Star Oilco

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Fuel Market Report: March 10th, 2024 – March 16th, 2024 1024 683 Star Oilco

Fuel Market Report: March 10th, 2024 – March 16th, 2024
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Oregon Fuel Price Variance

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Fuel Market News

The diesel market jumped this week with prices increasing by $0.12 on the wholesale market, to an average of $2.66 as of Monday. B20 prices experienced minor fluctuations as rack average pricing fluctuated only $0.05. The gasoline market experienced the biggest spike this past week as rack average prices increased by $0.23 from the week prior.

As predicted last week, retail fuel prices in Oregon are averaging slightly over $4/gal with most stations in Portland hovering around $3.99-4.10. Oil prices have surpassed $80/barrel for the first time in months, which will play a major role in the uptick in fuel prices in the market. Consumers can expect fuel prices to increase as we enter the Spring season this week on March 19th with the summer fuel blend hitting the market.

 

Take advantage of current fuel prices and top off your tank

 

Reasons For Lower Prices:

 

Crude oil is trading above $80 for the first time in months at a current price of $82.68/barrel. $4.55 higher than last week, as oil prices trended upward for the first time this month.

Crude oil is the main ingredient for gasoline and diesel. Per AAA, on average about 50% of what you pay at the pump is the price of crude oil, breaking down as 25% refining, 11% distribution & marketing, and 14% taxes—a helpful breakdown for consumers wondering why they are paying the prices that they pay. Crude Oil is trading at $82.68 per barrel compared to $78.13 last week and $84 a year ago.

It’s essential to recognize that fuel prices result from a complex interplay of the factors mentioned above and other factors regionally. Additionally, prices may vary by specific regions within Oregon and Washington. For the most precise and up-to-date information on fuel prices and the causes for these price changes within your area, use the links below for AAA & GasBuddy.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Star Oilco and speak to one of our fuel market advisors to discuss how the market can impact your business.

For other news in the fuel market:

● https://gasprices.aaa.com/?state=OR

● https://www.gasbuddy.com/charts

Join the Fuel Market Report newsletter for your weekly fill of updates!

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Fuel Market Report: March 3rd, 2024 – March 9th, 2024 150 150 Star Oilco

Fuel Market Report: March 3rd, 2024 – March 9th, 2024
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Oregon Fuel Price Variance

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Fuel Market News

The diesel market experienced downward price fluctuation, as rack average prices dropped $0.12 down from $2.71 last week. However, B20 rack averages experienced minor fluctuations closing the week at the same price they opened at. The gasoline market went up this week with rack average prices increasing $0.11 from the week prior.

We will likely see retail gas prices over $4.00 soon, as most stations in Portland are hovering around $3.90. Oil prices experienced minor fluctuations this week as prices shot up in the middle of the week but closed the week at the same price it did last week at $78/barrel. Oil prices are still under $80/barrel but consumers can still expect fuel prices to increase as we enter the Spring season next week on March 19th.

 

Take advantage of current fuel prices and top off your tank

 

Reasons For Lower Prices:

 

Crude oil is trading below $80 for the ninth straight week at a current price of $78.13/barrel. $0.36 lower than last week, as oil prices trended downward for the second week straight.

 

Crude oil is the main ingredient for gasoline and diesel. Per AAA, on average about 50% of what you pay at the pump is the price of crude oil, breaking down as 25% refining, 11% distribution & marketing, and 14% taxes—a helpful breakdown for consumers wondering why they are paying the prices that they pay. Crude Oil is trading at $78.13 per barrel compared to $78.49 last week and $83.70 a year ago.

It’s essential to recognize that fuel prices result from a complex interplay of the factors mentioned above and other factors regionally. Additionally, prices may vary by specific regions within Oregon and Washington. For the most precise and up-to-date information on fuel prices and the causes for these price changes within your area, use the links below for AAA & GasBuddy.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Star Oilco and speak to one of our fuel market advisors to discuss how the market can impact your business.

