Experts warn on backyard biodiesel

Consumers are being warned that purchasing biodiesel from "backyard producers" could do more harm than good to their vehicles.

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and the Consumers' Institute in a statement yesterday said consumers could damage their engines by using the fuel.

Biodiesel from renewable sources can be made from used cooking oils, other oils or fats.

EECA senior adviser renewable energy Elizabeth Yeaman said biodiesel or biodiesel blends which did not meet quality specifications could cause harm.

"To be certain of what you're using, EECA recommends only purchasing biodiesel from established fuel retailers, once it is commercially available - the same places you would normally purchase petrol or diesel from."

There is only a voluntary New Zealand Standard for biodiesel, but the Government intended to regulate that before 2008, she said.

In the duration EECA had developed a biofuels label to protect consumers, and only biodiesel producers that met the New Zealand standard would be issued the label.

"EECA's message is don't buy biodiesel or other biofuels unless they have the EECA biofuels label displayed."

Some companies are in the process of applying for the label but none has it, she said.

Consumers' Institute spokesman Hamish Wilson said to avoid problems, consumers should always use quality fuels in their vehicles.

"Although you could use the Consumer Guarantees Act to claim engine repair costs from a back yard biodiesel producer, it's smarter to avoid trouble - don't buy or use biodiesel that does not meet the standard."

Ms Yeaman said biofuels were a key way to improve New Zealand's energy use, with transport fuel representing 42 per cent of New Zealand's total energy use.

EECA was working to change the way New Zealanders thought about and used energy by promoting and supporting the uptake of energy efficiency initiatives, she said.

- NZPA