First USCG Cutter to Use Renewable Diesel

Coast Guard Cutter 'Henry Blake' is first to utilize renewable diesel as part of an operational evaluation

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Henry Blake refueled recently, using a 50/50 blend of petroleum F-76 and hydroprocessed renewable diesel derived from algal oil, in Everett, Wash., becoming the first Coast Guard cutter to use as the renewable diesel as part of an operational evaluation.

Successful evaluation of this fuel mixture, known as 50/50 F76/HRD76, can help guide the development of alternative fuels in America, reducing the nation’s dependence on foreign oil.

Developed through a partnership with the U.S. Navy, the Coast Guard Office of Energy Management was provided with 50/50 F76/HRD76 to examine the “drop in” operational feasibility of the renewable diesel in Coast Guard cutters. The Navy and Coast Guard effort identified the Henry Blake (WLM 563) as a prime candidate due to availability of the 50/50 F76/HRD76 fuel at the cutter’s existing fuel supply depot, the capacity and burn rates of the cutter within the operational area, the make and model of engines aboard the cutter, and the limited impact to cutter crew and schedule.

As the inaugural cutter to take delivery of this advanced biofuel, its maiden “green” voyage will mark a significant achievement for the both military services’ progress toward energy security and sustainable fleets.