Recommendations that will boost the use of gas in heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) were today published [13 Mar] by the Department for Transport (DfT), following approval by the DfT’s Low Emission HGV Task Force working group which ADBA sat on.
The recommendations include:
- Reviewing the case for allowing recognition for the certified use of biomethane as a transport fuel in carbon reporting
- Reviewing the range of fiscal incentives for methane, biomethane and other fuel options, including support under the RTFO
- Supporting discussion with DECC, Defra and CLG on waste policy with a view to removing potential barriers to biomethane supply capacity for freight transport use
- Supporting the establishment of a strategic network of gas refuelling infrastructure, taking account of potential demand from freight operators and other users and the mix of LNG and CNG vehicles in operation
Welcoming the news ADBA chief executive Charlotte Morton said:
“It is excellent news that government has now agreed to recognise biomethane certificates in carbon reporting. This is a welcome continuation of the government’s support in the Autumn Statement for gas and biomethane vehicles, seen in the extension of the fuel duty differential between diesel and gas for 10 years, helping to give certainty to the sector and drive market development and innovation.
“ADBA is also pleased that the task force recommended government commitment to working across departments to ensure the RTFO effectively incentivises direct use of biomethane in vehicles, and that there will be discussions with DECC, Defra and CLG on how waste policy can better ensure biomethane supply.
“Biomethane from biogas is one of the few options for decarbonising heavy goods vehicles. The government must ensure that the momentum gained in the gas vehicle market is maintained and that RTFO support reaches parity with RHI so that direct use of biomethane in transport is effectively incentivised. Separate food waste collections also need to be properly considered to maximise supply of biomethane.”