For other news in the fuel market:

● https://gasprices.aaa.com/?state=OR

● https://www.gasbuddy.com/charts

Join the Fuel Market Report newsletter for your weekly fill of updates!

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Saving Money On Rising Fuel Costs 1024 683 Star Oilco

Saving Money On Rising Fuel Costs

Here are some fuel-saving tips that a fuel delivery company can offer to their construction customers to help them save money on fuel.  

Optimize Routes and Schedules 

Plan deliveries to minimize travel distances and combine multiple stops whenever possible. This will reduce fuel and time costs and emissions from vehicles. Additionally, it will increase efficiency by reducing wait times and allowing for more deliveries to be made.

Reduced Costs & Environmental Impact: 

  • Minimize travel distances and combine deliveries to save on fuel and related expenses. 
  • This strategy also reduces emissions from our delivery vehicles, contributing to a greener future. 
  • Enhance your efficiency. By combining stops, we streamline delivery routes, reducing wait times and allowing for more deliveries in a shorter amount of time. 

Promote Proper Equipment Maintenance 

Every minute counts on a construction site, but even short breaks can lead to unnecessary engine idling. Idling not only wastes fuel and increases costs, but also contributes to air pollution. With Portland’s new fossil-based diesel fuel restrictions within city limits, with the larger effort to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, this is a great time to consider how your business operations can reduce its fuel consumption and overall work to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. To promote a more environmentally friendly work environment and keep fuel costs down, employees should work together to discourage idling. A simple yet powerful solution is to remind workers to completely shut down engines during breaks, no matter how short. This small step can significantly reduce our overall fuel consumption and create a cleaner, healthier site for everyone. 

Idle Reduction: 

  • Even short breaks can lead to unnecessary engine idling, wasting fuel and increasing costs. 
  • Idling also contributes to air pollution, impacting the environment and worker health. 

Simple Solution, Big Impact: 

  • To promote a cleaner, more cost-effective worksite, all employees should work together to discourage idling. 
  • Remind workers to completely shut down engines during breaks, no matter how short. 
  • This small step can significantly reduce fuel consumption and create a healthier environment for everyone. 

Invest in Fuel-Efficient Equipment 

Consider upgrading to newer equipment models known for better fuel economy. By investing in fuel-efficient equipment, businesses can reduce their fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint, as newer machines tend to be more fuel-efficient. Plus, newer models tend to have fewer parts and are more reliable, so businesses can expect to spend less on maintenance and repairs. 

Upgrading to fuel-efficient equipment: 

  • Reduces fuel costs for construction projects. 
  • Lowers a company’s carbon footprint by minimizing emissions. 

Newer equipment: 

  • Has fewer parts, simplifying maintenance needs. 
  • They also tend to be more reliable, leading to less downtime and repair expenses. 

Train Operators on Fuel-Saving Techniques

Operators should be trained on fuel-efficient driving habits, like avoiding excessive acceleration and maintaining steady speeds. Regular maintenance is crucial for fuel-efficient equipment as it ensures optimal performance and fuel efficiency. Maintenance services include regular engine tune-ups, oil changes, and air filter replacements, all of which contribute to better fuel economy. Additionally, regular maintenance helps to detect and fix any potential issues that may impact fuel efficiency, such as clogged or dirty fuel systems or faulty sensors, ultimately prolonging the life of the equipment and maximizing its fuel savings potential. 

Fuel-Efficient Operation: 

  • Avoid rapid acceleration and maintain steady speeds for optimal fuel economy. 

Regular Maintenance for Efficiency: 

  • Schedule routine engine tune-ups, oil changes, and air filter replacements. 

Identify & Fix Issues Early:  

  • Regularly check for clogged fuel systems, faulty sensors, and other potential issues. 
  • Early detection saves fuel and extends the equipment’s lifespan. 

Save Money with a Cardlock Fuel Card

Take control of your fueling operations and put money back in your pocket with a convenient cardlock fuel card program. Cardlock fuel cards are an easy way to track and manage fuel purchases. You save money and time by eliminating manual recordkeeping and billing. Plus, you can monitor fuel usage and get real-time reports. 

