Oregon Sets Biodiesel Mandate

Oregon has become the fifth state to enact a biodiesel requirement and the first to require strict testing of the fuel.

The measure aims to cut the state’s emissions 75% below 1990 levels by 2050 as part of an effort to curb global warming, the Associated Press reported.

The law will be implemented in stages beginning next year as the state’s biofuel production increases, said David Van’t Hof, a policy adviser for Gov. Ted Kulongoski (D).

Van’t Hof said current levels in Oregon are less than 1 million gallons per year. However, “based on the known construction of biofuels refineries going into the state right now, we anticipate that the mandate will be triggered in early 2008,” he said.

The law also contains a provision that requires biodiesel manufacturers and blenders to perform quality tests.

Under the new law, the state will aim to stop growth of greenhouse gas emissions by 2010; reduce emissions 10% below 1990 by 2020; and arrive at 75% below 1990 levels in 2050, AP reported.