How to Start a Biodiesel Business: A Practical Step-by-Step Guide
Decide If This Business Fits You
Biodiesel is a regulated fuel. You will handle flammable liquids, follow safety rules, and work with federal and state programs. Make sure you are comfortable with permits, inspections, and documentation.
Next, think about the workday. You may collect used cooking oil, run a small plant, or manage deliveries to fleets or retailers. This is hands-on and detail-driven. If that matches your strengths, you’re on the right path.
For a fuller gut-check, see the big-picture questions in Points to consider before starting a business and compare what daily work looks like using Inside look at the business you’re considering.
- Confirm you’re comfortable with compliance, inspections, and paperwork.
- Decide whether you want to produce B100, blend, distribute, or sell at retail.
- Note the safety, labeling, and tax rules you must follow before launch.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — City/County business licensing portal: search “business license” and “industrial zoning.”
Learn How the Biodiesel Market Works
Biodiesel is sold as pure fuel (B100) or in blends such as B5 or B20. Many customers use blends in standard diesel engines. The market includes fleets, heating-oil dealers, fuel jobbers, and retailers.
Supply depends on local feedstocks like used cooking oil, tallow, or soybean oil. Map who produces waste oils near you, who collects them, and which buyers in your area run diesel vehicles or heat with oil.
Use Understand supply and demand to compare likely feedstock volumes and buyer demand in your region.
- List 10 potential feedstock sources and 10 potential buyers.
- Record common blends buyers already use (B5, B20).
- Note seasonal issues such as cold-flow limits and storage needs.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State Department of Agriculture or environmental agency site: search “used cooking oil hauler” or “renderer list.”
Choose Your Role and Scope
Decide which activities you will do on day one. Common options are producing B100, blending, distributing in bulk, and retail dispensing. Each role adds specific registrations and equipment.
Producing B100 brings quality control and environmental permitting. Blending and retail add labeling and metering rules. Distribution adds hazmat and motor carrier duties for fuel transport.
Start lean. Pick the smallest model that meets demand in your area, then expand as you prove volume.
- Circle one launch model: producer, blender, distributor, retail (or a combo).
- List the registrations tied to that model so you know what to apply for.
- Identify which activities can wait until phase two.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State Department of Revenue portal: search “motor fuel supplier/distributor license” and “bond requirements.”
Write a Simple Plan You Can Use
Keep the plan short and practical. Show who you will sell to, what you will sell (B100, B20, etc.), and how you will source and move product. Include a timeline for all registrations and permits.
Add a basic cash plan. List one-time setup costs and monthly costs. Show how many gallons per month you must sell to cover expenses. This helps you talk to lenders and keep yourself on track.
Use Write a business plan and Set your pricing for structure and unit economics.
- Define target customers and their average monthly gallons.
- Set initial products (B5, B20, B100) and delivery method.
- Build a 90-day permit/registration timeline.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State environmental agency: search “air construction permit” and “industrial stormwater” to estimate timing.
Build Your Advisory Bench
You will deal with safety rules, taxes, fuel standards, and contracts. A small advisory group saves time and reduces risk. Aim for a CPA familiar with fuel excise tax, an attorney for entity and contracts, and a safety/environmental consultant for plans and permits.
Meet early, share your planned scope, and confirm which filings apply to your model. Ask each advisor for a list of documents you must prepare before they start work.
For structure, see Build a team of business advisors.
- Confirm your entity choice and tax treatment with your CPA and attorney.
- Map each regulatory step to an owner and a deadline.
- Schedule pre-inspection walk-throughs before equipment arrives.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State Bar and CPA society directories: search “business attorney” and “fuel excise CPA.”
Form Your Legal Entity and Name
Register your company with your state’s business division and appoint a registered agent. Keep your formation documents and operating agreement or bylaws in a compliance folder for future inspections and accounts.
If you will use a different trade name than your legal name, file a DBA/assumed name where required. Check name conflicts before you order signs or branding.
When you plan trademarks, search conflicts and consider filing a federal application after you settle on a mark.
- File the entity with the Secretary of State.
- File the DBA/assumed name if needed.
- Run identical and similar trademark searches before branding.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — Secretary of State portal: search “business registration” and “assumed name/DBA.”
Get Your EIN
Apply for a federal employer identification number before opening bank accounts or fuel tax accounts. The number is free and issued by the IRS. Keep the confirmation notice with your formation records.
