Bahamas Waste Biodiesel Hit by 'Poor' Oil Quality

by Alison Lowe (The Tribune) Bahamas Waste's biodiesel production has been delayed after the company discovered used cooking oil donated for conversion was "in far worse shape" than expected.

Having expected the first batch of biodiesel to be produced at its $750,000 Gladstone Road plant in late September, managing director Francisco DeCardenas yesterday said the company is now hopeful the plant will begin biodiesel production in short order.

..."The major issue was the quality of the waste oil. It was in far worse shape than anyone ever anticipated - the free fatty acid (FFA) level content was a lot higher than they originally ever thought, so we had to put in a whole new pre-wash system to lower the free fatty acid level."

..."We had to get some extra tanks, piping and pumps. It wasn't that big of a deal and it makes our facility more versatile.

"We also bought a tank to try to process used motor oil, which we will use to fuel our boiler and generator," added Mr De Cardenas.

Once fuel is produced, Mr De Cardenas said Bahamas Waste will begin testing for the best blend of biodiesel and regular fuel to use in the 50-truck fleet, which collects waste from throughout New Providence for disposal - its primary business service. We are thinking we will try three different blends - 100 per cent biodiesel, 50 per cent, and 25 per cent. READ MORE