What to Consider Before You Start a Biodiesel Business

Introduction

Starting a biodiesel business can be exciting, with numerous successful examples to draw inspiration from. Before diving in, it’s important to have an overview of what to expect and consider crucial factors.

Luckily, plenty of resources can guide you through the startup phase and support your business’s growth.

This comprehensive post will cover the essential steps you need to take.

Bookmark this page for future reference, and don’t forget to share if you find it helpful!

Let’s get started with the steps.

Steps to Starting a Biodiesel Business

1. Gaining An Overview

a.) Is Starting a Business the Right Step for You?

Owning a biodiesel business can be awesome. You’re in charge, making decisions, earning cash, and living the dream. But let me tell you; it’s not easy at first. Before you jump into starting your own biodiesel business, you need to be sure it’s the right move for you. You need to be doing it for the right reasons.

Check out my article below for tips on figuring out if starting a biodiesel business is right for you.

See Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify key points for a new business owner.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Biodiesel Business

Running a biodiesel business comes with several key considerations and potential opportunities. Biodiesel, a renewable fuel made from vegetable oils or animal fats, presents an eco-friendly alternative to traditional diesel.

Entrepreneurs entering this industry should expect to navigate a variety of factors.

First, securing a reliable feedstock supply, such as soybean or recycled cooking oil, is essential for production. Building or acquiring appropriate processing facilities to convert feedstock into biodiesel will also be crucial.

Furthermore, compliance with government regulations regarding fuel standards and emissions is necessary to ensure legal operations.

Developing a robust distribution network is vital for reaching customers, including transportation fleets and agricultural sectors seeking greener alternatives.

While competition from other renewable fuels may exist, the growing demand for sustainable energy sources provides opportunities for biodiesel entrepreneurs to thrive in this expanding market.

b.) Pros and Cons

Pros:

Environmental friendliness: Reduces carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
Stable income stream: Producing and selling renewable fuel can provide a reliable source of revenue.
Government incentives: May attract grants and incentives from the government.
Enhanced reputation: Promotes a sustainable and socially responsible image for the business.

Cons:

High upfront investment: Requires significant capital for equipment and facilities.
Market volatility: Fluctuating oil prices can impact profitability.
Expensive feedstock: Sourcing and processing feedstock like vegetable oils can be costly.
Supply chain disruptions: Subject to potential disruptions in the supply chain.
Competition and regulatory complexities: Face challenges from traditional fuel sources and complex regulations.

2. Research

Biodiesel Business Research

Researching a biodiesel business before you begin is crucial for your success. Gathering and comprehending reliable information is essential for making wise choices and gaining insights into whether this business suits you.

A great source of valuable information is from experienced individuals in the industry. They possess the knowledge you can rely on. I have composed an article with suggestions on connecting with the right people and approaching them.

I highly recommend that you allocate some time to read the article linked below. Doing so will give you a comprehensive understanding before commencing your biodiesel business.”

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Target Audience

To succeed in the biodiesel business, it’s crucial to grasp who your target market is. Identifying the people most likely to be interested in your product or service is essential for effective advertising and boosting sales.

Understanding your customer’s expectations can tailor your marketing efforts to meet their needs.

Researching to determine potential customers’ demographics, preferences, and purchasing behaviors. Doing so will give you a better chance of reaching the right audience and positively impacting your biodiesel business.

Sample List of Potential Interested People:

Environmentally conscious individuals
Car owners looking for eco-friendly fuel options
Businesses with a sustainability focus
Farmers and agricultural companies
Fleet owners aiming for cleaner fuel alternatives
Government agencies promoting renewable energy
Fuel distributors seeking biodiesel options
Investors interested in green energy projects

When you understand your customers’ expectations, you can advertise and improve sales.
For more, see my article on How To Understand Your Target Market.

3. Looking at Financials:

This part will summarize financial information to give you ideas of the areas you need to focus on.

Starting Cost: To launch successfully, you must grasp the price of starting your biodiesel enterprise. Having a correct projection can make the journey from plotting to opening seamless.

If you underestimate, you might exhaust your funds, risking your business activities. Overestimating might harm your chances of securing the necessary funds as your project might appear uncertain to the financier.

