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PrintTulsa BioFuels creates an alternative fuel source
After feeling the pinch at the pump, three years ago a group of Tulsa entrepreneurs decided to create an alternate fuel source for the region. The resulting firm — Tulsa BioFuels — came out “because we got tired of paying (the high cost) for gas,” says Randy Kimberlin, chief operating officer of Tulsa BioFuels.
Besides the high cost of diesel, Kimberlin liked the idea of starting a company that would benefit more than just his pocketbook.
“We liked the idea that it was renewable and that you’re not limited by the refinery,” he says. “You’re just limited to how much grease you pick up, and somebody’s always making grease.”
Over the past three years, the company has created a viable business out of recycling used cooking oil, which is picked up from local restaurant partners, such as Kilkenny’s, McNellie’s and Hideaway Pizza, and at local Metropolitan Environmental Trust recycling centers, Tulsa BioFuels President Ted Banzhaf says. At the company headquarters in north Tulsa, the oil is heated, processed, filtered, cleaned and ready for use in about two days. Each batch of fuel is tested and must follow American Society for Testing and Materials standards.
Besides the sustainable qualities of biodiesel, the product also burns a cleaner exhaust and has solvent properties, Kimberlin and Banzhaf say. And, yes, the faint smell of french fries will arise. The company’s entire fleet uses biodiesel, as well as Kimberlin’s personal truck.
This year, Tulsa BioFuels has set a goal to produce 500,000 gallons of biodiesel as well as increase its number of restaurant partners. In the future, Banzhaf says to look for Tulsa BioFuels stickers on the windows of company partners.
Currently, customers include large fleets such as the Metro Tulsa Transit Authority, and the company plans to approach local school districts in the future.
