the Agency to ensure that all energy sources are evaluated based on current technology and actual emissions profiles, not outdated assumptions. Modern liquid heating fuels have achieved dramatic reductions in particulate and sulfur emissions and continue to advance through renewable blending. These improvements should be recognized in any comparative analysis of energy options.
Furthermore, the heating oil industry’ s distributed storage model provides essential resilience to the Northeast energy system. With millions of households maintaining on-site fuel storage, our customers reduce strain on the electric grid during peak winter demand periods. This decentralized approach enhances energy security, particularly during extreme weather events when pipeline capacity constraints or power outages threaten other energy delivery systems.
As EPA considers potential guidance or rulemaking regarding Section 401 implementation, we respectfully offer the following recommendations:
First, the Agency should ensure that Section 401 reviews are based on accurate, current information about all energy sources. Decisions based on outdated characterizations of heating oil and related technologies do a disservice to consumers and undermine market competition.
Second, EPA should recognize that energy diversity strengthens regional resilience and national security. Preserving access to multiple energy sources, including ultra-low sulfur heating oil and its renewable blends, protects consumer choice, embraces free market competition, and reduces systemic risk from overreliance on any single energy delivery system.
Third, any reforms to Section 401 implementation should consider impacts on small businesses throughout the energy supply chain. Our members and their employees deserve regulatory certainty that allows them to continue investing in cleaner technologies and serving their customers and communities.
Finally, we encourage EPA to support continued innovation in renewable fuel development. The success of biodiesel and renewable diesel in the heating oil market demonstrates that market-driven solutions can achieve significant environmental improvements without requiring costly infrastructure overhauls or stranding existing assets.
The transformation of the heating oil industry demonstrates that American innovation and small business ingenuity can deliver both environmental progress and energy security. As EPA shapes policy regarding Section 401 implementation, we encourage the Agency to base decisions on current technology and performance rather than outdated assumptions. We are not asking for special treatment, just accurate representation in these critical policy discussions and a seat at the table as the administration takes action to ensure a new era of American energy leadership.
In closing, NEFI looks forward to working with you to ensure Americans have access to safe, reliable, and affordable energy while supporting the small businesses that form the backbone of energy distribution in the Northeast. l FON
Courtesy of Oil and Energy Service Professionals
� OESP HONORS MEMBERS FOR NATIONAL LEADERSHIP
The National Association of Oil and Energy Service Professionals( OESP), an organization comprising hundreds of dedicated industry professionals in the Northeast, announced the winners of its 2024- 25 industry awards at the annual Eastern Energy Expo in Atlantic City, NJ.
“ OESP has the tremendous benefit of countless volunteers who are committed to advancing the association, as well as the entire industry,” said Matt Spink of Platinum Energy Group, East Meadow, NY, chair of the OESP Awards Committee.“ These individuals represent the best in our industry this year, and it is our privilege to bestow these national awards for their excellence and dedication.”
“ I couldn’ t be prouder to be part of an organization that’ s home to such dedicated, passionate professionals,” said Bob O’ Brien, President of OESP.“ Our award winners exemplify the values and spirit of service that define our industry, and it’ s an honor to celebrate their outstanding contributions.” The winners include:
• Ralph Adams Memorial Service Manager of the Year: Marty Briganti, Standard Oil, Monroe, CT
• Hugh W. McKee Memorial Award: Steve Schwanger, Schwanger Bros, Lancaster, PA
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Bruce Graham, retired, Joppa, MD
• Instructor of the Year: Alan Wornham, R. W. Beckett Corporation, Auburn, MA
• Lou Ehrich Memorial Associate of the Year Award: Justin Romano, Guaranteed Home Improvement, Plainview, NY
• Manufacturer of the Year: Resideo, accepted by Thomas Melillo, Golden Valley, MN
• Distinguished Service Award: Gary Cooperrider, R. W. Beckett Corporation, Elyria, OH Learn more about OESP at ThinkOESP. org.
The National Association of Oil and Energy Service Professionals( OESP) serves the energy needs of Northeast America. Our members, comprising leading energy service professionals, share ideas and information about technical and managerial procedures to improve the quality of customer service. The OESP supports students, instructors, technicians and management level executives, in addition to the small business owner.
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