Purpose
Minnesota was the first state to mandate the use of biodiesel. As of May 1, 2009, all diesel fuel sold or offered for sale in Minnesota must contain 5 percent biodiesel (B5), and by 2015, state law mandates the blending of 20 percent biodiesel into the diesel fuel supply (B20).
Because it is made from a locally-grown, renewable resource, using biodiesel can help boost Minnesota’s farm economy and reduce dependence on foreign fossil fuels. It is estimated that the state’s B5 requirement will replace 40 million gallons of diesel fuel with domestic, renewable biodiesel—and Minnesota’s 65 million gallons of biodiesel production capacity can easily meet that demand.
Statutory Requirement
M.S. 239.77, Subd. 5. Annual report. Beginning in 2009, the commissioner of agriculture must report by January 15 of each year to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees and divisions with jurisdiction over agriculture policy and finance regarding the implementation of the minimum content requirements in subdivision 2, including information about the price and supply of biodiesel fuel. The report shall include information about the impacts of the biodiesel mandate on the development of biodiesel production capacity in the state, and on the use of feedstock grown or raised in the state for biodiesel production. The report must include any written comments received from members of the biodiesel fuel task force by January 1 of that year designated by them for inclusion in the report.
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