By applying these fuel-saving strategies, construction companies can experience significant cost reductions and environmental benefits. From optimizing delivery routes and promoting mindful equipment operation to regular maintenance practices, every step counts. 

Shop Your Fuel Bill
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JOIN THE FUEL MARKET REPORT NEWSLETTER FOR YOUR WEEKLY FILL OF UPDATES!

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Fuel Market Report: Feb 25th, 2024 – March 2nd, 2024 150 150 Star Oilco

Fuel Market Report: Feb 25th, 2024 – March 2nd, 2024
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Oregon Fuel Price Variance

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Fuel Market News

The market as a whole experienced minimal price changes this week. Rack average prices had no changes for three straight days this week, with minor fluctuations on Thursday and prices falling on Friday into the weekend. Retail prices have begun to rise as the average price per gal for gas in Portland raised $0.10 this week. California switches back to the summer blend of fuel earlier than other states and this has affected overall fuel supply on the West Coast. Consumers can expect to see prices continue to rise over the next few weeks into March as fuel prices normally increase in the first and second quarter of the year.

Oil prices increased to $78/barrel compared to $77 last week. Oil prices are still under $80/barrel but consumers can still expect fuel prices to increase.

 

Take advantage of current fuel prices and top off your tank

 

Reasons For Lower Prices:

 

Crude oil is trading below $80 for the eighth straight week at a current price of $78.49/barrel. $0.30 lower than last week, as oil prices trended downward for the first time in weeks. Although with a drop of $0.30, the market was hardly affected.

 

Crude oil is the main ingredient for gasoline and diesel. Per AAA, on average about 50% of what you pay at the pump is the price of crude oil, breaking down as 25% refining, 11% distribution & marketing, and 14% taxes—a helpful breakdown for consumers wondering why they are paying the prices that they pay. Crude Oil is trading at $78 per barrel compared to $77 last week and $85 a year ago.

It’s essential to recognize that fuel prices result from a complex interplay of the factors mentioned above and other factors regionally. Additionally, prices may vary by specific regions within Oregon and Washington. For the most precise and up-to-date information on fuel prices and the causes for these price changes within your area, use the links below for AAA & GasBuddy.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Star Oilco and speak to one of our fuel market advisors to discuss how the market can impact your business.

For other news in the fuel market:

● https://gasprices.aaa.com/?state=OR

● https://www.gasbuddy.com/charts

Join the Fuel Market Report newsletter for your weekly fill of updates!

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Fuel Market Report: Feb 18th, 2024 – Feb 24th, 2024 150 150 Star Oilco

Fuel Market Report: Feb 18th, 2024 – Feb 24th, 2024
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Oregon Fuel Price Variance

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Fuel Market News

The diesel market experienced minor price fluctuations throughout the week closing at $2.77, only $0.05 higher than its opening price of $2.73. The gas market experienced much more extreme price fluctuations, closing the week at $2.74, $0.43 higher than its opening price of $2.31. Many refineries are running the last of their winter fuel blend and will be undergoing maintenance as they make the switch back to the summer blend of fuel. This may have effects on overall supplies in many regions which will likely contribute to the upward movement of fuel prices across the board.
Oil prices dropped slightly to $77/barrel compared to $78 last week. Oil prices are still under $80/barrel which is often a good sign for fuel prices.

 

Take advantage of current fuel prices and top off your tank

 

Reasons For Lower Prices:

Crude oil is trading below $80 for the seventh straight week at a current price of $77.78/barrel. $0.30 lower than last week, as oil prices trended downward for the first time in weeks. Although with a drop of $0.30, the market was hardly affected.

Crude oil is the main ingredient for gasoline and diesel. Per AAA, on average about 50% of what you pay at the pump is the price of crude oil, breaking down as 25% refining, 11% distribution & marketing, and 14% taxes—a helpful breakdown for consumers wondering why they are paying the prices that they pay. Crude Oil is trading at $77 per barrel compared to $78 last week and $87 a year ago.