Start by jotting down everything required and begin sourcing prices. As you secure pricing, unforeseen concerns might emerge, allowing you to revise your list.

Factors like your operation’s scale influence the cost, whether you employ staff or manage all tasks solo. The place you pick also impacts the cost. For instance, commencing a venture in a bustling city will not be the same as running it in a quieter town. Choosing between new or second-hand machinery also affects your startup costs.”

Income and Earnings: Remember that your income is tied to the demand for products and services. Your promotional activities will also have an effect. Another vital component is the earnings from each sale.

In conclusion, you need ample income with adequate earnings from each sale to surpass your routine outgoings and suffice for your personal costs to maintain a viable biodiesel business. Check the lists below for suggestions and to get a sense of what to anticipate. When you conduct your analysis, use these as references to input your specific figures.

Sample Lists USE THE SAME PROMPT

An illustrative example of a biodiesel business startup’s costs, monthly expenses, and revenue/profit projections.
Please note that these numbers are estimates and will based on many factors. Use these as issues to consider when looking estimating your own figures

Start-up Costs:

Land Purchase (optional, if not leasing): $250,000
Building/Construction Costs: $500,000
Biodiesel Production Equipment: $350,000
Office Equipment: $10,000
Legal & Permit Fees: $5,000
Marketing & Promotion for launch: $10,000
Insurance: $5,000
Miscellaneous/Unexpected Expenses: $70,000

Total Start-Up Costs: $1,200,000

Monthly Expenses:

Salaries and Wages (assuming 5 employees): $15,000
Utilities (Electricity, Water, etc.): $2,000
Rent (if not owning land): $5,000
Raw Materials (Used cooking oil, methanol, etc.): $10,000
Equipment Maintenance: $2,000
Insurance: $500
Marketing: $1,000
Miscellaneous: $1,500

Total Monthly Expenses: $37,000

Revenue and Profit Projection:

Assuming a price of $3.00 per gallon of biodiesel and that the business can produce and sell about 50,000 gallons per month initially:

Monthly Revenue: 50,000 gallons * $3.00/gallon = $150,000
Monthly Profit: Monthly Revenue – Monthly Expenses = $150,000 – $37,000 = $113,000

Again, these figures are estimates and should be used as a starting point for conducting detailed research. There are numerous factors, such as location, specific equipment needs, market price of biodiesel, and other costs, that could significantly affect these numbers.

4. Choosing The Right Business Location

Selecting the right place to run your biodiesel business can make all the difference in its success or failure.

Picking a location where there is no need or desire for your biodiesel product will fail even before you start your business.

If you establish your business in an area saturated with biodiesel competitors, it will be challenging to make sales. Ideally, you want a location with demand and reasonable competition.

Another crucial aspect to consider is affordability.

Operating in a densely populated area offers greater visibility, but you must weigh whether the increased exposure is worth the monthly expenses.

On the other hand, you may discover an area with low operating costs, but will there be enough demand to sustain your business?

With a biodiesel business, you must look at zoning and speak with local authorities to identify a suitable location.

Choosing the right location plays a vital role in achieving success. Conduct thorough research to ensure you are making the correct decision.

For more about business locations, see Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

5. Choose a Business Name

When picking a name for your biodiesel business, aim for something catchy and fitting. You need a name that people can easily say and remember.
The name you decide on for your company will likely stay the same, so take the time to choose one that suits your business and that you’ll be happy with now and in the future.

Moreover, having a matching domain name for your online presence is important.

You should also ensure that another company isn’t using your chosen name.

Here are some ideas for biodiesel business names:

GreenFuel Solutions
BioPower Energy
EcoBlend Fuels
RenewableFuels Direct
Clean Energy Biofuels
EarthFuel Technologies
GreenWave BioEnergy
Sustainable Diesel Solutions
PureGreen Fuels
EcoDrive Biofuels
RenewPower BioEnergy
Earthwise Fuels
CleanTech Biofuels
EverGreen Energy
BioMotive Solutions
EcoMotion Fuels
RenewableDrive Biofuels
GreenLife Energy
EcoRevive Fuels
EarthSource BioEnergy
Remember, the purpose of this list is to inspire your creativity and help you come up with an original name that is not already in use by another business and is available for registration.

