Marine Biodiesel (Bx): What Is It?

"Marine Bx" is a renewable fuel made from vegetable oil, waste grease and/or other plant based greases and oils. It is a cleaner, more environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum diesel or "petrodiesel."

Biodiesel, today, is produced commercially and available across the state. It is reliable, requires no engine modifications to use, and is an exellent alternative to standard petrodiesel for marine engines.

The Gulf of Maine Biodiesel Initiative
As Mainer's we have a special connection to our oceans and waterways. They provide transportation cooridoors and the resources that, over generations, we have depended on to feed our children and drive our economy. Acknowledging the importance of our ocean ecosystems, many Mainers, including fishermen and ferry boat operators, have opted to take a simple, easy step toward conservation by using biodiesel in their marine engines.

In an effort to educate more Maine marine diesel users about biodiesel, the Maine Energy Investment Corporation has teamed up with the Chewonki Foundation and The Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment to form the Gulf of Maine Biodiesel Initiative. The initiative aims to increase use, distribution, and production of biodiesel in Maine.

This goal is to be accomplished through educational outreach, documenting interest in using renewable fuels, and working to connect customers with fuel suppliers.

"We believe in the protection and responsible use of Maine’s natural resources, as well as protecting people’s health and security, while supporting growth in the economy."

For more information about Chewonki, or the funding partner, The Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment, please visit www.Chewonki.org, or www.GulfofMaine.org.