If a bank asks for proof, your IRS EIN confirmation letter and state registration usually suffice. Make digital backups.
Keep the EIN handy; you will need it for federal fuel tax filings and many state applications.
- Apply online for an EIN and save the confirmation letter.
- Open a business bank account under the entity’s legal name.
- Create a secure folder for all tax IDs and registrations.
No local variation applies for federal EIN issuance.
Register as a Fuel/Fuel Additive Producer (If You Will Sell as Fuel)
If you will sell biodiesel as a motor fuel or fuel additive, register it with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that tracks fuels and additives. This is required before commercial sale.
Registration is done through the federal online system. You will identify your company and your facility and list your products. Keep your log-in and acceptance records.
You cannot skip this step if you market fuel or additive; complete it before you blend, label, or sell.
- Create federal online accounts and complete fuel/additive registration.
- Register the company, facility, and biodiesel product.
- Save acceptance notices in your compliance folder.
No local variation applies for federal fuel/additive registration; state programs are separate.
If You Will Generate RINs: Register for the Renewable Fuel Standard
If you plan to generate Renewable Identification Numbers for biodiesel, enroll in the electronic transaction system. This includes a company registration and access to the electronic transaction system used to create and transfer RINs.
Only registered renewable fuel producers can generate RINs. If you only buy blended product for resale and do not produce renewable fuel, this step may not apply.
Set this up before production so there is no delay when you begin operations.
- Complete renewable fuel producer registration.
- Set up access to the electronic RIN transaction system.
- Test log-ins and confirm facility information matches your filings.
No local variation applies for federal renewable fuel registration; state tax programs are separate.
Understand Federal Fuel Taxes and Register if Needed
Review the federal fuel excise tax rules that apply to biodiesel and blends. Some activities require a special tax registration. Many businesses also file a quarterly federal excise tax form.
Your CPA can help you determine which activities trigger taxes or credits, such as blending. Keep a calendar for due dates and support files for each return.
Collect the instructions and keep them in your tax folder so you do not rely on memory during the first filing.
- Review federal fuel excise rules and quarterly filing requirements.
- Apply for federal fuel tax registration if your activities require it.
- Set up your bookkeeping to track taxable gallons and claims.
No local variation applies for federal fuel excise rules; state filings are separate.
Plan Transport and Hazmat Compliance
If you ship or receive fuel or methanol, hazmat rules apply. Employees who prepare shipments, load, unload, or sign shipping papers must complete hazmat training. Keep training records current.
If you operate fuel trucks, you may need a federal motor carrier number and, in some states, intrastate registration. If you ship placarded quantities, annual hazmat registration may apply.
Check driver licensing, vehicle inspections, and recordkeeping before your first load. Build these into your startup timeline so you can schedule training and registrations.
- Provide hazmat training and keep certificates on file.
- Obtain a motor carrier number if required for your operations.
- Register for annual hazmat registration if you ship placarded quantities.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State DOT/DMV site: search “intrastate USDOT number” and “hazmat registration.”
Plan Environmental Permits and Plans
If your site stores oil (including biodiesel, diesel, or feedstock oils), you may need an oil spill plan. If your facility discharges industrial stormwater, you may need coverage under an industrial stormwater program. Some production setups also need air permits.
If you generate hazardous waste during production or cleanup, obtain an EPA identification number before you begin. Keep waste storage and records in line with generator rules.
Walk your site with your consultant. Confirm tank locations, secondary containment, and discharge paths before you pour concrete or set tanks.
- Determine if an oil spill plan applies; build secondary containment into your design.
- Check industrial stormwater coverage and air permit thresholds.
- Obtain an EPA hazardous waste ID if you will generate hazardous waste.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State environmental agency: search “SPCC,” “industrial stormwater,” “air construction permit,” and “EPA ID (Form 8700-12/myRCRAid).”
Register for State Fuel Licensing and Tax Accounts
Most states license fuel suppliers, distributors, importers, or blenders. Many require bonding. Register before you move taxable fuel. Keep account numbers with your federal files.
You may also need a general sales and use tax account for equipment or retail items. Fuel taxes are usually handled on separate returns from sales tax.
Call your state revenue office if you are unsure which fuel role fits your business model. The correct role affects which forms and reports you file.
- Apply for the state motor fuel license that matches your role.
