Grand Haven, Monday, April 4, 2011 -- Thanks to an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant, The Grand Haven Board of Light & Power (BLP) has been able to contract with Muskegon Based Alternative Energy Solutions (AES) to produce and test an Organic Diesel created from local sources such as restaurant waste oils, soy, canola and algae. The final run on the BLP’s #5 engine, a 1954 10-Cylindar Nordberg, using this vegetable derived fuel resulted in a stack opacity of less than 5% and an engine output of 3 megawatts. If that engine were to run 40 hours per week it would provide enough energy for 500 homes each month.
During the course of the Grant period, (April 2010 to March 2011), AES delivered over 8,000 gallons of fuel to the diesel plant. BLP Diesel Plant operators Pete Silkworth and Dave Newman ran 117,000 kWh of power during that period.
“Preliminary results show good compatibility with the Nordberg engine injectors and fuel system. Engine performance also ran smoother with less opacity emissions than conventional fuel oils,” stated Silkworth, Lead Diesel Operating Mechanic.
A soybean derived fuel was used for the final run providing an almost invisible opacity level of less than 5%. Normal operations prior to this Project presented a visible plume at the 20% regulated allowance level.
The $66,680 Grant also included a portion for labor, equipment, reporting and marketing expenses. The final tally of these State and Federal funds amounted to approximately $50,000 to develop this enterprise.
“This project, made possible through the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 and awarded by the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth, has proven its value,” stated Dan Bush, Director of Production. “AES is now competing in the diesel fuel market as the cost of retail diesel fuel climbs to the $3.50-$4.00 per gallon price. The BLP and its employees are pleased to participate in this project and in helping America reduce its de-pendency on foreign oil,” added Bush.
Annette Allen, General Manager stated, “The BLP continues to seek opportunities to help grow this successful, community minded energy supply while balancing power pricing and demonstrating environmental stewardship.”
Created in 1896, the Grand Haven Board of Light and Power provides electricity to ap-proximately 13,500 customers in Grand Haven and the surrounding area. Grand Haven Board of Light and Power. Community-owned. Locally-controlled. Not-for-profit. Environmentally responsible.