For this important step, see How to Choose a Business Name.

6. Register Your Company

Registering your biodiesel business: Why it matters

Registering your biodiesel business is of utmost importance for several reasons. First, it ensures that your business operates within the legal framework and complies with regulations set by local, state, and federal authorities. By registering, you establish your business as a legitimate entity, gaining credibility and trust in the eyes of potential customers and investors.

Second, registering your biodiesel business allows you to access various government incentives and grants specifically designed to support the growth of renewable energy industries. These incentives can provide financial assistance, tax breaks, and other benefits that can significantly impact your business’s bottom line.

Furthermore, registration enables you to participate in industry associations, networks, and programs, providing valuable opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and staying updated on the latest industry developments.

Considerations for registering a biodiesel business

Before registering your biodiesel business, there are a few key considerations to remember.

1. You need to determine the appropriate legal structure for your business, such as a partnership, limited liability company (LLC), corporation, etc. Each structure has different legal and financial implications, so choosing the one that aligns with your goals and circumstances is essential.

Additionally, you must identify the specific permits, licenses, and certifications required to operate a biodiesel business in your area. These may vary depending on your location and the scale of your operations. Researching and understanding the regulatory requirements is crucial to ensure compliance from the start.

Lastly, consider consulting with an attorney or business advisor specializing in renewable energy or small business law. They can guide the registration process, help you navigate legal complexities, and ensure you meet all the necessary obligations.

A List of permits and licenses to consider for a biodiesel business:

Business license: Obtained from the local government to operate legally.
Environmental permits: Required to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, including air and water quality standards.
Fuel registration: Registration with relevant authorities to produce and sell biodiesel as a fuel.
Hazardous waste permits: Necessary if you generate, handle, or store hazardous materials during the biodiesel production process.
Transportation permits: Required for the transportation and delivery of biodiesel.
Occupational safety permits: Ensures compliance with workplace safety regulations and protects employees.
Zoning permits: Verify that your business location is zoned appropriately for biodiesel production activities.
State and federal tax registrations: Registering with tax authorities to meet tax obligations.
Professional certifications: Depending on your specific role and activities, certifications such as Certified Biodiesel Producer or Sustainable Fuel Specialist may be beneficial or required.

Note: The above list is a general overview, and the permits and licenses needed can vary based on the specific location and nature of the biodiesel business. It is advisable to consult with local authorities and regulatory agencies for precise requirements.

See, How to Register your Business for more.

7. Create Your Corporate ID

In a biodiesel business, your corporate identity refers to the visual representation of your company. It plays a crucial role because it’s the first thing people notice about your business, and you want to positively impact it from the start.

Your corporate identity includes your logo, website, stationery, business signage, promotional materials, and more. Maintaining a consistent and professional design that will impress.

See A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages for more.

8. Writing a Business Plan

A business plan is a crucial paper for those in the biodiesel industry. It’s employed for procuring finances or luring investors. This paper also serves as a guide to keep you focused during the initiation stage and once your biodiesel business is fully functional.

Crafting such a blueprint demands time and energy because you’re painting a picture of your biodiesel firm, and articulating the specifics requires careful thought and time. Ultimately, all the hard work will pay off since you’ll understand your direction and possess a strategy to reach your goal.

A simplified business plan outline for a biodiesel business.
Remember, an actual business plan will be more detailed and may include additional sections as needed.

1. Executive Summary

GreenFuel Energy Inc. seeks to provide an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fuels by producing and distributing high-quality biodiesel.

2. Company Description

GreenFuel Energy Inc. is a startup in the biodiesel production industry. We plan to utilize organic waste from agricultural industries to produce biodiesel, reducing environmental impact and promoting renewable energy.

3. Market Analysis

There’s a growing demand for renewable fuels due to increased environmental awareness and governmental regulations. The biodiesel market is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. Our main competitors are traditional petroleum companies and other biodiesel producers.

4. Organization and Management

Our team comprises professionals in the energy sector, biochemists, and business strategists. We plan to hire more personnel as the business grows.

5. Services or Product Line

We produce biodiesel from organic waste, providing a renewable, cleaner-burning alternative to conventional diesel. Our product will be sold to fuel distributors and directly to large fleet owners.