- Post any required bond and keep proof in your records.
- Open a sales and use tax account if needed.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State Department of Revenue portal: search “motor fuel supplier/distributor license” and “sales tax registration.”
Prepare for Weights & Measures and Fuel Labeling
If you sell at retail, your dispensers and meters must be approved, sealed, and inspected by the state. You must also post fuel rating labels that show the biodiesel percentage in the blend.
Plan pump space for required labels and keep product records that match the posted blend. If you change blends seasonally, update labels and records together.
Ask the state to explain its inspection schedule and how to request first-use sealing for new equipment.
- Confirm meter approvals and request inspection/sealing.
- Set up correct fuel rating labels for each blend you will sell.
- Prepare blend records to match what you post at the pump.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State Department of Agriculture or Weights & Measures: search “commercial fuel dispenser approval” and “biodiesel labeling.”
Secure Local Zoning, Building, and Fire Approvals
Before you sign a lease or start construction, check zoning for your use. Fuel production and storage often require industrial zoning and special reviews. Do this first to avoid costly changes.
You will likely need building permits for tanks, electrical, and secondary containment. The fire department may issue permits for flammable and combustible liquids and review your site plan.
Visit each office and confirm submittal requirements. Bring a site sketch and a simple process description so staff can direct you to the right permits.
- Get written zoning confirmation for your planned use.
- Apply for building permits tied to tank and site work.
- Obtain fire department approvals for flammable liquids.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — City/County planning, building, and fire marshal portals: search “zoning verification,” “tank permit,” and “flammable/combustible liquids permit.”
Set Up Insurance
Fuel businesses face property, spill, and transport risks. Work with a broker who understands fuel operations. Ask about general liability, property, pollution, auto, and workers’ compensation if you will hire staff.
Some licenses or landlords will require proof before you take possession or receive product. Get binders timed to your first delivery and first day of production testing.
Use the overview in Business insurance to prepare questions for your broker.
- Define coverage limits based on tank sizes and transport plans.
- Collect certificates naming landlords or regulators if required.
- Set policy start dates to align with first deliveries.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State Department of Insurance site: search “commercial liability” and “pollution liability.”
Create Your Brand Assets
Choose a clear name and mark that avoids conflicts. Keep the style consistent across your signs, vehicles, website, and forms. Simple, readable labels help customers choose blends and reduce questions at the pump.
Build a basic website with your service area, products, and delivery policies. Order business cards for meetings with landlords, inspectors, and suppliers. Plan your sign package after zoning confirms size and placement rules.
Use Build a business website, Business cards, Business signage, and Corporate identity package to keep it simple and consistent.
- Register a domain and set up a basic website.
- Order cards and vehicle/pump decals that match your brand.
- Plan permanent signage after local approval.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — City sign permitting portal: search “sign permit” and “sign size/placement.”
Prepare Your Site and Equipment
Lay out tanks and piping with safety in mind. Follow the flammable and combustible liquids standard for clearances, electrical, and ventilation. Build secondary containment sized for your largest tank as required by your plan.
Set up a quality program for B100 before you blend. Keep product and blend records that match your posted fuel rating. Store methanol and other chemicals according to safety rules and your fire permit.
Walk the site with your consultant and the fire marshal before your first delivery. Fix issues while access is easy.
- Install tanks, containment, and electrical to code.
- Prepare a simple quality checklist for B100 and blends.
- Label and secure all chemical storage areas.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — Local fire marshal and building department: search “hazardous materials storage” and “electrical for classified locations.”
Line Up Suppliers and Buyers
Confirm feedstock supply in writing. If you will collect used cooking oil, define schedules, contamination standards, and containers. If you will buy refined feedstocks, confirm delivery terms and volumes.
For buyers, start with fleets, heating-oil dealers, and fuel jobbers in your delivery radius. Set simple terms, delivery windows, and minimum orders. Match blend labels and invoices to what you deliver.
Create a clean onboarding packet so a new buyer can order without back-and-forth.
- Sign feedstock or supply agreements that cover quality and volume.
- Collect buyer tax IDs and account details before first orders.
- Create product spec sheets and sample labels for each blend.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State Weights & Measures: search “fuel quality,” “pump labeling,” and “meter sealing” for buyer requirements.
