Green Fuel Production: The Risks of Backyard Biodiesel

Abstract

For a variety of reasons, energy production will move from centralized facilities to distributed networks of community-scale or smaller, independent producers. If such on-site energy producers are guided by sound engineering principles and safe practices, there is nothing to fear about Distributed Generation (DG) of power, energy or fuel. However, moving the production facilities closer to residences—whenever such facilities are operated with substandard equipment by poorly trained people-could be quite dangerous. The worst case is an improvised facility operated by non-professional staff that uses toxic chemicals. Home-based biodiesel production fits this model. Thus this article documents the biodiesel production process. The chemicals of concern are described. A “what if” exercise follows to understand the various risk exposures. A Preliminary Hazard List is developed. Finally, the risks of each potential challenge are quantified and assessed to determine severity and policy implications. Recommendations include procedures for safe operation as well as facility and equipment design and installation guidelines.