6. Marketing and Sales

Our marketing strategy will focus on the environmental benefits of our biodiesel and its compatibility with existing diesel engines. We will promote our product online, at industry conferences, and through partnerships with environmentally conscious organizations.

7. Funding Request

We seek $2 million in funding to set up our production facility, secure raw materials, and launch our marketing campaign.

8. Financial Projections

We expect to reach break-even in our third year of operation. After that, we forecast steady growth as demand for biodiesel increases.

9. Exit Strategy

Once established in the market, we plan to sell the business to a larger energy company or go public through an Initial Public Offering (IPO).

10. Appendix

Includes any additional supportive documents.

This is a very general plan. Suppose you’re writing a business plan for a real biodiesel business. In that case, you’d want to include more specific details about your business, like your exact pricing model, specific market analysis based on your location, and more detailed financial projections. Reviewing your business plan with a business advisor or attorney is also good.

For information on creating your business plan, see, How to Write a Business Plan.

9. Set up Your Banking

Setting up your banking for your biodiesel business offers several benefits.

First, it allows for easier tracking of expenses and provides proof in case of a tax audit, ensuring compliance and transparency.

Second, establishing a professional relationship with your banker is advantageous. As your business expands, you may require funding, and having a rapport with your banker can be beneficial. They can offer assistance and advice, aiding in the growth of your business and potentially speeding up loan processes.

By setting up your banking effectively, you can streamline financial operations and position your biodiesel business for success.

For more, see, How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at, What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

10. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

Getting funding for a biodiesel business involves securing the necessary funds to start and operate the business. Several funding options are available, including traditional lenders, private loans, investors, selling assets, and using collateral.

When meeting with a loan officer to discuss funding, it’s important to consider the following:

Research: Understand the lender’s requirements, interest rates, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria.
Business Plan: Prepare a comprehensive business plan that includes financial projections, market analysis, and a clear vision for the biodiesel business.
Credit History: Ensure your personal and business credit histories are in good standing, as lenders may review these when evaluating loan applications.
Collateral: Assess if you have any valuable assets that can be used as collateral to secure the loan.
Financial Statements: Gather financial statements, such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, to demonstrate your business’s financial stability.

Sample list of documents needed to apply for a business loan for a NEW biodiesel business:

Business plan with financial projections
Personal and business tax returns
Bank statements
Balance sheets and income statements
Personal and business credit reports
Legal documents (licenses, permits, contracts)
Proof of collateral (if applicable)
References or recommendations from industry professionals

Remember, it’s crucial to consult with a financial advisor or an attorney to navigate the specific requirements and legal considerations for obtaining funding for your biodiesel business.

See, Getting a Small Business Loan for more.

11. Get The Right Business Insurance

It’s important to have insurance coverage before engaging in any activity to avoid potential risks. Don’t take chances because incidents can happen at any time.

Additionally, if you are running a business and a client gets injured while doing business with you, it is necessary to have business insurance to protect yourself. This type of coverage can be crucial in such situations.

Another form of insurance you may want to consider is professional liability insurance, which can safeguard you against lawsuits.

If you run or manage your business from your home, it’s crucial to inform your insurance agent about it. This is because operating a business from your residence can nullify your home insurance policy. Be sure to communicate this important detail to your agent to avoid any potential gaps in coverage.

To ensure you have adequate protection, working with a competent insurance broker who can guide you through the process is advisable. They can help you understand your options and ensure you have the right coverage for your needs.

Several important concerns must be considered when seeking insurance for a new biodiesel business.

