New England Fuel Institute

Industry Groups Descend on Washington!!!

Thu, 15 May 2008 13:34:25 -0400

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:
• Energy Market Speculation Is Now "Talk of the Town"
• U.S. DOT Proposes Increase In Annual HAZMAT Registration
• TSA Delays Compliance Deadline TWIC Enrollment
• 2008 UCR Registration Letters Sent to All Active U.S. DOT Number Holders

Webinar for SPCC Compliance

Fri, 09 May 2008 10:50:08 -0400

New England Fuel Institute has a July 2008 Webinar planned on Spill Prevention and Control Compliance (SPCC) issues, set for on or about July 1, which is the “one year out” date for full SPCC compliance.

All petroleum marketers with storage of any kind will want to participate. Mark S. Morgan, Esq., New England Fuel Institute Regulatory Counsel, will lead the regulatory discussion.

In addition to engineering firms with SPCC expertise, the webinar will include: fuel marketer(s) that have already met SPCC regulations correctly; banks for financing needs; and possible EPA participation at the close of the session. Watch for future RSS feeds, NEFI's weekly NEON e-letter, and visit www.nefi.com for later updates on this topic. (learn more at EPA site)

CFTC's Energy Market Advisory Committee Members Announced

Mon, 05 May 2008 16:10:44 -0400

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has announced the members of its recently-formed Energy Markets Advisory Committee. CFTC Acting Chairman Walter L. Lukken is the Chairman of the EMAC. It is designed to provide a public forum to examine emerging issues related to the energy markets and the CFTC’s role in these markets under the Commodity Exchange Act. Sean Cota, Cota & Cota Oil & Propane, Bellows Falls, Vt., and the most recent past president of New England Fuel Institute, will serve on this committee. See full text of announcement and advisory members at:

NEFI Opposes Elimination of Tax Credit for Renewable Diesel Used in Heating Oil

Mon, 05 May 2008 16:00:53 -0400

Circulating in the Senate is a letter opposing the planned elimination of the $1.00 renewable diesel tax credit for heating oil. New England Fuel Institute was part of this effort and opposes the elimination of this tax credit for renewable diesel used in heating oil applications. (Congress does NOT plan on eliminating this tax credit for on-road diesel fuel -- again, just for heating oil.)

Energy Trading Oversight Update

Fri, 02 May 2008 16:11:29 -0400

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:
• Senator Olympia Snowe Proposes Diesel Fuel Excise Tax Cut
• FTC Urged by Congressional Leaders to End Market 'Manipulation'
• Extension of Alternative Fuel Tax Credit for Propane
• In New Bill, Rep. From California Wants Fuel Oil Companies Planting Trees
• Aviation Fuel Tax Increase Very Likely to Pass
• Energy Assistance Directors See Record Number of LIHEAP Recipients
• Administration Officially Denies Industry Request on Heating Oil Reserves
• U.S. DOT to Propose Rule Raising Mileage Standards for Light Trucks & Cars
• Heating Oil Retailers: Now is the Time for Bioheat®
• PMAA on National Ethanol Mandate Woes: We Told You So!
• Industry 'March On Washington' In Just Two Weeks!
• 2008 Visions Conference

CFTC Oversight Measure Included In Final Farm Bill

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 09:01:00 -0400

The commodity futures oversight measure and regulatory act that the Oilheat industry and its many allies have diligently worked for has been included in the final Farm Bill language under preparation by House and Senate conferees who are likely to get the bill ready for a final vote in both chambers within a week or two.

Industry "March on Washington" Just Three Weeks Away!

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 14:50:13 -0400

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:
• Industry “March On Washington” Just Three Weeks Away!
• NH Congressman Paul Hodes: Stop Filling SPR
• Futures Market Concerns Raised In Presidential Debate
• Switch to Summertime RVP for Conventional Gasoline Begins May 1
• In Op-Ed, NY City Council Member Calls For Bioheat Mandate
• One Way You Can Make A Real Difference for the Industry In 2008…
• Thank You 2007 NEFI Action Center Fund Donors
• NORA: www.OilheatAmerica.com Sponsors Sports Car

Outgoing NEFI President to Serve on New Fed Committee on Energy Trading

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 11:28:54 -0400

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:

• Despite New Coalition Effort, Fate of “Enron Loophole” Legislation Now Uncertain
• Powerful House Member Backs Energy Speculator Ban
• Participate in the Industry “Day On The Hill” Next Month!
• President Bush Revises Position on Greenhouse Gas Regulation
• EPA Report: Oilheat Led the Way to Greenhouse Gas Reductions in 2006
• Major Gov’t. Study of Huge Oil Field in Mid-West Complete
• 2008 Officers and Boards Elected at NEFI and EFI Annual Meetings
• NORA Reaches Out to HVACR Industry In March Workshop

CFTC Oversight of Volatile Energy Trades May Be in Reach

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 12:00:01 -0400

Energy Market Oversight Coalition (EMOC) urges passage of Farm Bill to gain commodity futures trading oversight amendment. Members of this coalition and energy consumers nationwide -- from homeowners to truckers, manufacturers to farmers -- have lost faith in the ability of the energy futures markets to determine a fair price for energy that reflects supply/demand fundamentals.

