Massachusetts Biodiesel Laws and Incentives

State Laws and Regulations

State Agency Alternative Fuel Use Requirement

Beginning in Fiscal Year 2008, all state agencies must use a minimum of 5% biodiesel in all on- and off-road diesel engines increasing to 15% by Fiscal Year 2010. Prior to 2010, the Division of Energy Resources (DOER) will determine if the increase to 15% biodiesel is feasible as well as which vehicles can operate using the fuel. In addition, DOER will set guidelines for the minimum required use of E85 ethanol in state flexible-fuel vehicles, depending on the availability of the fuel in the state. Agencies may apply for exemptions from the biodiesel and E85 fuel use requirements if they demonstrate that the alternative fuel is not available within a reasonable distance and/or the price of the alternative fuel is cost prohibitive, as determined by DOER. (Reference Massachusetts Executive Office of Administration and Finance Bulletin 13, 2006)

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Acquisition Requirement

State fleets must acquire AFVs according to the requirements of the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992. At least 75% of non-excluded vehicles purchased by the Massachusetts Department of Procurement and General Services (DPGS) must be the cleanest AFVs available and practical; at least 10% of the total non-excluded vehicles purchased by DPGS must be zero emission vehicles. (Reference Executive Order 388, 1997)