegetable oils or waste fats — with hydrogen at temperatures above 572°F (300°C). The final step in the process is isomerization, which creates a fuel that’s almost chemically identical to petroleum diesel. This means renewable diesel can be used interchangeably with petroleum diesel without requiring additives or special blends.
Storing renewable diesel follows the same guidelines
as regular oils like petroleum diesel, kerosene and other fuel blends. Of course, these fuel storage regulations
vary depending on the location and use of the tank, but typically require a UL Listed tank and a form of secondary containment. On-site fuel storage manufacturers understand these guidelines, and some have created their fuel tanks to be not only UL Listed, but also to include double-walled containment to eliminate the need for a secondary containment pan.
Benefits of Renewable Diesel
Renewable Diesel 101
Traditionally, diesel — also called petroleum diesel
or fossil fuel — is made from crude oil. It has long been a popular fuel for large equipment due to diesel engines’ ability to take on heavy-duty work. Although petroleum diesel is often favored, it is derived from a non-renewable source of energy and also contributes to air pollution.
Biodiesel’s introduction created an option to reduce these concerns.
With components that maximize the benefits of both biodiesel and petroleum diesel, renewable diesel is setting the standard for the future.
With flexible storage solutions, contractors can be ready to use the best diesel option for their application while reducing emissions during transport and refueling, no matter which type of fuel they choose.
Renewable diesel’s ability to serve as a direct drop-in alternative for petroleum diesel is just the start
of the advantages this fuel provides. From reduced maintenance and long storage life to its
environmental benefits, renewable diesel is a win for everyone involved
However, biodiesel has its limitations. It’s not a direct drop-in replacement for diesel and doesn’t perform as well in cold temperatures due to its chemical composition. Now, renewable diesel enters the playing field. With components that maximize the benefits of both biodiesel and petroleum diesel, renewable diesel is setting the standard for the future.
Renewable diesel is a sustainable, low-carbon biofuel derived from waste products and other biomass such as
14 | Colorado Construction & Design
and excels as an option for all applications where diesel power is required.
Renewable diesel’s clean burning properties reduce particulate production by up to 50%, helping to improve air quality. This is a method contractors can use to meet carbon emission targets for projects while potentially limiting the need to make other changes that might impact jobsite efficiency. This reduced particulate
A Sustainable Fuel Solution
How renewable diesel can combine with on-site fuel storage to reduce carbon emissions.
By Jeff Lowe, Western Global Vice President — Product Marketing
www.ccdmag.com | news@ccdmag.com
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