Complete Final Legal and Tax Setup
Before launch, make sure every required federal and state registration is active. Keep acceptance emails and account numbers together. If you will file quarterly returns, set reminders for due dates and report owners.
Check that your fuel roles match your registrations. For example, if you changed from distributor to supplier, update your accounts and bonding if required.
Do a paper review with your CPA so your first returns are accurate.
- Confirm fuel/additive registration status for your products.
- Confirm renewable fuel and RIN system access if you will generate RINs.
- Confirm federal and state tax account numbers and e-file access.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State Department of Revenue portal: search “motor fuel e-file” and “bonding requirements.”
Train, Label, and Stage for Inspection
Provide hazmat training for affected employees and keep certificates on file. Prepare shipping papers and emergency numbers for transport. Keep safety data sheets on site.
Set pump labels before inspections. If you sell at retail, schedule a first-use meter seal with your state weights and measures office. Keep your quality and blend records ready to show.
Invite your fire inspector for a pre-opening walk-through to prevent delays on opening day.
- Complete hazmat training and document it.
- Set pump labels and request meter sealing if retail applies.
- Stage SDS, emergency plans, and inspection folders on site.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State Weights & Measures and local fire marshal portals: search “dispenser sealing” and “pre-opening inspection.”
Brand, Website, and First Customers
Make it easy for buyers to find you and understand your blends. Your site should include service areas, minimum orders, safety notes for storage, and clear contact details. Keep branding simple and consistent.
Create a basic marketing plan with three concrete steps. For example, call local fleets, meet heating-oil dealers, and visit jobbers. Bring sample labels and product spec sheets.
Use Create a marketing plan for a light, practical approach.
- Publish a one-page site with products and service areas.
- Prepare a buyer packet with specs and labels.
- Book three first-week sales meetings and follow-ups.
No local variation applies; use local business directories to list your services.
Final Pre-Launch Check
Do one last pass through your compliance folder. Confirm fuel product registration, tax accounts, and any required permits and plans. Make sure brand elements match what you sell and label.
Run a dry delivery with water-filled totes or empty containers to test routing, paperwork, and communications. Fix small gaps now so your first sale is smooth.
Use the overview at New business checklist and the step map at Business startup steps to confirm you did not miss a step.
- Match records to labels and posted blends.
- Confirm permit and inspection sign-offs.
- Create a 30-day calendar for returns and reports.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State and local portals listed above: search each item’s status page (e.g., “motor fuel account status,” “permit status”).
If You Plan to Hire Soon
Map the first roles you will add, such as driver or technician. Confirm licensing and training needs for each role before you hire. Set clear duties for compliance tasks so they do not get missed.
Build a simple onboarding checklist. Include safety training, hazmat training where applicable, and how to keep inspection files current.
For timing and role planning, see How and when to hire so you add people when the work supports it.
- Define the first role and required credentials.
- Create a two-day onboarding and training plan.
- Assign who maintains compliance records.
Varies by jurisdiction: How to verify locally — State labor department portal: search “new hire reporting” and “safety training requirements.”
Avoid Common Startup Mistakes
Most early problems come from missing a registration, guessing about labeling, or moving into a site before checking zoning. Use a written list and keep it updated as requirements change. Ask agencies to confirm in writing when possible.
Do not scale until your basic model works. Add blending, retail, or more trucks only after you have steady supply and demand. This reduces risk and keeps cash available for seasonal changes.
Review the reminders in Startup mistakes to avoid to keep your launch clean and controlled.
- Verify zoning and permits before signing a lease.
- Finish federal registrations before ordering labels.
- Run a paper audit with your CPA before first sales.
No local variation applies to these general best practices; confirm with your local offices when in doubt.
101 Tips for Running Your Biodiesel Business
Running a biodiesel business means managing fuel quality, safety, and compliance while building steady demand. These tips focus on clear actions you can use right away.
Keep records, verify rules that vary by state, and build repeatable systems. The goal is a reliable, compliant operation that customers trust.
What to Do Before Starting
- Decide your launch model first—producer, blender, distributor, or retail—because each triggers different registrations, equipment, and inspections.
- Map your regulatory path on one page: federal fuel registration, renewable fuel program (if applicable), state fuel licensing, local fire and building permits.
- Confirm zoning for fuel storage and production before signing a lease; fuel uses often need industrial zoning and fire review.
- Walk the site with a fire official early to learn tank spacing, secondary containment, and flammable-liquid requirements.
