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New Hampshire Biodiesel Laws and Incentives


State Laws and Regulations

Biodiesel Study Commission

The Biodiesel Study Commission is directed to study the biodiesel production capacity in New Hampshire; state and regional feedstock sources for production; and methods to encourage production. The Commission will also provide information about the best methods of biodiesel distribution and potential barriers to increased use. The study will track current biodiesel demand and offer suggestions to encourage increased biodiesel demand. (Reference House Bill House Bill 689, 2007)

Biodiesel Definition

Biodiesel is a renewable diesel fuel substitute that is composed of mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids, is derived from vegetable oils or animal fats and meets the requirements of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) specification D6751. Biodiesel is considered a renewable energy source. (Reference New Hampshire Revised Statutes Title XXXIV, Chapter 362-A:1-a)

Idle Reduction and Fuel Efficient, Low Emission Vehicle Acquisition Requirements

State agencies and departments are required to implement a Clean Fleets Program in accordance with the recommendations of the Energy Efficiency in State Government Steering Committee, including but not limited to the following components:

  1. An anti-idling policy;
  2. A highway fuel economy rating of at least 27.5 miles per gallon (mpg) for all new passenger and light-duty vehicles and at least 20 mpg for all new light-duty trucks except for emergency and law enforcement vehicles;
  3. All new passenger and light-duty vehicles be certified as low emission vehicles in accordance with the recommendations of the Energy Efficiency in State Government Steering Committee;
  4. All vehicle purchases be in compliance with the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct) if applicable;
  5. A waiver procedure for requesting vehicles not on the approved Department of Administrative Services vehicle list;
  6. Additional measures to promote fuel conservation.

(Reference Executive Order 2005-4)