Industry Testimony on Speculation Excites Senate Energy Committee

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:15:08 -0400

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:
· House Summons Majors to Testify on Oil Prices
· Industry Representatives Meet With Officials Over Northeast Heating Oil Reserve
· DOE Sends Mandatory Petroleum Product Survey to Select Marketers
· FCC Steps Up Enforcement Against Companies Sending Unsolicited Faxes
· Study Finds 10 Percent of All B-100 Fails to Meet ASTM D6751 Specifications
· NORA Hires Ross; Keyser Returns to Her Family Oilheat Business in VT

In Strong New Bill and Testimony Before Senate, Industry Calls Out Wall Street’s Game

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:18:57 -0400

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:
• Airline Industry Joins Request for Heating Oil Release; Bush Administration Silent
• Treasury Secretary’s ‘Market Regulation Overhaul’ Proposal Ignores Industry Concerns
• NEFI Asks EPA to Exempt Parked Trucks From Certain SPCC Provisions
• Homeland Security Restarts “No-Match” Letters to Employers
• DOT Reports Delay In Several Important Rulemakings Affecting Marketers
• NEFI Announces New Insurance/Benefits Website!

NEFI President Cota Asks for Industry Relief Before Senate Committee

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:49:13 -0400

New England Fuel Institute President Sean Cota (Cota & Cota, Bellows Falls, VT) will address the United States Senate today urging release of all 1.97 million barrels of the Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserves and for Congress and the administration to implement real and substantial reforms to existing law and federal regulation designed to ensure fully transparent, accountable and stable energy futures markets.

Rep. Larson (CT) and Oilheat groups to unveil major new futures market reform bill

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 09:01:27 -0400

The New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) and The Independent Connecticut Petroleum Association (ICPA) and are endorsing the effort by Congressman John B. Larson (CT) to see a futures market reform bill enacted as a means of tempering the speculation and volatility in energy commodities trading that have contributed to the recent spikes in the price of home heating oil and other petroleum products.

Airline Trade Group Asks for Heating Oil Release

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 11:50:30 -0400

In a move that affirms requests by the New England Fuel Institute and other petroleum marketer associations, the head of the Air Transport Association (ATA, James C. May) has asked Dept. of Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman to release home heating fuel from the Northeast Oil Reserve to temper the impact higher prices of home heating oil are having with respect to the cost of jet fuel nationwide due to their correlation in futures contract pricing, whereas trading for both products are based on NY Harbor delivery.

11 Associations Call on Congress to ‘Do Something’

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 09:56:38 -0400

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:
• Senator Susan Collins Backs Industry Call For Release From Reserves
• Proposed Bill Would Eliminate Duplicative Driver Background Checks
• SBA Rule Would Increase Number of Heating Fuel Dealers Classified As "Small Business"
• EPA to Re-examine 20-Year-Old Underground Storage Tank Regulations
• DHS Clarifies Propane Screening Thresholds for Chemical Mixtures

Fuel Dealers Seek Energy Price Relief, Speculation Control

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 10:46:01 -0400

Home heating oil dealers are planning to appeal to federal policymakers to enact a five-point program of relief aimed at helping consumers cope with historically high energy prices by increasing supply and reining in profiteering in markets overrun by speculators.

NE State Oilheat Associations To Host Special Dealer Seminar

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:01:10 -0400

On March 27th from 1-3 p.m., the New England states' Oilheat associations will host an interactive TV broadcast seminar for Oilheat dealers entitled “Looking for a Leg Up or a Lifeline? $100 Crude and the Impact on Home Heating Oil Retailers: Assessing Opportunities and Threats for Companies in Transition.”

You must travel to a special location to view the interactive TV broadcast which is originating from a remote location. The seminar is free, but attendance is dependent on the broadcast site. If you wish to attend this event, you must contact your state Oilheat association. For a listing of topics...