- Budget time for permits and federal registrations; plan a timeline with float days so delays do not stall opening.
- Build a basic quality plan that shows how you will meet ASTM biodiesel specs before you ever blend or sell.
- List your first 10 feedstock sources and first 10 buyers to test real demand and logistics.
- Set cold-weather strategy now—blend targets, storage temperatures, and customer education—to avoid winter surprises.
- Plan transport compliance if you will move fuel yourself, including driver qualifications and vehicle requirements.
- Create a document index (entity, tax IDs, permits, training, quality, inspections) so nothing lives only in email.
What Successful Biodiesel Business Owners Do
- They standardize everything: sampling, blending, labeling, loading, and deliveries follow written steps every time.
- They keep acceptance emails and account numbers for all federal and state registrations in a single compliance folder.
- They track gallons by product and blend and reconcile to meter totals and invoices weekly.
- They train every hazmat employee and refresh on schedule, keeping certificates ready for audits.
- They test B100 quality routinely and keep retain samples to resolve disputes quickly.
- They label pumps correctly and update labels the same day blends change.
- They maintain strong supplier and buyer agreements that spell out product specs, testing, and dispute steps.
- They review incident reports monthly and fix root causes, not just symptoms.
- They watch seasonal demand and adjust inventory and blends ahead of weather shifts.
- They subscribe to regulatory updates and change procedures when rules change.
Running the Business (Operations, Staffing, SOPs)
- Write SOPs for receiving, storage, production, blending, loading, and delivery; keep them near the work area.
- Ground and bond containers during transfers of flammable liquids to control static discharge.
- Install and test eyewash and emergency showers where corrosives or methanol are handled.
- Maintain secondary containment sized for the largest tank as required by your spill plan.
- Mark tanks and lines clearly (product and direction of flow) to prevent cross-contamination.
- Use a calibrated thermometer and hydrometer or density meter to confirm blend ratios.
- Keep methanol storage locked, vented, and posted with hazard signs; control access by trained staff only.
- Establish a sampling protocol: clean containers, chain of custody, and retain samples for a defined period.
- Audit meters and scales on the schedule your state requires; keep calibration tags and certificates.
- Document preventive maintenance for pumps, filters, and heaters; schedule filter changes before pressure spikes.
- Stage Safety Data Sheets where chemicals are stored and used; train staff on first aid and spill response.
- Use a load checklist: product code, blend percent, temperature, meter start/stop, seal numbers, and driver sign-off.
- Verify driver credentials, vehicle inspections, and placards before dispatch; fix gaps before wheels roll.
- Keep a binder in each truck with shipping papers, emergency numbers, and spill instructions.
- Set gatekeeping rules for receiving feedstock: reject loads with water or contaminants above your limits.
- Store glycerin coproduct safely and arrange timely offtake to avoid tank constraints.
- Lock out and tag out equipment before maintenance; test zero energy state.
- Run a monthly mock spill drill and document lessons learned and corrective actions.
What to Know About the Industry (Rules, Seasons, Supply, Risks)
- Register fuels and fuel additives with the federal program before commercial sale; this is mandatory for motor fuels.
- If you will generate RINs, complete renewable fuel registration and get access to the electronic transaction system before producing gallons.
- Understand federal fuel excise tax rules and, if required, register for special fuel tax activities and file quarterly returns.
- State motor fuel licenses and bonds vary; apply under the correct role (supplier, distributor, blender) to avoid penalties.
- Retail dispensers must post fuel rating labels for biodiesel blends; labels must match actual blend percent.
- Industrial stormwater coverage may apply; prepare a site map, best practices, and inspection records as required.
- Air permits may be needed for production or tank emissions; verify thresholds with your state air office.
- Spill prevention rules apply above certain oil storage thresholds; keep your plan current and train staff.
- Hazardous waste rules may apply to certain residues; obtain an EPA ID if you generate regulated waste.
- Hazmat employee training is required for anyone who affects hazardous materials transport; keep records current.
- Many carriers need a motor carrier number; intrastate rules vary by state, so verify with your state DOT/DMV.
- Cold weather affects biodiesel handling; plan blends and storage temperatures by season to avoid gelling.
- Feedstock prices can move quickly; diversify sources and use simple index clauses in contracts when possible.
- Meter sealing and inspection schedules differ by state; schedule first-use sealing before retail sales.