It’s essential to recognize that fuel prices result from a complex interplay of the factors mentioned above and other factors regionally. Additionally, prices may vary by specific regions within Oregon and Washington. For the most precise and up-to-date information on fuel prices and the causes for these price changes within your area, use the links below for AAA & GasBuddy.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Star Oilco and speak to one of our fuel market advisors to discuss how the market can impact your business.

For other news in the fuel market:

● https://gasprices.aaa.com/?state=OR

● https://www.gasbuddy.com/charts

Join the Fuel Market Report newsletter for your weekly fill of updates!

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How does mobile cardless pay work with Pacific Pride & CFN? 349 335 Star Oilco

How does mobile cardless pay work with Pacific Pride & CFN?

Pacific Pride offers a mobile cardless pay option through their app, PRIDE PAY.

With PRIDE PAY, drivers can initiate fueling directly from the app at participating Pacific Pride locations without a physical card.

Here’s how it works: 

Download and install the PRIDE PAY app on your mobile device.

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Sign in using your Pacific Pride account credentials.

Locate a participating Pacific Pride station within the app.

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Once at the station, initiate fueling through the app, responding to any prompts for authorization.

Fuel your vehicle and complete the transaction directly through the app.

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There are many Pacific Pride fueling locations throughout the United States and Canada. There are over 1,400 locations in total, and that number is still growing. You can find Pacific Pride stations in a variety of places, including truck stops, convenience stores, and travel plazas. Since Pacific Pride locations are independently owned and operated, not all services are available at all locations. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm amenities offered at a station.   

Mobile cardless payment systems, also known as contactless payment, can improve your business’s bottom line and efficiency in several ways:  

Faster Checkout Time: Mobile payments are faster. This reduces checkout times, keeps lines moving, and improves the customer experience.  

Reduced Costs: Less time spent processing payments translates to lower labor costs. Additionally, mobile payments eliminate manual cash handling, reducing errors and costs.  

Increased Sales: Faster checkouts can lead to higher customer satisfaction and impulse purchases.   

Improved Cash Flow: Transactions are settled electronically, which means you receive funds faster than checks or waiting for credit card payments to clear.   

Enhanced Security: Mobile cardless payments use secure authentication, where a unique digital identifier is used instead of your actual card details. This reduces fraud risk compared to physical cards.  

Data & Sales Insights: One of the benefits of mobile payments is that they provide you with data and insights into your sales activity.   

Operational Efficiency: Mobile payment systems can streamline back-office operations by simplifying record-keeping and reconciliation.  

Accessibility: Mobile cardless payments are convenient for businesses and customers.   

PRIDE PAY offers many benefits like convenience, security, and potential fuel discounts. Remember to check with your Pacific Pride account manager for details and ensure your company account is enrolled in the program. 

An additional bonus is the ability to track multiple drivers, companies can gain insights into their routes, driving behavior, and travel times. This allows for better coordination, improved time management, and reduced fuel consumption. Additionally, tracking helps to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement in the overall transportation process, leading to cost savings and reduced paperwork through automated reporting. 

In the end, this advanced tracking system goes beyond simple location monitoring, transforming fleet management into a data-driven operation that optimizes efficiency, cuts costs, and streamlines the entire transportation process. 

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JOIN THE FUEL MARKET REPORT NEWSLETTER FOR YOUR WEEKLY FILL OF UPDATES!

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Fuel Market Report: Feb 4th, 2024 – Feb 10th, 2024 150 150 Star Oilco

Fuel Market Report: Feb 4th, 2024 – Feb 10th, 2024
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Oregon Fuel Price Variance

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Fuel Market News

The diesel market experienced spikes throughout the week, as the market closed $0.20 higher on Friday from its opening OPIS rack average of $3.48. Gasoline prices fluctuated upwards as prices rose $0.08 to end the week. Oil prices increased this week going from $72/barrel to $76/barrel. This price increase could likely be partly responsible for the uptick in diesel prices. As we approach March, fuel prices are likely to continue their price hike into Spring.