Industry Urges White House To Open Heating Oil Reserve

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 10:13:01 -0400

In a concerted effort to convince the Bush administration to draw down heating oil from the Northeast Strategic Petroleum Reserve to reduce pressure on home heating oil prices, New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) and the Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA) have issued a letter calling for the drawdown. (In related news, Reuters News services reports that the head of the Energy Information Administration acknowledged that such a move would reduce short-term prices. See http://www.reuters.com/article/companyNewsAndPR/idUSN1821841220080318 )

A CALL TO ACTION: CRUDE OIL TRADES AT $111 BBL & WASHINGTON IS IDLE

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 16:32:46 -0400

There is no great catastrophe to speak of. No looming armed conflict with Iran. The Department of Energy reported this week yet another build of crude oil stocks (6.2 million bbl increase) and gasoline stocks (1.6 million bbls increase). Yet, unprecedented cash continues to flow into commodities markets and speculation runs amuck! U.S. oil prices reached an historic high of $111 per barrel this week, surpassing the previous record set earlier in the week. Heating oil has risen 70 cents in the last 30 days. A chorus of economic analysts and even OPEC are saying that price is disconnected from fundamentals’ -- there is adequate supply to meet worldwide demand! (The reason they’ve decided to hold current production levels steady, in fact!)

Low Cost, Professional Customer Service Training Now at www.NEFI.com

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:06:04 -0400

Online training is being offered at www.NEFI.com on 21 different customer service topics. Courses are applicable to any and all types of companies. These are professional, point-for-point customer service training, tips and techniques that can be invaluable for improving and maintaining excellent customer relations.

Your company will have 24/7/365 access to 21 professional video instructions and guidance for customer service! This is an excellent way to give your staff 24/7/365 access to proven training on customer service and response to customer issues.

The fee is $135 for access to all training sessions via video downstreaming. (Fee is only $110 for NEFI member companies.)

To review course content, with the option to enroll online and start training now, link to...

House Bill Spells Trouble for Bioheat Tax Credit

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:43:30 -0400

Oilheat industry associations and other trade groups are concerned over the present wording of H.R.5351, a Congressional bill that would extend the tax credits for renewable diesel fuel (biodiesel), but only for transportation diesel fuel.
Under current law, renewable diesel that meets the requirements of the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) D975 or D396 standard is eligible for the renewable diesel tax credit. The House bill's wording deletes ASTM D396 (applies to heating oil and stationary sources) from the credit, and thus would restrict the renewable diesel tax credit to just ASTM D975 (transportation fuels). This is unfair to heating oil marketers who have become staunch advocates of incorporating renewable diesel fuel (derived from soybean oil and other sources) into the Oilheat product delivered to over eight million consumer households.

The wording snafu is explained in detail in a letter issued by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com) to U.S. Representative Richard E. Neal, Chairman, Select Revenue Measures Subcommittee, House. Committee on Ways & Means. A letter was also sent to U.S. Senator John Kerry.

FREE DETAILED WEATHER FORECAST

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:37:16 -0400

Today, you can obtain a free detailed weather forecast and climate summary for up and down the East Coast. To view and download the summary...

House Passes Energy Tax Bill And Bush Promises A Veto

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 09:12:00 -0500

Read about the current energy impasse in the latest edition of NEON, the free weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute (www.nefi.com).
This weeks headline news also includes:
• Senate Joins Fight To Stop Deliveries To Strategic Petroleum Reserve
• Discussion On Climate Change Legislation Intensifies
• TWIC Requirements Spreading To Non-TWIC Facilities As Security Precaution
• EPA Air Rule May Require More Widespread Use Of Reformulated Gasoline
• New Above Ground Storage Tank, Bulk Plant Recommended Practices Coming

Oil Dealers: Energy Markets Out of Control; Shutdown May Be Necessary

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 10:58:31 -0500

Heating Oil Dealers Want Congress to Restore Free Market Principles to Commodities Exchanges; Shutdown May Be Necessary

March 4, 2008 (Boston, MA): Home heating oil dealers buffeted by rising energy prices called on Congress today to restore free-market principles to commodities exchanges, saying that perhaps trading should be suspended to allow Congress to put an end to rampant speculation and profiteering.

Attend "Building Energy 2008" For Free! March 13, 10am-4pm

Mon, 03 Mar 2008 14:04:12 -0500

Northeast Sustainable Energy Association’s “BuildingEnergy08” Trade Show
*FREE ADMISSION* on Thursday, March 13, 2008, 10AM - 4PM

As was mentioned in a previous issue of NEON, NEFI is joining forces with northeast National Biodiesel Board (www.biodiesel.org) representatives Paul Nazzaro and Bill Riordan of Advanced Fuel Solutions (www.fuelsolution.com) and your state fuel dealer association to organize a BioHeat®-themed booth at the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association’s (NESEA) BuildingEnergy08 trade show. The show will be held from March 11-13th at the Seaport World Trade Center, Boston, MA. A guest pass for the event is available as a Pdf download.

