MHM Blog
August 3rd, 2022
Short and long-term low emission alternatives for red diesel

From 1st April, the entitlement to use red diesel will be far more restrictive, with higher costs for those affected by the changes.

The UK construction sector has already seen five climate-related regulatory changes in the last 12 months, all coming with specific tax increases at a time when price rises are already hitting a record high. During this uncertain period, there is no better time to choose greener alternatives that are beneficial not only for the planet but also to help cut rising costs elsewhere.

In this article, MHM discusses red diesel and looks at alternative options available.

Why can we no longer access red diesel?

In an effort to meet carbon reduction and air quality targets, the UK Government will begin to tax users at the standard rate for diesel to reflect the impact of related emissions. This change gives a further reason for businesses to look again at introducing cleaner fuel alternatives, such as HVO fuel or solar-powered solutions.

While many have been trying to run down their existing stocks of red diesel ahead of the April deadline, others will have incurred added costs for its removal, purchasing additional tanks, vehicles or equipment, or by sourcing alternatives before the deadline.

What will be the consequence of using the diesel after the deadline?

It has been suggested the Government will start spot checks on-site and those that are non-compliant could face a large fine.

Many have petitioned the UK Government to delay the reform of red diesel. It has been indicated that firms could become insolvent because of the cost of the fuel, with no other rebated fuel entitlements being granted to the construction industry in place of red diesel. There are, however, alternatives that could help.

What are the alternatives?

·      HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil)

HVO is a premium quality fuel made from 100% renewable raw materials and can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 90% when likened with fossil-fuel diesel. Every 1,000 litres of diesel burned produces 3.6 tonnes of greenhouse gas (GHG) CO2 compared to just 195kg GHG CO2 for every 1,000 litres of HVO burned.

HVO fuel can be safely stored for up to 10 years whereas regular diesel, even under ideal conditions, can only be stored between six and 12 months. It can also reduce the possibility of fuel contamination, breakdowns, and fuel testing. Tests have indicated that HVO fuel provides better starting, cleaner combustion and consequently offers less chance of waxing and water retention in extreme temperatures.

MHM’s solution: As of 2021, all our diesel-powered machinery, principally generators and lighting towers, are now fully compatible, approved and safe for use with HVO fuel.

·      Solar Power

Solar power, one of the most commonly known renewable energy sources available, is increasingly used for powering houses, offices and other buildings, and can have broader applications. For example, there is often no reason why industries that are struggling to lower their emissions can’t use it for outdoor lighting.

MHM Solution: Recognising this, MHM Group launched a new sustainable initiative, MHM Eco, that offers lower-emission solutions to the plant hire and construction sectors. The Street-Lite lighting tower is a key product in MHM Eco’s range. It was developed to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption at depots across the UK. Designed with lorry parks and walkways in mind, the diminutive Street-Lite is very simple to use and set up.

How MHM can help:

As a leading supplier of a range of sustainable equipment, including solar hybrid generators and lighting towers, the MHM Group has launched a new eco initiative that offers lower-emission solutions to the plant hire and construction sectors.

MHM continues to increase its hire fleet, with more than 30% of our equipment being solar and battery hybrid machines, as part of a comprehensive approach to a sustainable future. The MHM Group is here to support those industries affected and help with the transition from red diesel, and beyond.

If you require further product information, please contact us on 08081 689 099.