Description:
Serving the Oilheat, Propane, Diesel Fuel and Biofuel Industries
Contents:
Dec. O&E: How Fuel Dealers Are Coping With Consumer Demands
The December 2008 issue of Oil & Energy Magazine is now available online. The issue looks at new tactics for home heating oil dealers to guarantee they get what they’re owed by customers in a volatile economy and at a merger two years later to find out its impact on both businesses, their employees and their customers. We also check in with the president of Daigle Oil, who talks about the challenges of running a home heating oil company across international borders. Heating oil also shows its continued economic viability against emerging fuels and technologies at a regional meeting of Affordable Comfort Inc.
You can read those stories and more online by downloading the PDF at http://www.nefi.com/oilandenergy/archive.htm
Final EPA Rules for 2009 for Fuel Storage Issued
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a final SPCC rulemaking this week that includes important compliance information for fuel dealers who store petroleum products in aboveground storage tanks. The final rule provides petroleum marketers with new flexibility in meeting SPCC plan revisions that must be implemented in 2009. The final rule will make compliance with SPCC revisions more streamlined and cost effective, in good part attributable to the efforts of New England Fuel Institute and affiliated state, regional and national associations.
NEFI and Allies Meet With Treasury Officials Over Credit Crisis
Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• International Leaders Vow Greater Financial Services Regulation
• NEFI Hosts Energy Trading Oversight Coalition Meeting
• Republicans Lose Alaska and Lieberman; Senate Dems Now at 58
• Here is Your Chance to Contribute to the 'Industry's Cause'
• New Federal Rule May Require Some Drivers to Wear High Visibility Vests
• Small Business Administration Tries to Free Additional Funding for Loans; Meanwhile, Congressional Hearing Shows SBA Lending Down in 2008
NEFI to Offer Live Website Video Streaming Broadcast
This January the New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) plans to install a state-of-the-art audio/video conferencing system at its Watertown, Mass., office. This system will enable NEFI to better communicate with its membership and students of the NEFI Technical Training Center with live video streaming among other features.
NEFI aims to help members and students save time and money by eliminating travel expenses to meetings and training classes by offering this "tele-presence" alternative. "The conferencing system will allow NEFI to better serve its membership by making its educational, legislative and regulatory services more accessible," said NEFI CEO Shane Sweet. NEFI also plans to archive the live events for those who did not participate in the live broadcast. They also plan to link to other video conferencing sites in the Northeast.
The NEFI Technical Training Center anticipates expanding its reach using this new service. Companies from all over New England will now be able to "send" their employees to NEFI training without them ever leaving the office or paying for travel expenses.
Look to www.nefi.com for updates on the new service in the near future.
Obtain New Customized Weather Service at Only $50 Per Year
BOSTON, MA: New England Fuel Institute, in conjunction with Meteorologist John Bagioni, is introducing a new weather service available via email delivery at the low cost of $50.00/year to member companies of NEFI. Non-member companies can subscribe but at a higher rate.
The new service has many features, including: detailed weather discussions about the expected temperature and storm patterns (issued Mondays); Weather Updates & Disruptive Storm Forecasts (Issued 3X per week); Regional 10 Day Degree Day Forecasts and monthly reports; plus long range forecasts.
The service will also allow personal Q&A with Meteorologist John Bagioni.
Treasury Secretary Will Not Use Bailout to Buy Troubled Assets
Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• A Second Economic Stimulus Package Still Possible in Lame Duck Session
• Despite Congressional Races Still in Question, New Congress Taking Shape
• FTC Holds Hearing on Proposed Energy Market Manipulation Rule
• Biofuels Industry Seeks Delay in EPA Rule Setting Renewable Fuel Mandate
• SBA Small Business Loans Decline to Record Low, Congress Holds Hearing
NEFI and Allies Ask Treasury to Address Industry Credit Issues
Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• Election 2008 Outcome, Political Shift in Washington Brings New Challenges and Opportunities
• DHS Finalizes Safe Harbor Provisions of 'No-Match' Rule
• Reminder: Unified Carrier Registration May be Required in Your State
• OPIS Webinar: NEFI Members Receive Discount Registration Fee
• NEFI Action Center Contributions Now Being Accepted Online
Industry Asks U.S. Treasury to Help Fuel Dealer Credit Concerns
Nine Northeast heating oil industry associations have addressed a letter to U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulsen, requesting that he use provisions of the recently enacted Emergency Economic Stabilization Act (EESA) to provide funding to Oilheat retailers, enabling to them buy out fixed price supply contracts arranged with wholesale suppliers when heating oil prices were driven to unreasonably high prices due to rampant volatility and presumed speculation in the marketplace.
