Installed in December 1993, the Fuel Oil Tank Farm supplies #2 fuel oil (diesel fuel) to the Central Power Station and gasoline and diesel for use by University-owned vehicles and equipment.  The farm consists of three 30,000-gallon tanks that supply the Central Power Station and two smaller tanks that supply diesel and gasoline fuel pumps.  These tanks were installed when the Central Power Station switched from reliance on hog fuel and #6 fuel oil (Bunker C Oil) to natural gas (which is supplied directly from a pipeline).  This transition allowed the Central Power Station to lower costs, improved efficiency, and provide for a reduced environmental impact.

The Central Power Station uses #2 fuel oil to drive two 750 kw standby generators.  In the event of a power failure, one of the generators is used to maintain power to critical facilities throughout campus, while the second generator is used to restart and maintain operations at the Central Power Station.  Although the two boilers operated by the Central Power Station are primarily fueled by natural gas, they are capable of operating on #2 fuel oil.  Should there be a shortage of natural gas or there is an unforseen shutdown of the distribution system, the boilers will continue to operate using the alternate fuel stored in these tanks.