Here is a list of key considerations:

Property Insurance: Protecting your physical assets, including your production facility, machinery, and equipment, is crucial. Ensure that your property insurance policy covers potential risks such as fire, theft, natural disasters, and equipment breakdown.
General Liability Insurance: This coverage is essential to protect your business from claims related to bodily injury or property damage that may occur during your operations. It helps cover legal fees, medical expenses, and potential settlements or judgments.
Pollution Liability Insurance: Given the nature of the biodiesel industry, pollution liability insurance is vital. It covers any environmental damages caused by accidents, leaks, or spills, including cleanup costs, fines, and legal expenses.
Product Liability Insurance: If your biodiesel products are sold to customers, product liability insurance is necessary to safeguard against any claims or lawsuits arising from potential defects or damages caused by your products.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance: If you have employees, workers’ compensation insurance is mandatory in most jurisdictions. It provides coverage for medical expenses and lost wages in the event of work-related injuries or illnesses.
Business Interruption Insurance: This coverage protects your business income in case of a temporary shutdown due to unforeseen events, such as equipment failure or natural disasters. It can help cover ongoing expenses and prevent financial losses.
Cyber Liability Insurance: As technology is integral to many biodiesel operations, protecting against cyber risks is crucial. Cyber liability insurance helps cover costs associated with data breaches, cyberattacks, and loss of sensitive customer information.
Professional Liability Insurance: If your business provides consulting or advisory services related to biodiesel production, professional liability insurance (also known as errors and omissions insurance) can protect you against claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in your professional duties.
Transportation Insurance: If your business involves transporting biodiesel or operating a fleet of vehicles, commercial auto insurance is necessary to cover potential accidents, damages, and liabilities.
Legal Compliance: Ensure your insurance coverage meets all legal requirements and industry regulations for the biodiesel sector. It is advisable to consult with an experienced insurance broker who understands your business’s unique risks and insurance needs.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance.

14. Create an External Support Team

In the biodiesel business, an external support team is a reliable expert group offering valuable advice and services. It’s important to note that these individuals are not your employees but rather provide their services on a per-use, contract, or hourly basis.

You don’t necessarily need to assemble this team before starting your biodiesel business since it takes time to cultivate professional relationships and find trustworthy individuals. However, it’s a continuous effort that you should prioritize.

A strong team in place can be immensely beneficial when you require assistance. Your support group might consist of an accountant, a lawyer, a financial advisor, a marketing specialist, technical advisors, and others with relevant expertise.”

For more, see, Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

15. Hiring Employees

As your business expands, you might struggle to meet the increasing demand and manage maintenance tasks yourself. In such cases, bringing in new team members who are well-suited for the job could be beneficial. Hiring the right people can significantly enhance productivity and contribute to the growth of your biodiesel business.

Job Considerations for a Biodiesel Business

Biodiesel Production Operator: Responsible for operating and maintaining the biodiesel production equipment, including monitoring the production process, ensuring quality control, and troubleshooting any issues that arise.
Feedstock Procurement Specialist: In charge of sourcing and procuring the raw materials needed for biodiesel production, such as vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oil.
Quality Control Technician: Conducts regular tests and analysis of biodiesel samples to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Plant Manager: Oversees the overall operations of the biodiesel facility, including production planning, resource management, budgeting, and coordinating with other departments.
Maintenance Technician: Performs regular maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of the biodiesel production equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
Logistics Coordinator: Manages the transportation and distribution of biodiesel products, including coordinating shipments, ensuring timely delivery, and managing inventory.
Sales and Marketing Representative: Develops and implements sales strategies, identifies potential customers, and promotes biodiesel products to achieve sales targets.
Environmental Compliance Officer: Ensures the business operates in accordance with environmental regulations, monitors emissions, manages waste disposal, and implements sustainability practices.
Administrative Assistant: Provides general administrative support, such as managing paperwork, scheduling appointments, handling correspondence, and maintaining records.
Research and Development Specialist: Conducts research and experiments to improve biodiesel production processes, develop new products, and stay up-to-date with technological advancements in the industry.

For more, see, How and When to Hire a New Employee.

Points To Consider

Starting a biodiesel business is not an easy process. Although the concept is simple, using used cooking oil, soybean oil, or animal fats to create fuel for diesel engines. The process is highly technical.
The emissions from biodiesel are cleaner and better for the environment. Compared to regular diesel fuel. It is more expensive at the pump due to several variables.
If you plan on this type of business, you must be clear about your intentions. Are you in it for the money or considering the environment? How large will your plant be, a small refining processor or a larger refinery? Will your business compete with the larger energy companies or are you planning on a small-scale operation?
A nationwide operation will require a significant amount of funding as well as a sustainable market to sell your fuel.
With any business you are considering, there are a few issues you need to research. For example, you need to research the market. If there is no market or a weak market for Biodiesel, then it’s no use in starting this type of business.

