GREENSBORO -- A new project at one of Greensboro's tanker farms could make it easier for drivers to have access to biodiesel fuel. Petroleum Fuel Terminal will upgrade one of its tanks to make it ready to hold and distribute the alternative fuel, a first of its kind in North Carolina.

To keep the tanks in city trucks full, the city of Greensboro ships in a biodiesel blend from Raleigh. At $3 a gallon, the city saves nearly 70 cents per gallon over traditional diesel.

“We've been using biodiesel since 2002. We use it in all of our diesel-powered equipment from dump trucks, to garbage trucks to backhoes, anything with a diesel engine,” explained Gary Smith, the city of Greensboro fleet manager.

But now Smith could have more options when he buys biodiesel for the city's vehicles. That's because one of Greensboro’s tanker farms will retrofit a storage tank to hold biodiesel fuel.

“We are very excited about the potential for this to not only provide for more widespread distribution of the renewable fuel, biodiesel, but also to reduce transportation-related emissions in this critical area,” Anne Tazewell, program manager for the N.C. Solar Project, said.

Tazewell adds that storing the biofuel in Greensboro will make it easier for more people across the state to start using the alternative fuel. Plus, there's an added bonus for drivers.

“They’ll also be installing lines so that you can dial a blend essentially,” Tazewell added. “Because one of the beauties of biodiesel is that we call it pour and go technology. You don't need any kind of special vehicle other than a diesel engine, and it can be blended in any amount with petroleum diesel.”

In the end, that could mean possible savings for Greensboro.

“I’m hoping that the availability of a local supplier should be able to get the word out about what biodiesel is, and actually, hopeful cut down on some of the transportation costs involved in transporting biodiesel,” Smith said.

The project is expected to cost around $250,000. The N.C. Solar Project awarded a grant for $150,000 of that cost. World Energy Alternative will partner with Petroleum Fuel Storage and add another $100,000 toward the project.