Biofuels

Biofuel is a generic term used to describe liquid (or gaseous) fuels produced from biomass. Biofuels are commonly used as a substitute for, or additive to, petrol and diesel in transport and non-transport applications. The most commonly used biofuels are biodiesel and bioethanol.

Some biodiesel is already produced in New Zealand from waste cooking oil, tallow (a by-product of meat processing) and oil seed rape. Present uses include vehicles, fishing fleets and boilers.
 

Biodiesel Grants Scheme

The Biodiesel Grants Scheme was established to support biodiesel production in New Zealand. Starting on 1 June 2009, the programme will provide grants of up to $9 million in the first year, up to $12 million in the second year, and up to $15 million in the third year, at a maximum rate of 42.5 cents per litre of biodiesel.

• Read the Minister's media release
• Read about the Biodiesel Grants Scheme and its progress on the ECCA website

Find out more

• Information for drivers, businesses, researchers and biofuel producers can be found on the Energy & Conservation Authority (EECA) website
• Information on biofuel quality requirements can be found in the engine fuel quality section of this website.