SENATE PANEL TO CONSIDER CHANGES TO LIHEAP

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 15:30:58 -0500

The Children and Families Subcommittee of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP), Chaired by Senator Chris Dodd (D-Conn), has begun to look at ways to strengthen the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The LIHEAP statute is up for reauthorization, which provides Congress an opportunity to make improvements to the twenty-five year old federal program. Senator Dodd has asked the industry for input on how it feels the program could be changed to benefit small business heating fuel dealers and their consumers. The Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA), the New England Fuel Institute (NEFI), and the Independent Connecticut Petroleum Association (ICPA) will work with other industry trade groups to come up with specific recommendations to the committee.

Crude Futures Above $100 Bbl Despite Ample Supply; Trading Loopholes Remain Open; other key energy issues this week in NEON online...

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:37:56 -0500

• Action Alert: Call Your Members Of Congress Today!
• HHS Releases $40 Million in Emergency LIHEAP Aid to Cold Weather States
• Bipartisan "American-Made Energy Act" Aims For Long-Term Energy Security
• Senator: Study Into 200+ Billion Bbl North Dakota Oil Field Almost Complete
• Tier II Exemptions Only Apply To Retail Fueling Stations, Small Storage Facilities

2008 Oil Company Tier II Compliance Has March 1 Deadline

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 10:05:27 -0500

Petroleum bulk plants, marinas and fleet fueling facilities that stored more than 10,000 pounds of hazardous chemicals (including gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, heating oil, propane, aviation fuels, etc.) at any time during the 2007 calendar year must file Tier II reports in compliance with the EMERGENCY PLANNING AND COMMUNITY RIGHT-TO-KNOW ACT (EPCRA). These reporting requirements only apply to stationary storage; trucks do not count toward the aggregate. Reports must be filed by March 1 with local/state emergency response authorities.

Coalition Urges Congress to Act on Enron Loophole; other key energy issues this week in NEON online...

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:54:49 -0500

• Action Alert: Call Your Members of Congress Today!
• VT Congressman Urges Bush to Stop Shipping to SPR; Introduces Bill
• NEFI and PMAA Ask For Spot On Energy Futures Oversight Panel
• MA DEP Requires 15-PPM ULSD In Some Stationary Generators
• NBB: Biodiesel Offers Safe & Affordable RINS for 2008 & 2009

$100 Oil Here to Stay, Thanks to Enron Loophole

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 11:36:08 -0500

Prices May Retreat Today, But Dealers Say It's Time to Close Commodities Loopholes Once and for All

February 20, 2008 (Boston, MA): Although the price of oil has slipped back under $100, it will be back, thanks to loopholes in federal commodities regulation that let speculators manipulate the market, home heating oil dealers said today.

"Speculators and profiteers are making record profits, which are coming directly out of the pockets of American families and small businesses, and they're using loopholes in federal law to do it," Shane Sweet, of the New England Fuel Institute, said. "Congress cannot afford to dither any longer on this. They have to close these loopholes now."

It Is 'Do Or Die' For Energy Trading Oversight Bill...other key energy issues this week in NEON online...

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:23:15 -0500

Action Alert: Call Your Members of Congress Today!
Congress Fails to Provide Emergency LIHEAP Funding in Stimulus Package
PMAA Annual 'Day On The Hill' Scheduled For May
Bush Administration Flip-Flops on Weatherization Assistance
Energy Tax Bill May Form Foundation For Renewable Fuels Legislation
Senate Committee Holds Hearing On Gas Tax

Travel to Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland This May, Huge Discounts Now Available

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 13:11:46 -0500

Join New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) this May in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland. NEFI's travel agent has secured this travel package at $700 per person off of the original price. You do not have to be a member of NEFI to attend. All are welcome! From Dublin to Blarney, Limerick to Belfast, Loch Ness to Edinburgh you'll see the best this region has to offer. Dates of the trip are May 9-24. Please link below for full details and signup form. Special rate of $5,650 ends soon. Respond at your earliest convenience or phone Tracy Goodwin at 617-924-1000.

Congress Fails to Provide Emergency LIHEAP Funding

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 11:12:48 -0500

New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) Recaps Congressional Failure to Boost LIHEAP Dollars
Congress failed to provide emergency funding for the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Despite unprecedented industry efforts in advocating for emergency LIHEAP funds, the U.S. Senate fell one vote shy of approving an amended economic stimulus package that would have added $1 billion to the program for the current winter.

