BLP wraps up organic diesel fuel test

After a year-long study, Grand Haven Board of Light & Power officials are now looking at the results of the organic diesel fuel tests. The BLP contracted with Muskegon-based Alternative Energy Solutions (AES) to produce and test an organic diesel created from local sources such as restaurant waste oils, soy, canola and algae. The project was made possible by a $66,680 Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant. BLP Director of Production Dan Bush said the project, which was made possible by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, has proven its value.

Alex Doty

Grand Haven

Apr 5, 2011

“AES is now competing in the diesel fuel market as the cost of retail diesel fuel climbs to the $3.50 to $4 per gallon price,” Bush said. “The BLP and its employees are pleased to participate in this project and in helping America reduce its dependency on foreign oil.”

During the course of the grant period, AES delivered more than 8,000 gallons of fuel to the diesel plant.

“Advantages of this biofuel alternative energy product include low investment, on-demand electricity — and a community fuel source that is independent of fuel reserves, foreign oil volatility and weather variables,” Bush said.

To read more of this story, see today's print edition of the Grand Haven Tribune.