Take advantage of current fuel prices and top off your tank

 

Reasons For Lower Prices:

Crude oil is trading below $80 for the fifth straight week at a current price of $76.21/barrel. $2.00 higher than last week, as oil prices trended upward for the second week straight.

Crude oil is the main ingredient for gasoline and diesel. Per AAA, on average about 50% of what you pay at the pump is the price of crude oil, breaking down as 25% refining, 11% distribution & marketing, and 14% taxes—a helpful breakdown for consumers wondering why they are paying the prices that they pay. Crude Oil is trading at $76 per barrel compared to $72 last week and $89 a year ago.

It’s essential to recognize that fuel prices result from a complex interplay of the factors mentioned above and other factors regionally. Additionally, prices may vary by specific regions within Oregon and Washington. For the most precise and up-to-date information on fuel prices and the causes for these price changes within your area, use the links below for AAA & GasBuddy.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Star Oilco and speak to one of our fuel market advisors to discuss how the market can impact your business.

For other news in the fuel market:

● https://gasprices.aaa.com/?state=OR

● https://www.gasbuddy.com/charts

Join the Fuel Market Report newsletter for your weekly fill of updates!

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January 2024 Fuel Market Recap 1024 697 Star Oilco

January 2024 Fuel Market Recap

January 2024 Fuel Market Recap for Portland, Oregon

  • Stable oil prices: Unlike previous years, oil prices remained relatively stable in January 2024 globally, impacting local markets like Portland. This stability stemmed from:
    • Increased oil production from the Americas.
    • Weaker economic growth globally, leading to lower demand.
    • Ongoing geopolitical tensions with limited impact on supply chains.
  • Gradual price increase: Despite stability, experts predicted a gradual increase in fuel prices starting in March 2024

Review the January 2024 recap on the Fuel Market for the United States, As Well As Key Factors Affecting Fuel Prices and Predictions for February 2024, on our website.

The average price of a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Portland, Oregon, was $4.61 on November 30, 2023, up from $4.44 on November 1, 2023. This represents a 3.6% increase over the month.

January 2024 Fuel Market Recap for United States

Overall stability: January 2024 saw continued fuel price stability compared to December 2023.

Crude oil: Prices remained relatively stable compared to previous years, averaging around $75 per barrel.

Gasoline: Average retail price hovered around $3.30 per gallon, slightly lower than December 2023.

Diesel: Prices stayed consistent with December 2023, ranging from $3.70 to $3.90 per gallon.

Natural gas: Prices fluctuated throughout the month but ended within the same range as December 2023, around $2.50-$3.00 per MMBtu.

Key influencing factors

Stable global oil production: Increased production from the Americas balanced global demand.

Weaker global economic growth: Lowered demand for crude oil and refined products.

Geopolitical tensions: Although ongoing, their impact on oil supply chains was limited in January.

Seasonal demand: Winter weather in January did not reach extreme levels, impacting natural gas demand less than expected.

Regional variations:

Fuel prices can vary significantly between regions due to factors like taxes, transportation costs, and refinery capacity.

For specific regional variations, it’s crucial to consult resources like:

Local news reports: Articles mentioning fuel prices in your area.

Industry publications: Trade publications related to specific fuel types might offer regional reports.

Fuel delivery companies: Contacting local providers for localized insights and January-specific details.

Predictions for February 2024

While unexpected events like geopolitical shifts or extreme weather conditions can always influence fuel prices, it appears that most experts predict continued stability in crude oil prices throughout February, barring unforeseen events. This could translate to stable or slightly fluctuating fuel prices across the US. Some analysts foresee a gradual price increase starting in March 2024, which could potentially impact February prices to a minor extent.

Exploring Options for Sustainable Fuels

While gasoline and diesel remain dominant players, venturing into the world of alternative energy sources offers exciting possibilities.

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Biodiesel, derived from renewable resources like plants or used cooking oil, boasts a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to conventional diesel. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power eliminate greenhouse gas emissions altogether, contributing to a cleaner planet.

