Detroit-based
NextEnergy, the state's alternative energy incubator, has made it their mission to establish more biofuel pumps in the Detroit area. Convinced by $111,000 worth of biofuel grant incentives, 12 local gas stations have each agreed to install biofuel pumps on behalf of the State of Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Growth.
How were the 12 stations selected? Those that applied to NextEnergy for funding were ranked according to their proximity to highways and fleets that already utilize biofuels. Eight of the grants were for E85 pumps and four were for E20 (fuel that is 20% ethanol), says NextEnergy's Kelly Jezierski. Four of the grants were dispersed by partner organization Ann Arbor's
Clean Energy Coalition.
Who got how much was determined by a station's rankings --which included their commitment to ongoing promotional activities.
Last weekend, one of these stations, a Southfield Sunoco (awarded a grant of $3,675), held just such a promotional event pricing a gallon of E85 biofuel (fuel that is 85% ethanol) at $2.49 per gallon. How did it go? 12,000 gallons were sold during the promotion, whereas the station's pump averaged 10,000 gallons per month during the preceding four months. The question remains, however, are Michigan drivers sold on the new fuel or just in search of a good deal?
Jezierski explains that E85 can be used in any flex fuel vehicle. Not sure if your car measures up or where you can find a pump? Check e85.com. There are 115 pumps in Michigan, 31 of which are within 100 miles of Detroit.
NextEnergy plans to continue to partner with the government as well as fleet managers and local gas station owners to diversify fuel usage.
Source: Kelly Jezierski, NextEnergy
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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