NEFI Issues Compliance Bulletin to Members Regarding DHS Final Safe Harbor Provisions of the 'No-Match' Rule
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a supplemental rule last week on its "no-match" rule which determines when an employer is liable for knowingly employing an illegal alien. The rule provides a safe harbor against liability for employers who take certain steps upon receiving a "no-match" letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
NEFI Offers Free Seminar on Drug/Alcohol Testing and the Employee Assistance Program on November 13, 10:30am-12:30pm
New England Fuel Institute is holding a free seminar on employee drug/alcohol testing and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at their Watertown, Mass. location on November 13. The seminar will be held from 10:30 am - 12:30 pm and will be presented by The Newport Alliance.
Some of the topics covered will be: who do the rules apply to? DOT vs. Non-DOT drug testing; review of the rules and regulations; employer responsibilities; the Employee Assistance Program; and a Q&A session with a drug testing compliance adviser.
To register
Joseph P. Cavanaugh, Former CEO of Star Gas Partners, L.P.
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing last night of an industry colleague and former Star Gas Partners, L.P., CEO, Joe Cavanaugh. Joe held several key leadership positions during his 38-year career with Star Gas Partners.
Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME) Featured in November Oil & Energy Magazine
The November issue of Oil & Energy features a Q&A with Maine's Republican Senator Olympia Snow on developing a comprehensive energy strategy; the 2008-2009 LIHEAP Outlook; computer software can help retailers stay a step ahead of rapidly changing market prices; and the weather forecast from John Bagioni calling for cold November and December with possible moderation further into the winter. Oil&Energy is available to you online
Vital Webinar for SPCC Compliance - Recent Rule Changes
The New England Fuel Institute will be holding its second online seminar ("Webinar") on the important issue of Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC). It will be presented by NEFI's regulatory counsel, Mark S. Morgan, Esq., and Tim Laughlin, a professional engineer from the North Carolina Petroleum and Convenience Marketers (NCPCM).
The Webinar is scheduled for November 5, 2008 @ 2pm EST and is expected to last a little over an hour. Members of NEFI, NCPCM, NORA and PMAA will receive a member discount. NOTE: WE ARE STILL WAITING ON A RULEMAKING FROM THE EPA; WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO RESCHEDULE SHOULD THE EPA DELAY ON THIS IMPORTANT RULEMAKING. SPCC rules apply to facilities with aggregate above-ground oil storage capacity over 1,320 gallons (see 40 CFR 112.1(b) for complete details on applicability).
All you need is a phone and internet access! For more information, contact Dave Huffman at 617-923-5022 or dave@nefi.com. Register online or download an order form at www.nefiactioncenter.com.
Official Bioheat Website, Toll-Free Hotline Educates Consumers and Dealers
Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• All $5.1 Billion in Federal LIHEAP Funding Released
• Massachusetts Oilheat Council Comments to Feds on Boston Hazmat Routing Issues
• GAO Faults Slow Pace of TWIC Enrollment For Drivers Seeking Entry to Ports
• EPA Set to Finalize Rule Revising EPCRA Tier II Reporting For Bulk Plants
• ASTM Publishes Long Awaited Biodiesel Blend Quality Specifications
Free Detailed Weather Forecast
Today, you can obtain a free detailed weather forecast. To view and download the summary...
Bioheatonline.com Goes Live Wednesday, October 22
The National Biodiesel Board is launching a new Bioheat® information website "bioheatonline.com" and Bioheat 24-Hour Hotline "877-B5-1-LINE." Scheduled to start October 22, 2008, fuel dealers and consumers will have a resource where they can learn about Bioheat and how to start taking advantage of this cleaner, greener fuel source.
Fuel dealers will be able to refer their customers to the website where they can watch consumer-friendly videos that demonstrate how Bioheat is an excellent fuel source for their home, how it benefits the environment and reduces our country's dependence on foreign oil. Dealers can include a link to the Bioheat site on their own website and/or include the information in future customer newsletters or communications.