Skill Set:

Managing a biodiesel business, especially in production, involves unique skills.

Here is a list of essential skills you might need:

Technical Skills:

Chemistry Knowledge: Biodiesel production involves a lot of chemistry, specifically organic chemistry. Understanding the chemical reactions involved in the process is key to producing high-quality fuel.
Mechanical Skills: Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting are important in any manufacturing operation, including biodiesel production.
Quality Control: The ability to carry out quality checks and ensure the end product meets industry standards is crucial.
Safety Management: Understanding of safety protocols, handling of hazardous materials, and ensuring a safe work environment.
Waste Management: Skills in managing byproducts and waste materials of the production process.

Management Skills:

Project Management: Overseeing projects, organizing resources, and ensuring that projects are completed promptly and efficiently.
Supply Chain Management: Managing the flow of goods and materials, understanding the procurement process, and maintaining relationships with suppliers.
Financial Management: Budgeting, forecasting, cost management, and understanding of financial reports to make informed decisions about the business.
Strategic Planning: Ability to set, monitor, and achieve short and long-term business goals.
Human Resource Management: Hiring, training, and maintaining a skilled workforce, as well as resolving conflicts and ensuring a positive working environment.

Soft Skills:

Communication: Ability to clearly communicate with team members, suppliers, clients, and stakeholders.
Leadership: Inspiring and leading a team, making decisions, and setting a positive example.
Problem-Solving: Finding effective solutions to challenges and unexpected issues that arise.
Negotiation: Whether with suppliers, customers, or employees, negotiation skills are vital in business.
Time Management: Prioritizing tasks effectively to ensure all operations are carried out in a timely manner.
Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changes in the market, technology, and regulations.

Remember, while these skills are beneficial, not everyone will possess them. Many can be learned or developed with time, and others can be compensated for by hiring employees with the skills you lack. A successful business requires a diverse team with a variety of skills.

Equipment

A List of Equipment You May Need for a Biodiesel Business:

Biodiesel production converts organic matter, typically vegetable oils or animal fats, into diesel fuel. The following is a list of equipment that you would likely need:

Feedstock: This isn’t equipment per se, but you’ll need a steady supply of vegetable oil, animal fat, or other suitable feedstock.

Feedstock Storage Tanks: These tanks will store the raw materials before processing.

Pre-Treatment System: A system to remove water and impurities from the feedstock, such as a centrifuge, filter, or drying unit.

Transesterification Unit: This is where the biodiesel is actually produced. It typically consists of a reactor where the feedstock is mixed with alcohol and a catalyst.

Alcohol Recovery System: This recovers unreacted alcohol from the biodiesel and glycerin to be reused.

Biodiesel Wash and Dry System: A system to wash the biodiesel to remove any remaining impurities and then dry it.

Glycerin Treatment System: After the biodiesel is produced, you’re left with glycerin as a byproduct. This system treats the glycerin, which can be sold for further profit.

Storage Tanks for Biodiesel and Glycerin: Separate tanks to store the finished biodiesel and glycerin.

Methanol Recovery System: A system to recover and reuse methanol, a component used in the production process.

Laboratory Equipment: You’ll need equipment to test the quality of your biodiesel and ensure it meets relevant standards. This could include a spectrophotometer, titration equipment, a distillation apparatus, etc.

Pumps, Piping, and Valves: These are used to move materials between different parts of your production system.

Heat Exchangers: Used to control the temperature in various parts of the production process.

Safety Equipment: This includes items like fire extinguishers, first aid kits, protective clothing, safety goggles, and so on.

Loading and Unloading Equipment: For moving feedstock and finished product, you may need items like a forklift, pallet jack, or loading dock.

Waste Handling Equipment: Depending on your production process and local regulations, you may need equipment to handle and dispose of waste.

Control System: A computer system to control and monitor the production process.

Please note that this is a general list, and the specific requirements will vary depending on the scale of the operation, the type of feedstock you’re using, and local regulations.
You should consult with an expert or a supplier of biodiesel equipment to get a more accurate list based on your specific needs.