Redding, California’s Redding Area Bus Authority (RABA) will now operate its entire 16-bus diesel fleet on a B20 biodiesel blend through its regular fueling program. 

The transition marks a significant step in RABA’s continued commitment to sustainability, cleaner air, and responsible environmental stewardship in Shasta County.

B20’s Impact

B20, a blend of 20% renewable biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel, is a proven, reliable, drop-in fuel that requires no engine modifications or infrastructure changes. 

Biodiesel is produced from renewable sources such as vegetable oils, animal fats, and recycled cooking oils, reducing reliance on petroleum and helping lower greenhouse-gas and particulate emissions, said agency officials. Studies show that B20 can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 15% while also decreasing particulate matter and other air pollutants.

The shift to B20 biodiesel will deliver cleaner air for Shasta County while maintaining complete reliability and performance across the RABA fleet. Riders will not see any changes in service or operations, as the use of B20 integrates seamlessly into the agency’s existing fueling process.

Through a fuel contract with Ed Staub & Sons, RABA can access biodiesel at its Redding fueling station.

“As public transportation serves as a backbone for community connectivity, it is our duty to operate responsibly and sustainably,” said RABA Transit Manager John Andoh. “Switching to B20 biodiesel is a practical, effective way for us to reduce our environmental impact while continuing to deliver dependable service to the people of Shasta County.”

RABA Working to be Cleaner, Greener

RABA will continue monitoring the performance of the biodiesel blend and will explore additional opportunities to expand its use of renewable fuels in the years ahead. This transition represents an essential milestone in RABA’s long-term commitment to supporting a cleaner, more sustainable future for the region. 

In addition, RABA owns three electric vehicles and intends to purchase more over the next seven years, as part of grants received to meet the requirements of the California Air Resources Board's Innovative Clean Transit rule, which requires all transit fleets to be zero-emission by 2040.