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EECA leads the Government’s ‘Biofuels Consumer Awareness Group’ and is currently in the process of preparing a handbook that will soon be sent to marine and aviation organisations about the use of biofuels. Fuel companies too, are preparing communications material. Marine engine manufacturers also have a responsibility to communicate with their customers about any issues or risks relating to the use of biofuels in their marine engines.
MNZ endorses the advice from the MOT that the use of bioethanol in marine engines is not recommended. This is because marine use increases the risk of the presence of water in the fuel tank. Boaties should also consult their fuel supplier or their engine manufacturer if they have any questions about the use of bioethanol.
Meanwhile, some skippers using biodiesel (for example in commercial fishing vessels) have reported that their emissions are cleaner and service intervals are longer. However, again MNZ advises that skippers should check with their engine manufacturer or fuel supplier to ensure that biodiesel is compatible with their engine before using it.
As the use of biofuels in New Zealand is still in its infancy, it is not yet known how much of an “issue” their use may become in the maritime sector in future. But it should be noted that the Coastguard and the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand respond to dozens of incidents each year, usually at the beginning of summer, in which recreational boaties get into trouble because they have not ensured that they are carrying sufficient fuel or have not maintained their motors properly. MNZ stresses that all vessel skippers are ultimately responsible for ensuring that their craft are seaworthy and operated safely – which includes ensuring that engines and other essential other equipment is maintained and functions properly before heading out on the water. This rule applies no matter what type of fuel is being used.
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