Senate Passes Revised Stimulus Package, No LIHEAP Support

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 09:22:27 -0500

The U.S. Senate passed, 81-16, a slimmed down economic stimulus package that does not include additional funding for Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), due to Republican opposition. The package has been sent back to the House, where it will likely receive quick consideration and go to the President for signature. (As reported by New England Fuel Institute.)

Senate considers LIHEAP boost, other key energy issues this week in NEON online...

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 15:28:56 -0500

Senate Considers $1 Billion LIHEAP Boost
Industry Priorities in FY2009 Bush Budget
House Bill Would Reduce Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR)
Annual EPCRA Tier II Inventory Reporting Deadline Near
DOT Changes Shipping Paper & Placarding Requirements for Ethanol Blends
NEFI Education Announces New Financial Assistance For Students

Key Senate Vote Wed. on Increase to LIHEAP Funding!

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 16:07:36 -0500

As of Tuesday PM, Feb. 5, the U.S. Senate is scheduled to vote on the economic stimulus legislation on Wednesday. Senators Reed and Collins are expected to offer their amendment to add LIHEAP funding to the legislation. It now appears that the amendment will be for $1 billion, split 50% - 50% between block grants and contingency funds.

Carlin Combustion Exec Q&A in "Oil & Energy" February Issue

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 11:49:08 -0500

For the last three years heating equipment sales have been falling. Tom Tubman of Carlin Combustion gives his take on what’s been happening and what can be done to improve the situation in the February 2008 issue of Oil & Energy Magazine. Now available as a free download.

Fuel Industry Coalition Urges Major Boost to LIHEAP

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 09:05:54 -0500

Read about Low Income Heating Assistance funding and other breaking news in this week's edition of NEON, a weekly e-letter published by New England Fuel Institute.

In Letter and Trips to Capitol Hill, Industry Urges Major Boost to LIHEAP
House Economic Stimulus Plan Would Provide Tax Rebates & Relief For Small Businesses
Trucking Industry Opposes Automatic Temperature Compensation
DOT Changes Shipping Paper Entries and Placarding for Ethanol Blends
EPA Considers Rule Controlling Vehicle and Fuel Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Heating Oil Execs Seek Increased Energy Aid in D.C.

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 11:52:48 -0500

Home Heating Oil Dealers Swarm Capitol Hill, Urging Congressional Reps and Senators to Bolster Energy Aid in Stimulus Package
Members of the New England Fuel Institute and the Petroleum Marketers Association of America descended on Capitol Hill today as part of a coalition of advocates asking members of Congress to increase the amount of money set aside for home heating assistance this year.

$3.6 Billion Add-on Sought for LIHEAP As Part of Congressional Economic Stimulus Package

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 13:49:22 -0500

In a bipartisan letter from the Northeast/Midwest coalition to the Senate leadership, 37 Senators have urged the inclusion of $3.62 Billion supplemental in that chamber’s economic stimulus package, now being hammered out behind closed doors. If the supplemental is included, it would bring the total LIHEAP funding for the current fiscal year (2008) to $5.1 billion, plus an additional $500 million in contingency funds.

Senators Ask DOE to Halt Crude Diversions to U.S. Petroleum Reserve

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 09:59:00 -0500

Read about Strategic Petroleum Reserve and other key energy issues now at NEON online...
Senators Ask DOE to Halt Crude Diversions to Petroleum Reserve
Citizens Energy Stops Taking Applications for Fuel Assistance
EPA to Publish Rule Requiring ULSD Compliant Locomotive, Marine Engines
European Union Considers Tariffs on U.S. Bio-Diesel
Federal Studies Tout Benefits of Cellulosic Ethanol; Switchgrass
2008 Visions Conference Venue, Dates Announced

More Money For LIHEAP Comes At NEFI, PMAA Urging, et. al.

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 14:46:45 -0500

Read about LIHEAP and other key energy issues now at NEON online...
Bush Releases $450 Million Emergency LIHEAP at Urging of Industry
Senators Ask DOE to Halt Crude Diversions to Petroleum Reserve
Citizens Energy Stops Taking Applications for Fuel Assistance
EPA to Publish Rule Requiring ULSD Compliant Locomotive, Marine Engines
European Union Considers Tariffs on U.S. Bio-Diesel
Federal Studies Tout Benefits of Cellulosic Ethanol; Switchgrass
2008 Visions Conference Venue, Dates Announced

Legislation Would Leave Enron Loophole Wide Open

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 11:17:00 -0500

January 23, 2008 (Boston, MA) -- Congressional legislation aimed at closing the "Enron Loophole" instead leaves the door wide open for oil and gasoline speculators, according to an analysis of the measure by the New England Fuel Institute.

