Fry-o-lator oil used to power trucks

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Providence restaurants and city officials combine forces to power the city's vehicles under a new, going green initiative.

More than thirty Providence city trucks are now using clean burning bio-diesel fuel, made out of left over vegetable oil from fry-o-lators. The oil is normally thrown away but now it is stored in bins outside of eateries to be picked up by Newport Bio-Diesel. The company then converts that oil into fuel.

The fuel is created using a multi-stage chemical process and is usable in any diesel engine or home furance. In addition to the environmental benefits, Newport Bio-Diesel says the fuel is priced a little cheaper than petroleum-based diesel.

Mayor David Cicilline is teaming up with Gregg's Restaurant to promote a green partnership within the city. The fuel program is just one aspect of Cicilline's Greenprint Providence Initiative, aimed at reducing global warming, pollution, and making Providence a leader in a growing green economy.

In addition to Gregg's, dozens of other restaurants are also taking part in the program.