Marketing (Local, Digital, Offers, Community)
- Define three buyer profiles—fleets, heating-oil dealers, and jobbers—and write one-page offers for each.
- Publish a simple website with products, service area, minimum orders, and safety notes for storage.
- Create a pilot program offer for B20 with filter monitoring and a clear support plan.
- Share a seasonal blend calendar so customers know when you shift blends and why.
- Use case studies that show gallons delivered, uptime, and any cold-weather results—stay factual and verifiable.
- Join a local clean transportation network to meet fleets that already value alternative fuels.
- Offer scheduled deliveries to reduce buyer tank run-outs and earn predictable volume.
- Show your quality controls in plain language—testing, retain samples, and traceability build trust.
- Provide safety and handling guides with each first delivery to reduce support calls.
- List your business in local supplier directories used by fleets and facility managers.
Dealing with Customers (Trust, Education, Retention)
- Start new accounts with a kickoff call that covers blends, storage, filters, and seasonal adjustments.
- Document tank condition before first delivery and note water or sludge issues that could affect performance.
- Provide a one-page cold-weather checklist and confirm the buyer’s storage temperatures.
- Explain how you label blends and how invoices match labels; this prevents disputes later.
- Set clear delivery windows and communication rules for delays; reliability keeps accounts.
- Review usage with each account quarterly and propose adjustments to routes or minimums that reduce emergencies.
- Confirm who approves blend changes on the customer side so labels and invoices stay aligned.
- Keep a parts kit for first-week support at pilot sites: filters, test strips, and simple tools.
Customer Service (Policies, Guarantees, Feedback)
- Adopt a written product quality policy and include how you handle investigations and corrective actions.
- Publish a delivery accuracy policy that defines meter accuracy, seal practices, and proof of delivery.
- Use a simple complaint intake form that captures product, tank, temperature, meter data, and photos.
- Set response targets for issues (e.g., same-day triage, 48-hour findings) and meet them.
- Offer a first-delivery follow-up check to catch early problems with filters or labeling.
- Survey new customers after 30 days and again after winter to learn what to improve.
- Close the loop by sharing fixes from complaints with your operations team and the customer.
Sustainability (Waste, Sourcing, Long-Term)
- Collect used cooking oil with sealed containers and scheduled routes to prevent spills and theft.
- Keep a spill kit on each truck and at loading points; restock after every use.
- Minimize waste by optimizing reaction conditions and recovering methanol where feasible.
- Arrange reliable offtake for glycerin and document specifications and contaminants allowed.
- Use energy-efficient heaters and insulate tanks and lines to cut fuel use and emissions.
- Track fuel economy results with pilot fleets; share verified data, not estimates.
- Train staff to prevent overfills and drips at customer sites; small changes reduce losses and complaints.
- Store chemicals in secondary containment and check for rainwater intrusion after storms.
Staying Informed (Trends, Sources, Cadence)
- Subscribe to federal fuel program updates and review changes with your advisor before they take effect.
- Follow fuel excise tax bulletins and calendar quarterly filings to avoid penalties.
- Watch weekly diesel price updates to guide blend economics and customer offers.
- Review technical resources on biodiesel handling and quality at least twice a year and update SOPs.
- Track changes to biodiesel specifications so your testing plan stays current.
- Join webinars or workshops from recognized energy and safety organizations to refresh staff knowledge.
Adapting to Change (Seasonality, Shocks, Competition, Tech)
- Build a cold-weather playbook that sets blend targets by temperature bands and storage conditions.
- Draft a supply disruption plan for feedstock or methanol shortages, including alternate suppliers and allocation rules.
- Create a rapid-communication list for customers during storms or pipeline outages; send concise status updates.
- Pilot alternative feedstocks in small batches and document any impacts on quality or yields.
- Evaluate new metering or automation tools yearly and adopt only when they improve accuracy or safety.
- Benchmark your pricing and service against regional competitors twice a year and adjust offers strategically.
What Not to Do
- Do not sell fuel before completing all required fuel and additive registrations; penalties can be severe.
- Do not guess blend percentages or labels; always align posted labels, invoices, and product records.
- Do not ignore spill prevention, stormwater, or waste rules; inspections rely on documentation you must have.
- Do not promise tax credits or RIN outcomes to customers; those programs have eligibility rules and can change.
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