Renewable Fuel Requirements Start Soon

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City Council adopted a Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) to reduce dependence on fossil fuels by requiring Portland fuel retailers to sell blends of biofuels in 2022. This policy increases low-carbon biofuel blends and will move Portland's diesel fuel mix to 99% renewable in 2030.

Beginning July 1, 2026, all diesel fuel sold in the City of Portland must contain at least 50% biofuel. Biofuels, like biodiesel and renewable diesel, are made from renewable sources such as used cooking oils, fats, and greases.

This policy includes a carbon intensity requirement to shift to fuels that are lower carbon across their entire lifecycle, so all fuels stored and sold must also meet current carbon intensity requirements.

The new blend is already available at many gas stations. For customers concerned about using biodiesel specifically, City of Portland does not allow blending with biodiesel greater than 20%. If customers want to avoid biodiesel altogether, they should look for the R99 blend. Renewable diesel is safe for diesel engines, has the same fuel economy and power as petroleum diesel, produces cleaner exhaust, and offers other benefits. Many gas stations in Portland are already selling R99 - the highest blend of biofuel, made up of 99% renewable diesel and 1% petroleum diesel.

Renewable diesel is a "drop in" fuel that is chemically and physically similar to petroleum diesel, making it compatible with all diesel engines. It meets ASTM standards for diesel fuel and drivers can switch between petroleum diesel and renewable diesel without any engine modifications. Stay tuned: FAQ with more information on biofuels from City of Portland is coming soon, and this FAQ is available from the State of Oregon.