There will also be technical information available for fuel retailers on blending and selling Bioheat. Retailers will be given the option to register on the site as a Bioheat dealer. Registering will provide them with access to professionally designed customizable marketing materials. The Bioheat Hotline 877-B5-1-LINE (877-251-5463) is manned by Bioheat experts and is dedicated to answering fuel dealer, fuel wholesaler, and OEM Bioheat questions 24-hours a day.
The heating oil consumer market is ready to go green--now you have a one-stop-shop for information and materials to bring it to your customers. To learn more (scheduled to go live 10-22-2008) www.bioheatonline.com
NEFI/MOC Credit & Collections Seminar, November 19, Watertown, Mass.
Industry expert Bob Hedden presents a one-day seminar "Creative Credit & Collections for Oilheat & Propane Companies" at New England Fuel Institute’s (NEFI) Education Center in Watertown, Mass., on November 19.
NEFI and the Massachusetts Oilheat Council (MOC) are offering this one-day seminar to the region's fuel marketers. Credit and collection issues can be the most important things a retail fuel company owner deals with. When fuel dealers deliver product to their accounts, they need to turn those sales into cash as soon as possible. In this era of volatile fuel prices, tight margins, and stretched credit lines, the information provided in this class might be the difference between survival and bankruptcy for many companies.
Instructor Bob Hedden is a well-known industry consultant and educator with over 30 years of Oilheat industry experience. His experience covers all aspects of operating a retail fuel business such as service, marketing, sales, and overall business management.
Members of NEFI or the Massachusetts Oilheat Council can register for $150. The fee for non-members is $200. The seminar will be held from 9 am-3pm on November 19. For more information phone 617-924-1000 or link below
Study Compares Greenhouse Gas Impact of Oilheat and Natural Gas
Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• Victory Within Sight: Congress May Finally Get Tough on Dark Markets
• As Economic Crisis Deepens Despite Bailout Attempts, Next Steps Questioned
• Shipping Paper Requirements for Biodiesel Blended Fuels
• How to List "BioHeat®" on Customer Delivery Tickets
SPCC Webinar Scheduled for November 5
Learn the most up-to-date SPCC compliance information from the convenience of your computer. SPCC compliance information will be presented that applies to facilities with aggregate 1,320+ gallons of aboveground oil storage capacity. Learn how to comply before the July 1, 2009 deadline. The SPCC Webinar conducted in July was a sellout, so please register early for November 5 to reserve your space.
Members of NEFI, PMAA, NORA or North Carolina Petroleum & Convenience Marketers are eligible for a discounted registration fee.
Bush Signs “Wall Street Bailout” and Energy Tax Extenders Into Law
Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (a.k.a. Urea) Distribution Ramps Up for 2010 Mandate
• Do I Need Decals on My E-10 Fuel Pumps?
• Citizens Energy Program Will Launch Soon and Will Include New Hampshire
• $10K Donation Puts James Devaney Fuel with Sprague and Global at Top of Action Center Donor List
• API Reports Mid-Year Combined State/Federal Motor Fuel Excise Tax Burden
Future of Economy Uncertain as Congress Takes Up Bailout Package
Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• ACTION ALERT: Senate Version of Bailout Contains Biodiesel Tax Credit
• President Signs Bill to Double LIHEAP; Lift Drilling Ban; Bail Out Detroit
• Ethanol Pump Decals Now Available Through NEFI
• NEFI Launches New Action Center Website www.nefiactioncenter.com
DOE Establishes Energy Savers Site
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched an informational Energy Savers campaign "Stay Warm, Save Money" aimed at helping American consumers and businesses save on energy expenses during the cold winter months. Energy Savers offers proactive ways to implement simple, cost-effective, energy saving solutions for both homes and businesses. At the heart of this campaign is a consumer-focused website developed by the Department of Energy: www.energysavers.gov.
NEFI, Industry Coalition Ask House and Senate to Address Commodities Anti-Speculation Measure
Boston (09-30-08): The New England Fuel Institute (NEFI), the Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA), and other prominent business organizations have issued a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, encouraging them to address the impact of excessive speculation in the futures markets as soon as possible, as speculative activity may be manipulating actual "spot" prices for physical commodities such as heating oil.
Critical Biodiesel Measure Passed by House; Matters Hinge on Tax Extender Bills
Report submitted by: Paul Nazzaro, Advanced Fuel Solutions, Inc.
