Transport Minister, Norman Baker, opened the conference by announcing a further £5m funding to help local authorities to decarbonise bus fleets. He also welcomed the launch of the Gas Vehicle Hub, a national database of operating gas (natural and biomethane) producers and refuelling stations, and confirmed that the department would continue to work with the AD industry to increase biomethane production.
Charlotte Morton, chief executive, ADBA, said: ‘It is good to see such demand for biomethane within the haulage and freight sector and a serious desire to address carbon emissions and air quality.
‘This interest should act as a strong driver for government to consider the potentially significant wider policy implications that a demand for efficient, clean and green fuel within transport could have across government in terms of both waste and bioenergy policy.’
Event speaker and co-host Andy Eastlake, managing director, LowCVP, added: ‘The Biomethane and Gas Vehicle conference demonstrated that there is a growing momentum behind biomethane. LowCVP research has shown potentially significant carbon, pollutant and financial savings are available for those willing to invest and explore this technology. We will continue to work with industry and government to deliver the real and significant opportunities available to reduce emissions and improve air quality in the challenging and fast changing, freight, HGV and bus sectors.’