Citizens Energy Stops Taking Applications For Fuel Assistance

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 09:22:01 -0500

As announced by Citizens Energy to fuel dealers who are participating in the Citizens Energy/CITGO Oil Heat Program, Citizens ceased taking household applications for fuel assistance as of Friday, Jan. 18, 2008 due to the enormous requests for aid. For more detailed information...

New Oilheat, Gas, AC and Propane Training Programs

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 09:16:26 -0500

New England Fuel Institute's Technical Training Center has new additions to their 2008 class schedule. The Training Center is an industry leader in HVAC technical training and related courses with classes held in Watertown, Mass. and satellite locations throughout New England. There are several new 1, 2 and 3 day seminars on subjects such as Equipment Sales, Electrical Troubleshooting, Applied Service Management, and Propane CETP training among others.

Fuel Industry Seeks $586 Million In Emergency LIHEAP Aid

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 15:44:07 -0500

Obtain this and other breaking energy news from NEFI Energy News Online:
Connecticut State Delegation Wants Heating Oil Reserves Opened
NEFI Publishes Compliance Bulletin on DHS Propane Reporting Rule
Does New DHS Rule Apply To Other Petroleum Products?
Proposed FMCSA Rule Would Require New Driver Training Requirements

Leading Heating Oil Analyst Shares Views in January 2008 OIl&Energy Magazine

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 09:48:35 -0500

Petroleum marketers are facing another year of record high product costs and rampant price volatility in 2008. Lucian (Lou) Pugliaresi, president of the Energy Policy Research Foundation, Inc. (EPRINC), expects the weak U.S. dollar and the strong international demand for distillates to keep heating oil prices high. He also sees advantages in delaying the upcoming transition to low-sulfur heating oil for as long as possible.
Read Pugliaresi’s recent in-depth interview with Oil & Energy magazine on page 34 of the January 2008 issue. (Acrobat Reader 7 or higher recommended to access live links via the Pdf.)

Oil & Energy Magazine Now Available as Free Pdf Download

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 14:22:25 -0500

Starting with the January 2008 issue, Oil & Energy Magazine is available as a Pdf file that can be opened on the reader’s computer. A typical issue will range from 7MB to 10MB in size, allowing for a fully readable and printable Pdf.

NEFI VP Jim Collura on Fox Business Fri. AM, Dec. 28, to Discuss Energy Trading Manipulation

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 16:38:10 -0500

Jim Collura, NEFI Vice President, Government Affairs, has been invited to speak about the Enron Loophole issue on Fox Business Network tomorrow morning during their Money for Breakfast program, which runs weekdays from 7-9 am.

Current Issue of NEON is Now Available

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 11:53:34 -0500

NEFI President Addresses Congress on Speculation
Status & Analysis of Energy Market Oversight Legislation
President Signs New Energy Bill Into Law
Congress Set to Approve Massive Funding Measure

EIA Releases Fuel Oil Sale Data for Calendar 2006

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 10:18:35 -0500

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) has released fuel oil (distillate, residual, kerosene) sales and volume data for calendar 2006. The mild climate in most of the nation late in the year is in good part attributable to the marked drop in heating oil distribution volumes. On highway demand for distillate (diesel fuel) continued to climb.

NEFI Alert: Senate Passes Bill That Would Deter Energy Market Speculation

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 10:05:09 -0500

As members are well aware, NEFI and a coalition of over 80 national, regional and state groups led the charge to Close the Enron Loophole which has contributed to excessive speculation and opened the door to manipulation and fraud in the unregulated energy commodities markets, or "dark markets."

NEON E-letter Reports on Enengy Speculation, New Energy Bill

Fri, 07 Dec 2007 08:55:15 -0500

The 12-05-07 edition of NEON, a fuel news e-letter issued by New England Fuel Institute, covers late breaking news, including:

Price Gouging May Be Dropped As Congress Steps Up Negotiations On Energy Bill
NEFI Joins National Call For Greater LIHEAP Funding
ASTM Gives Preliminary Approval To Bioheat® Equivalency; B6-B20 Biodiesel Blends
TWIC Enrollment Process Underway For Ports In Boston & Portland
GAO Criticizes Transportation Dept's Driver Drug Testing Program
Truck Manufacturers Split Over New SCR-Urea Diesel Engine Technology
Marketers to EPA: Private Insurance Carriers Not Paying UST Claims

Learn About Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Program

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 09:51:02 -0500

NEFI's Legislative & Regulatory Action Center has issued an FAQ bulletin that answers many questions about the new Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Program, created under the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA). MTSA came into being in order to improve port security.

