Governor Rod Blagojevich singed a law that expands the use of cleaner, alternative fuels to benefit the environment, farmers and Illinois drivers. Drivers using fuels with a minimum of 20% biodiesel blend are now eligible for rebates, under the new law. Previously, the blend had to be at 80% or higher, and most diesel vehicles cannot use 80% blends without major modifications.
Blagojevich said, “I am proud that Illinois is a national leader in the production and use of cleaner-burning fuels like biodiesel made from soybean oil.” Expanding the incentives of the program is good for both those who buy and those who sell these greener Illinois fuels. Senator Deanna Demuzio, D-Carlinville, the bills sponsor, said that making 20% or higher blended biodiesel fuel blends eligible for Illinois Environment Protection Agency rebates is another significant step by the General Assembly and the governor, and another reason why Illinois is a leader in producing and using alternative fuels.
Currently, the Illinois EPA’s program has three types of rebates designed to reimburse consumers for the additional costs of purchasing an alternate fuel vehicle, converting a vehicle to run on alternate fuel, and consistently using an alternate fuel instead of gasoline or diesel. The rebates vary by fuel, and the maximum rebate is $4,000.00 per vehicle. Eligible fuels include biodiesel – B20 and higher blends, E-85, natural gas, propane and the latest addition, hydrogen.
Alternative fuels are cleaner and becoming more affordable. They are also providing Illinois with energy benefits, as well as economic and environmental.
Editor's Note: Information for this article obtained from Illinois AgriNews
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