From April 2022 the use of red diesel for most industrial applications will be banned.
Introduced as part of the UK Government’s objective to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, the move will mean that businesses falling outside of the new guidelines must instead use fuel taxed at standard rates.
To help ensure a smooth transition, exclusive Caterpillar® distributor Finning UK & Ireland has launched a Fuel Compliance Kit.
The new legislation is intended to reduce the commercial use of red diesel, meaning that industries including demolition, quarrying, construction, and waste will have to turn to other options such as unrebated white diesel or alternative fuels. Whilst there is no chemical difference between white and red diesel, those making the switch will need to make sure they are fully compliant right from April 1, 2022.
This is because there will be no grace period to use up old stock, with users of vehicles and machinery losing their red diesel entitlement advised to run down their existing stock and flush out the tank and supply lines until no marked rebate fuel remains by the cut-off date.
“We understand there will be a period where companies are switching over and removing red diesel from their machines and storage tanks,” said Ian Burton, Service Development Supervisor at Finning UK & Ireland. “We can help with this switchover by checking fuel for residual traces of red diesel using our Fuel Compliance Kit.
“A sample bottle of fuel from each tank is sent to our specialist laboratory, tested and used to confirm the quantity of red diesel present (above 1-2 per cent), and if not, confirm that it meets government requirements. The Fuel Compliance kit is designed to make taking fuel samples simple for the company or operator, without the help of a service engineer.”
The Fuel Compliance kit costs £29 (+ VAT and carriage) and is available to order by calling Parts Direct on 0330 123 9211 in the UK or 01 257 4046 in the ROI. Customers can also get in touch with Stuart Keddie, National Business Manager for Fluid Monitoring and Analysis on 07736 632 183 for more information, or their usual fluid analysis contact.