To learn which workers are required to have TWIC identification and how to obtain TWIC ID, download the pdf.

EPA Issues Guidance for Biodiesel Blenders/Users and Producers

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 11:34:48 -0500

EPA has release a pdf document to explain and clarify EPA's regulatory requirements for biodiesel producers and biodiesel blenders/users. While the term biodiesel generally has a broad interpretation, as used in this guidance document, its meaning is directed specifically to biodiesel-ester.

Auction To Benefit Family of Slain Oilheat Tech

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 09:50:52 -0500

A complete boiler package has been donated by Crown Boilers and several other accessories vendors to raise funds to benefit the family of Carl Tomberlain. Carl, 42, a PETRO employee, was shot and killed while making a service call in Philadelphia on November 7.

ALERT: EPA Deadline for Heating Oil Ticket Change Sunday, Nov. 25

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 14:10:05 -0500

The Environmental Protection Agency has set a deadline for including the word “non-road” to the new descriptor for heating oil required on all Product Transfer Documents (or “PTDs,” including shipping papers and delivery tickets). The change must be made by Sunday, November 25, 2007.

NJ Fuel Mechants to Air Radio Ads to "Close Enron Loophole" in Energy Trades

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 09:31:06 -0500

The Fuel Merchants of NJ will air radio ads that draw the public's attention to speculator involvement and presumed manipulation of energy commodity trades that have lead to radically higher prices for heating oil and gasoline. Follow the link to hear the radio spots.

NEON e-letter has latest word on CFTC oversight of energy trades

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:14:30 -0500

The 11-15-07 edition of NEON, a fuel news e-letter issued by New England Fuel Institute, covers late breaking news, including...

Major Industry "Close The Enron Loophole" Campaign Reaches Out to Media, Public and Congress
Vermont Rep Introduces "Close The Enron Loophole Act"
Congress Finalizes (And President Vetoes) $2.4 Billion for LIHEAP
Victory! DHS Drops Plan to Extend Major New Rule to Diesel Fuel Marketers
Propane Remains In Sight of New DHS Chemicals Security Rule
SBA Set To Expand Small Business Status For Heating Oil & Propane Dealers

Associations Collaborate to Reshape Media Outlook on Heating Oil

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 14:51:35 -0500

New England Fuel Institute (NEFI) and nine state Oilheat associations have retained the public relations firm of Woodbury & Morse, of Portland, Maine, in an unprecedented collaboration that will provide quick, coordinated response to negative media publicity and proactively promote Oilheat.

Transportation Worker Identification Credentials Starts in Providence, RI

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 15:40:38 -0500

The TWIC program provides a tamper-resistant biometric credential to maritime workers requiring unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, outer continental shelf facilities, and vessels regulated under the Maritime Transportation Security Act, or MTSA, and all U.S. Coast Guard credentialed merchant mariners.

NEFI Member Dennis K. Burke Expands Into Vermont

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 14:03:27 -0500

Bio-diesel pioneer Dennis K. Burke, Inc. of Chelsea, Massachusetts (www.burkeoil.com) has expanded operations into Vermont.

DOE Sees Crude Oil At Under $90/bbl. in 2008

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 13:17:16 -0500

The U.S. Dept. Of Energy released its short-term outlook, anticipating that crude oil will move lower during 2008...

Pending Bills Would Curtail Excess Speculation in Energy Trades

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 08:27:41 -0500

There is legislation introduced in the House and Senate that will help bring transparency and accountability to energy commodity markets.
New England Fuel Institute and others are urging dealer members, constituents, and concerned citizens to contact their Senators and Representatives to garner support for these legislative measures...

Mass. Introduces Biofuel Initiative

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 09:02:51 -0500

2% level for heating oil would be mandatory by 2010...

Public Access Website Provides Information on Getting CFTC Oversight and Greater Transparency in Energy Trades

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 15:01:30 -0500

The prices for crude oil, gasoline, heating oil, natural gas, propane, and other commodities have been at the mercy of energy traders, who have used the little-known “Enron Loophole” to cash in at the expense of families and small businesses. The Energy Market Oversight Committee is a coalition of over 80 concerned organizations seeking greater oversight to create a more level and stable trading field for fuels and commodities.

