Energy
Fuel Cost and Emission Factor Comparison Calculator
Substituting biofuels for natural gas, and No. 6 and No. 2 residual fuel oils in existing industrial boilers can be a very cost-effective solution to rising fuel prices, and meeting strict emissions standards. This calculator will assist you in comparing the costs and emissions factors of biofuel vs. traditional fossil fuels.
This calculator will help you determine the cost of burning fat in your boiler compared to your current fuel. It will also calculate the amount of total emission for each fuel option.
NOTE: Enter amount in appropriate units for fuel (MMBtu, Gallons) and cost ($/UNIT) in the input boxes below and click the "Compare Costs" button.
Conversions
1,000,000 BTU (1 MMBtu) = 1 Decatherm
Decatherm = 1000 cubic feet
1 Cubic Foot = 7.48 gallons
1 Gallon Fat = 7.4 lbs
* Decatherms/unit is based on generally recognized relative heat content of various fuels. Your local supply may differ.
** Through the end of 2009, the U.S. government is paying a $0.50/gl tax rebate for companies utilizing animal fat in their boilers.
For more information on this tax rebate, download our Alternative Fuel Mixture Credit article (pdf).
*** The calculations for emissions from burning fat are derived from emission factors based on worst-case stack test results conducted by Valley Proteins at Gastonia, NC and Wadesboro, NC.
