BP invests in biomethane for HGVs

BP has acquired a 29% stake in Gasrec, the UK’s largest dual provider of bio-LNG and bio-CNG to road transport.

BP will supply Gasrec – which builds, owns and operates biomethane refuelling stations serving the heavy goods vehicle (HGV) industry – with renewable biomethane produced mainly from organic wastes, such as food and dairy manure. The investment will expand BP’s UK footprint in renewable gas production and distribution, adding to its market leading position in this sector in the US.

Gasrec was the UK’s first supplier of biomethane to the road transport sector. Its customers include some of the UK’s biggest retailers, parcel delivery companies and hauliers, including Asda, Ocado, Gregory Distribution and Reed Boardall. Its network of 10 biomethane refuelling stations across the UK is capable of refuelling approximately 1,250 vehicles per day and includes one of Europe’s largest gas refuelling stations, at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT). The company has a strong market position, currently refuelling around 40% of the UK’s gas-powered HGVs.

In the UK, road transport is reported as being responsible for 27% of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2019. HGVs represent just 5% of vehicle miles travelled, yet their associated emissions are disproportionately greater, producing around 16% of road transport emissions, according to UK government figures.

Renewable gas is an important part of the energy transition for the HGV sector, providing a commercially viable option for fleet owners to reduce their carbon footprint by up to 85% in comparison to diesel, according to the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership.

Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT)
Photo: Gasrec