Diversifying Your Fuel Mix

Dependence on a single fuel source presents vulnerability to price fluctuations and supply disruptions. Embracing alternative options fosters energy security by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and opening doors to diverse, domestic energy sources.

Long-Term Gains

While initial setup costs for renewable energy systems might be higher, long-term benefits outweigh them. Biodiesel can offer price parity with diesel in some regions, and renewable energy costs are steadily declining.

Start Small, Experiment, and Adapt

Gradually incorporate alternative fuels or renewable energy sources into your operations. Learn from experience and adjust your approach as needed.

Remember, the transition to a sustainable fuel future is an ongoing process. By exploring options like biodiesel and renewable energy, we can power our world responsibly, ensuring a more secure and environmentally friendly future for generations to come. Feel free to contact one of our fuel experts at Star Oilco to discuss how renewable fuels can benefit your operations.

JOIN THE FUEL MARKET REPORT NEWSLETTER FOR YOUR WEEKLY FILL OF UPDATES!

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Fuel Market Report: Jan 28th, 2024 – Feb 3rd, 2024 150 150 Star Oilco

Fuel Market Report: Jan 28th, 2024 – Feb 3rd, 2024
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Oregon Fuel Price Variance

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Fuel Market News

Fuel prices across the board had minor variance with no real significant impact on the market with price changes between $0.01-$0.03 for both gas and diesel. This is common for this time of year, as fuel prices hit their yearly lows and begin to rebound, gauging overall demand. Drivers are still enjoying relatively low fuel prices in February, but this won’t last for long as prices will likely begin to climb in March and onward into the spring season. Oil prices dropped significantly this week going from $78/barrel to $72/barrel. Although the market has yet to see any of this heavily affect prices at the pump.

Take advantage of current fuel prices and top off your tank

 

Reasons For Lower Prices:

Crude oil is the main ingredient for gasoline and diesel. Per AAA, on average about 50% of what you pay at the pump is the price of crude oil, breaking down as 25% refining, 11% distribution & marketing, and 14% taxes—a helpful breakdown for consumers wondering why they are paying the prices that they pay. Crude Oil is trading around $72 per barrel compared to $78 last week and $89 a year ago.

It’s essential to recognize that fuel prices result from a complex interplay of the factors mentioned above in addition to other factors regionally. Additionally, prices may vary by specific regions within Oregon and Washington. For the most precise and up-to-date information on fuel prices and the causes for these price changes within your area, it is advisable to consult local news outlets, government energy agencies, or industry reports.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Star Oilco and speak to one of our fuel market advisors to discuss how the market can impact your business.

For other news in the fuel market:

● https://gasprices.aaa.com/?state=OR

● https://www.gasbuddy.com/charts

Join the Fuel Market Report newsletter for your weekly fill of updates!

Sign Up
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Every Question We Have Been Asked About Renewable Diesel 1024 696 Star Oilco

Every Question We Have Been Asked About Renewable Diesel

Renewable Diesel Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Every Question we have been asked about Renewable Diesel

What is renewable diesel?

Renewable diesel is a synthetic diesel fuel, known for it’s lower CO2 characteristics, typically seeing purity and real world performance response superior to petroleum diesel fuel.  Renewable diesel is a next generation hydrocarbon diesel biofuel made by either the Fischer-Tropsch or Hydrogenation processes.

Hydrogenated renewable diesel is made by taking fats, oils, and greases by use of a hydro-treater.  The biomass based oil or fat is cracked and reformed in the presence of hydrogen and  catalyst forming a hydrocarbon diesel molecule.

Fischer-Tropsch renewable diesel is used by converting any btu dense feedstock (wood waste, woody biomass, municipal garbage, coal, and an endless list of low value waste products into syngas, then converting this into a wax that is reformed into hydrocarbon diesel.

Can Renewable Diesel be used as Heating Oil?

Yes.  Renewable Diesel is a synthetic hydrocarbon diesel fuel.  It can be used interchangeably with petroleum diesel products of similar grade. Heating Oil is typically number 2 diesel which is the same specification as Dyed R99 Renewable Diesel (or blends of Renewable Diesel with petroleum diesel).   Star Oilco now offers R99 Heating Oil delivered in the Portland metro region area of Oregon.

