Sprague Energy gears up low-sulfur diesel production

April 25, 2002
Though not mandated for widespread introduction until 2006, fuel supplier Sprague Energy has ramped up production of low-sulfur diesel for several transit fleets on the East Coast. The New York county of Westchecter powering 344 transit buses with low-sulfur diesel and will receive more than three million gallons of low sulfur diesel annually from Portsmouth, NH-based Sprague. The Massachusetts Bay
Though not mandated for widespread introduction until 2006, fuel supplier Sprague Energy has ramped up production of low-sulfur diesel for several transit fleets on the East Coast.

The New York county of Westchecter powering 344 transit buses with low-sulfur diesel and will receive more than three million gallons of low sulfur diesel annually from Portsmouth, NH-based Sprague. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority plans to fuel all 400 of its buses with low sulfur diesel, based on an agreement with Sprague Energy to receive more than 7.2 million gallons of that fuel every year.

While both of those fleets are using low sulfur diesel as part of a voluntary effort to reduce vehicle emissions, the trucking industry will be required by federal mandate to use that fuel starting in 2006. The EPA has mandated that sulfur content in diesel fuel be reduced from 500 to15 ppm nationwide by 2006.

Sprague Energy said without any mechanical modifications to the transit buses using low sulfur diesel fuel, particulate matter is reduced by 23%, carbon monoxide levels are cut by 29% and total hydrocarbon emissions are slashed by 76%. When those buses are fitted with an exhaust filtration system, all three of those emissions are cut 90%.

About the Author

Sean Kilcarr | Editor in Chief

Sean reports and comments on trends affecting the many different strata of the trucking industry -- light and medium duty fleets up through over-the-road truckload, less-than-truckload, and private fleet operations Also be sure to visit Sean's blog Trucks at Work where he offers analysis on a variety of different topics inside the trucking industry.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!