New Yorkers get tax credit for using Bioheat fuel, helping shrink carbon footprint (letter to the editor)
By Rocco J. Lacertosa
First published on SILive.com.
Many New Yorkers are discussing the importance of shrinking our carbon footprints and reducing emissions in the air we breathe. One of the simplest ways to accomplish this goal is through the use of Bioheat fuel. Today, I’d like to talk to you about the history and evolution of Bioheat fuel here in New York, and why using Bioheat fuel to keep our homes and families warm is the way of the future.
Bioheat fuel is a blend of traditional heating fuel and renewable biodiesel. Biodiesel is made from a variety of natural materials that are recycled or agricultural by-products, like inedible corn oil, animal fats, used cooking oil, and other materials that would otherwise be wasted. Additionally, researchers are working on processes to produce biodiesel from algae and other non-food crops.
New York’s government has been at the forefront of the transition to Bioheat fuel since the beginning. Back in 2010, the New York City Council passed a landmark measure requiring that a percentage of biodiesel be blended into all heating oil, and that lower-sulfur heating oil be used to heat apartments and commercial buildings. This law required all grades of heating oil to contain at least 2% biodiesel beginning in the fall of the following year.
In 2016, another law was passed which raised the minimum biodiesel component in New York City’s heating oil to 5%, or B5 Bioheat fuel. The change went into effect a year later and made New York City a national leader in the use of Bioheat fuel for home heating. As of July 1, 2023, all Bioheat fuel sold across New York state must contain at least 5% biodiesel and will increase to 10% by 2025 and 20% by 2030.
The state encourages the usage of Bioheat fuel with a tax credit that allows residents who use blends of B6 (6% biodiesel) or higher to claim a direct income tax credit of up to 20 cents for every gallon they buy.
Thanks to its widespread adoption across New York City and beyond, it’s clear that Bioheat fuel is a sustainable, reliable energy source for the future. Resources are available about Bioheat fuel at NYSECnow.org or MyBioheat.com.
(Rocco J. Lacertosa is the chief executive officer of the New York State Energy Coalition.)