Most modern oil heat appliances use a Becket Burner.  For more on heating fuel compatibility with oil furnaces and oil burning appliance please see “Alternative Fuels and Becket Burners” for more information.

Why do people use renewable diesel over petroleum diesel?

Fleet managers operating R99 Renewable Diesel report a lower mechanical cost of operation using the fuel.  Beyond the immediate benefit of R99 cutting CO2 emissions by half or more, fleets experience performance benefits from the fuel.  Anecdotally the big savings are seen the the performance of Tier 4 Emission systems on modern diesel seeing far less wear of the Diesel Particulate Filter system as well as far fewer regenerations of the system.  Additionally Renewable Diesel is a very clean and dry diesel fuel improving the storage stability, field operation, and general predictability of the fuel’s performance.

What is renewable diesel made of?

Renewable diesel can be made from a host of things, usually a low value waste product. The most common feedstock used currently is waste vegetable oil, wastes from animal rendering, and other biologically derived oils. Processes using bio-oils are following a Hydrogenation process to turn low value waste oils into high value diesel and jet fuel.

Chevron Renewable Energy Group and Diamond Green Diesel (Diamond Green is in a joint venture with Valero) are the largest producer of renewable diesel with their REG Ultra Clean Diesel product in the United States. Neste is the largest producer of renewable diesel internationally, with its “Neste My” product.  being the two largest producers of low CO2 bio-oil derived renewable diesel fuels.

Major petroleum refiners have also turned around existing petroleum refineries into Renewable Diesel Refineries to produce this in demand low CO2 fuel. HF Sinclair , Marathon, Phillips 66, and Montana Renewables. There are quite a few newer Renewable Diesel projects planned and in progress around the United States as well as in the Pacific Northwest.

Other refiners of renewable diesel (on a much smaller scale of production) are using a Fischer-Tropsch process with wood waste, sorted higher grade municipal garbage, and other high btu value carbon based waste products.  Many expect this to technology to be the future of all diesel and jet fuel refining turning refuse into fungible low carbon fuel.

What is renewable hydrocarbon diesel?

Renewable hydrocarbon diesel is a synthetic diesel fuel made from non-petroleum feedstocks like vegetable oil, animal fats, municipal waste, agricultural biomass, and woody biomass. It is characterized by having a low CO2 and renewable resource for its feedstock and is made without crude petroleum, coal, or natural gas as a direct feedstock input in the refining process.

How do they make renewable diesel?

Renewable diesel is made by several processes. If you are buying renewable diesel, it is probably from a Hydrogenation process used by Renewable Energy Group and Neste for their products. Other smaller volume producers are using a Fischer-Tropsch process or Fast Pyrolysis. Both processes involve taking energy dense molecules, cracking those molecules under heat and pressure, then reforming them in the presence of a catalyst and added hydrogen, which forms a renewable diesel molecule.

Is renewable diesel a lower carbon fuel compared to petroleum diesel?

Yes, to this point all renewable diesel made from renewable feedstocks have appeared to be a lower CO2 fuel compared to petroleum diesels. The California Air Research Board in particular has done research on this in depth.

The low CO2 lifecycle emissions of Renewable Diesel also is tracked closely and supervised by California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, Washington’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, and Oregon’s Clean Fuels Program. The highest value markets for low CO2 fuels in the United States are California and Oregon, which both have mechanisms that track and price the CO2 intensity of diesel fuels as well as the sustainable lower CO2 substitutes and blend-stocks that can go in those diesels. They track, rate, and determine the carbon intensity of the fuels providing a neutral and scientifically defensible number for CO2 reduction.

Is renewable diesel available in Oregon?

Renewable diesel is readily available for delivery from Star Oilco throughout the Pacific Northwest via 10,000 gallon volumes of bulk delivery.   Star Oilco is also offering bulk delivery of any size and mobile onsite fueling service within 100 miles of the Portland, Oregon market.

