Changing biofuel composition 'could cause problems for homeowners'

Households located away from the mains power grid could find their oil tanks need some inspection as EU legislation is expected to lead to widespread changes in biofuel composition from January 2011.

Industry regulator OFTEC warns that new rules mean up to seven per cent of gas oil used in offroad machinery may be fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) from the beginning of next year.

FAME acts as a solvent and can also absorb large amounts of water, leading to the risk of clogging filters and destroying tank seals that are not compatible with biofuels.

While it is intended to alter the biofuel composition of diesel used in machinery, OFTEC expects other supplies - including home energy gas oil - to also incorporate greater levels of FAME in the new year.

Prompt action may be wise as, after the unpredicted weather conditions of last winter, the Met Office has this year abolished long-range seasonal forecasts, leaving homeowners uncertain of whether heavy snowfall may occur in early 2011.