With gas prices on the rise it is no wonder many are seeking alternative fuel options. What once seemed as a far off dream is now becoming an achievable reality to those seeking to switch from high priced imported oil to alternative fuel options.
The City of Milton is one of many cities offering a natural gas source to customers. Defined as a lower-carbon transport fuel, compressed natural gas can be used as an alternative to petrol and diesel in countries with a natural gas supply and distribution network. This not only cuts down on local pollution but also on tax dollars. Milton City Manager Brian Watkins said, “Years back the city had gotten away from the natural gas because conversion kits for trucks had become too expensive. However, we are now in the process of retrofitting the trucks. This is all due to cost,” he said. Watkins said the sell of natural gas is $1.96 for a gasoline gallon equivalent. “This makes savings around a $1.50 a gallon,” he said. Watkins said conversion kits are available for most any make of vehicle. “Now that the economy is coming down on conversion kits prices, it makes them much more affordable,” he said.
Santa Rosa County District 1 Commissioner Bob Cole has another fuel alternative at his fingertips. He is producing biodiesel for his personal usage in his tractors. He’s made his own fuel for over ten years.
“Biodiesel is very cost effective. As diesel fuel continues to rise, I believe more people will begin to see the need,” said Cole.
He said if someone were to be interested in biodiesel and producing it at home, it is important to educate themselves on specifics first.
Cole said biodiesel can soften old hoses in an older engine; it can tarnish fuel lines if the user changes from diesel to straight biodiesel or even a 50-50 combination because it loosens tarnish in fuel lines straight diesel causes in an engine. However, recycling vegetable oil is a plus, he said because the cooking oil doesn’t end up in the landfill. “As long as people utilize standard safety measures they can be successful,” he said.
Cole said the equivalent cost for an individual making their own fuel, not counting the cost of time, is $1 per gallon. With the rising cost of diesel fuel, the off setting cost is substantial.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Alternative fuel options in Santa Rosa County