Star Oilco has R99 Renewable Diesel available with a Star Oilco CFN Cardlock card in Portland, Oregon.

What is the difference between biodiesel and renewable diesel?

Biodiesel and renewable diesel are very different fuels made with very different processes. In a nutshell, biodiesel is made with a simple chemical reaction that turns vegetable and animal fats into fuel. Renewable diesel is made from far more complicated process where vegetable and animal fats (as well as other feedstocks) are cracked on a molecular level and built back into synthetic diesel fuel.

What is the difference between renewable diesel and Sustainable Aviation Fuel?

The difference between the fuels is the specific gravity and general specification for what the fuel is used for. Jet fuel, or Sustainable Aviation Fuel, and on-road diesel fuel are different fuels and therefore have different specifications. Renewable diesel is typically referring to a #2 diesel specification for on road diesel use.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel or “SAF” is typically referring to “Jet A” or “JP8” jet fuel specification for fuel. This is a #1 diesel range fuel with use and handling requirements that are far more stringent than for on-road or off-road diesel fuels. Renewable jet fuel can be used as a kerosene or #1 diesel fuel but renewable diesel cannot be used as a jet fuel.

Where do I buy renewable diesel in Oregon or Washington?

Renewable Diesel is currently available for bulk delivery and mobile onsite fueling. It will soon be offered at commercial cardlock in the Portland area. It is being sold as R99 and as Ultra Clean Diesel, which is a mixture of biodiesel, renewable diesel, and petroleum diesel.

What is R99?

R99 stands for 99% renewable diesel and 1% petroleum diesel.  Federal rules over alternative diesel fuels made fuels requires that manufacturers of non-petroleum derived diesel fuels must blend a minimum 1% petroleum with the fuel to generate a Renewable Industry Number or “RIN” under the US Federal Renewable Fuel Standard. Additionally there are other incentives that require a “blender of record” to receive these tax credits.

Is renewable diesel being made in Oregon?

As of Spring 2022, renewable diesel is not being manufactured in Oregon. There is a major projects underway, Next Renewable Fuels in Port Westward, Oregon.

What is renewable diesel made from?

Renewable diesel can be made from many energy dense carbon based material.  By volume of produced product sold in the United States, vegetable oils and animal fat-based wastes are the most common feedstock. Woody biomass, agricultural wastes, and sorted municipal wastes are also sources for renewable diesel production.

Is renewable diesel made from palm oil?

Palm oil can be used as a feedstock for renewable diesel. There are producers who use palm oil as a feedstock. In the United States, feedstocks and carbon intensity are tracked closely under both Oregon and California’s fuel programs.  You can determine if a supplier is using palm oil as a feedstock through these regulated pathways.

How much does renewable diesel cost?

This is a tough question to answer given there are several markets intersecting.  From the feedstocks to the market demand for the finished product as well as both California and Oregon’s Clean Fuel Standards which place a price on the CO2 intensity of the fuel which reduces the cost of the fuel if consumed in Oregon and California.

It has consistently been trending between the same cost and over $1 a gallon higher than petroleum diesel depending on the state, you buy renewable diesel in. In California, renewable diesel is very close to petroleum diesel depending on the value of CO2 credits for lower-carbon fuels. In Oregon, it has consistently been between $.05 to $.80 a gallon higher than diesel also depending on the value of CO2 abatement associated with the fuel and what these carbon credits are trading for.

When petroleum diesel costs are high Renewable Diesel tends to be more competitive with petroleum diesel.  When petroleum diesel is below $3 a gallon the cost of Renewable Diesel by comparison is usually higher unless CO2 credits are in higher than normal demand for Clean Fuels Program demands.

Can you mix petroleum diesel and renewable diesel?

Yes. Renewable diesel and petroleum diesel can be blended in any mixture without worry. They are drop-in substitutes for each other in your fleet’s use.  Renewable Diesel is a drop-in fuel. It is a hydrocarbon diesel that will work mixed with diesel or biodiesel blends of petroleum diesel.

More questions coming… or if you would like to learn more contact us.

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