Incentivise biomethane supply for freight transport - FTA16 December 2013

The FTA (Freight Transport Association) says government needs to adopt better "joined-up thinking" if it is to encourage biomethane suppliers to produce gas for gas and dual-fuel trucks in the freight transport sector.

Earlier this month, the DfT (Department for Transport) launched a call for evidence on advanced fuels that can offer advantages over first generation biofuels. Biomethane, from waste, was identified as a transport fuel that offers greenhouse gas emission savings relative to diesel of around 80%.

However, government policies, such as the Renewable Heat Incentive, provide a much greater incentive for biomethane producers to inject into the grid for electricity and heating, rather than being further upgraded for use as a transport fuel.

"There are limited options for the freight sector to decarbonise, particularly for vehicles on long trunking operations where electrification is not viable," comments Rachael Dillon, FTA climate change policy manager.

"It is therefore vital that government recognises the value of biomethane and offers producers incentives to ensure that the freight transport sector will have a sufficient supply."

And she adds: "In light of the chancellor's decision to secure the duty differential rate for gas until 2024, there is now more certainty for fleet operators to invest in gas-fuelled vehicles.

"We now need to ensure that there is a joined-up approach across government in order for biomethane supplies to be secured for the sector."

Author
Laura Cork

Related Companies
Freight Transport Association Ltd

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