Learn How to Increase Your Equipment Sales for More Profit

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 13:19:35 -0500

On December 12, 2007 from 9:00 am - 3:30 pm industry expert Bob Hedden will present this valuable seminar on improving your equipment sales skills at New England Fuel Institute's Technical Training Center in Watertown, Mass. This is a NORA approved course and attendees will receive 6 CEUs.

House Fails to Move Veto-Proof Healthcare Bill With Cigarette Tax Hike

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 11:34:52 -0500

The U.S. House of Representatives failed to override a Presidential veto on legislation that would fund an expanded federal health care program for children through a 61-cent per pack increase in the federal cigarette tax. The legislation, known as the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (or SCHIP) would have raised the federal tax on cigarettes to a total of $1.00 per pack. The 273-156 vote was just 13 votes shy of the total needed to overturn the President’s veto. President Bush had taken odds with expanding the program’s benefits beyond families within 200 percent of the poverty level – the bill would provide benefits to families earning three times the poverty level ($62,000 for a family of four).

Informal Talks Between Chambers on Big Energy Package

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 11:33:57 -0500

Since there will be no formal energy conference, the House and Senate have been holding informal talks between committee chairmen in order to pass an energy bill that will combine the two very diverse bills, the Senate’s H.R.6 and the House’s H.R.3221. One of the biggest items in the energy bill is the renewable fuels mandate in the Senate bill which would increase biofuels production to 36 billion gallons by 2022.

Senate Approves $1 Billion LIHEAP Funding Cut

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 11:33:02 -0500

The Senate has approved $2.16 billion for the FY08 federal LIHEAP program,
$1 billion less than the FY06 level and $500 million less than the FY08 package approved by the House. Part of the Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS) and Education Department Appropriations bill, the Senate funding provides $1.9 billion in formula grants to states and $182 million in emergency funding which can be released under the discretion of the President.

As Crude Tops All-Time Record, NEFI & Allies Call On Congress To Act

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 11:39:40 -0500

A diversified coalition established by NEFI and PMAA that includes more than 80 national, regional and state agriculture, motor vehicle and home heating fuel, public power and consumer advocacy associations sent a letter to every member of Congress urging them to cosponsor the “Close the Enron Loophole Act” (S.2058) recently introduced by Senator Carl Levin of Michigan. A virtually identical bill has been introduced in the House of
Representatives this week by Reps. Peter Welch (D-VT) and Rob Andrews
(D-NJ).

SENATE PASSES FY08 LABOR HHS APPROPRIATIONS BILL WITH LIHEAP AT SAME LEVEL AS FYO7

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 09:16:37 -0400

Update Courtesy of National Fuel Funds Network
October 25, 2007
SENATE PASSES FY08 LABOR HHS APPROPRIATIONS BILL WITH LIHEAP AT SAME LEVEL AS FYO7.

The Senate passed the FY 2008 Labor, HHS Appropriations bill last night. The vote was 75-19 and would have been 80-20 had Kennedy, Dodd, Obama, Biden and McCain been present to vote on the bill. While the President has threatened to veto the bill, there is now a veto-proof margin in the Senate, and the House is short by about 6 votes.

The Senate bill maintains LIHEAP at the FY 07 funding level of $2.16 billion ($1.98 billion in basic grant and $181.7 million in contingency); the House includes a $500 million increase for a total of $2.66 billion ($1.98 billion in basic grant and $681.7 million in contingency).

The next step will be the conference where LIHEAP advocates will have to fight to keep the additional $500 million in contingency funding for LIHEAP that was included in the House bill passed in July.

LIHEAP and most other HHS, Education and Labor Department programs are operating at the FY 2007 levels, by means of a Continuing Resolution that expires on November 16. According to the National Energy Assistance Directors' Association, HHS hopes to get first quarter LIHEAP apportionment and funds out to the states by the end of the week.

Nationwide Coalition Seeks Congressional Sponsorship of Energy Commodity Oversight Bill

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 09:19:38 -0400

The Energy Market Oversight Coalition and its more than 80 national, regional and state agricultural, motor vehicle and home heating fuel, public power and consumer groups are seeking support of the “Close the Enron Loophole Act” (S.2058), introduced by Senator Carl Levin of Michigan. In light of unprecedented speculation and volatility in the energy commodity markets, the bill aims to close the gaps in federal law that allow energy profiteers to distort the price of energy for personal gain. New England Fuel Institute is a prominent member of the coalition.

IRS to Require Blenders to Obtain 637 M Registration

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 10:40:54 -0400

Driver Hours of Service Rules Given Brief Reprieve by Federal Court

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 10:40:00 -0400

Clarification on Fuel Use in Stationary Off-Road Equipment

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 10:39:03 -0400