This past Friday September 26, 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives approved H.R. 7060, the Renewable Energy and Job Creation Tax Act of 2008, by a 257 to 166 margin. The legislation contained the following provisions pertaining to biodiesel:
• Extends the biodiesel tax incentive and the small producers income tax credit for one year through December 31, 2009. Under current law, these provisions expire on December 31, 2008.
• Provides that all biodiesel qualifies for the $1 per gallon tax incentive, regardless of feedstock used to produce the fuel.
• Closes the so-called "splash and dash" loophole by denying the biodiesel tax incentive for fuel produced outside the U.S. for use outside the U.S. This provision would be effective as of May 15, 2008, the date the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee first unveiled the provision.
• Properly defines the renewable diesel tax incentive to apply only to free-standing, Greenfield renewable diesel production, not co-processed renewable diesel.
October Issue of Oil & Energy Magazine is Now Available Online
The October issue of Oil & Energy will feature a recap of presentations at the Visions Conference -- SBA Lending Programs, Hedging in the Current Market, and Bioheat 101. The issue will also include: Sen. Jack Reed's take on American energy policy; digital efficiency tools; an SEC expert discusses Oil Reserve reporting; and a Q&A with meteorologist John Bagioni and more.
Victory! Federal LIHEAP Funding Doubled
Read about the current energy issues in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This week's headline news also includes:
• Congress Allows Ban on Off-Shore Drilling to Expire
• Senate Passed Bill Contains Biodiesel Tax Credits; Ends "Splash And Dash"
• Action Alert: Tell Congress to Add Speculation Bill to Wall Street Bailout!
• Reminder: EPA Stage I Compliance Deadline for Gas Stations
Deep Concern Remains Over Unregulated Commodities Markets
With all the capital fleeing Wall Street, there is fear it will flock into commodities, further driving energy and food prices beyond their already unreasonable levels. The markets witnessed some of that last week. The futures markets are severely unregulated, many trades are opaque and the markets lack sufficient position limits and other measures to deter excessive speculation and manipulation.
Therefore, various anti-speculation coalitions are trying to get the Anti-Excessive Speculation bill (H.R.6604/S.3268) attached as part of the Wall Street bailout package. As of 2:00 PM today (Thursday 09-24-08) news reports out of Washington suggest that deal on the so-called bailout package has been reached in principal by key members of Congress from both parties who will now proceed to the White House for conference with President Bush. Details of any agreement have yet to emerge, so the attempts to secure control over speculation remain as valid as ever.
The commodities issues are distrurbing world food and energy markets, as referenced in a letter to Congress and the Adminsitation by a coalition of over 60 international social justice organizations. Rampant speculation in the commodities futures markets has endangered the lives of millions of the world’s poor by contributing to a doubling or tripling of food prices according to their statement.
The organizations today urged the U.S. government to close trading loopholes and enforce speculative position limits in energy and food commodities markets during a press conference and through a letter to the President and Members of Congress. They were joined in their request by Dominican Republic President Leonel Fernandez and commodities futures markets analysts Michael Masters and Michael Greenberger.
Commodities Speculation Bill, Low Income Heat Assistance, Biodiesel Tax Credit at Stake
With apparently only one week left for Congress, fate of key legislation hangs in the balance. The H.R. 6604 bill would impose critical position limits (how many contracts a trader can buy) on non-commercial (or "non-physical") market traders, or those traders that have no direct connection to the physical product. It would close the "Foreign Markets" loophole. It would also increase transparency on over-the-counter (or OTC) markets, require studies into the roll of pension funds, strengthen the CFTC through new staff resources, and help return some of the decision making on regulations to "physical" players.
The background information and support amassed by the New England Fuel Institute Action Center can be obtained at
Emergency Bill Would Grant Heating Fuel Loans to Consumers
An emergency home heating loan bill has been introduced by Paul Kanjorski (D-PA). The bill would guarantee loans for up to $5,000 for consumers who did not exceed 150% of median household income for 2008 or 2009. Funds may go directly to supplier.
Bulletin -- HR 6604 Passes Crucial Commodities Oversight Bill
Washington, D.C: Thursday, September 18
In a move encouraged by the efforts of New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) and other leading national and regional fuel trade associations and a nationwide coalition representing vast industrial and consumer interests, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to bring greater transparency and accountability to commodity markets, and for other purposes. H.R. 6604 passed today by a margin of 273 to 124.
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