A revolutionary trial has gotten underway which will see vehicles powered with vegetable oil in a bid to switch away from diesel.
The project led by National Grid Electricity Distribution is taking place across Lincolnshire and includes more than 100 vehicles.
The trial sees the vehicles switch to using Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) as a conventional diesel drop-in replacement.
The move comes as the network operator looks to promote the rollout of electric cars with HVO being considered as an alternative and “important stopgap”.
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The innovative project, based in Boston, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by using HVO in vehicles that are unable to transition to electric power.
The initiative represents a significant step forward in the company's efforts to find cleaner fuel alternatives for its extensive fleet operations. This alternative fuel solution is being implemented as an important measure while the broader electric vehicle transition continues across the UK.
HVO fuel is derived from used cooking oils, tallows and other recyclable waste materials, offering a fossil-free alternative to conventional diesel.
The vehicles in the trial cover an average monthly mileage of 1,100, demonstrating the practical application of this sustainable fuel source.
The move will allow for a direct replacement of diesel fuel, requiring no modifications to existing vehicles. The use of recycled materials in HVO production adds an additional environmental benefit, turning waste products into valuable fuel resources.
The trial has already seen environmental benefits, achieving an 89 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional diesel fuel.
This significant decrease in emissions showcases the potential of HVO as a viable solution for reducing the environmental impact of vehicles that cannot yet be electrified. The substantial emissions reduction aligns with National Grid's commitment to improving air quality and environmental conditions across Lincolnshire.
In a recent development, the company has expanded its electric fleet through a collaborative project with Skoda.
Seventy Skoda Enyaqs have been converted into light commercial vehicles with all-terrain capability, further enhancing the company's green transport options.
These electric vehicles complement the HVO initiative, creating a two-pronged approach to reducing the fleet's environmental impact.
Christopher Mayell, Transport Manager at National Grid Electricity Distribution, said: "As the country's largest distribution network operator, we have one of the largest fleets in the UK, and we are working tirelessly to deliver more electric vehicles each year where suitable alternatives exist.
"Of course, there are some vehicles where electric alternatives are simply not yet available, but our ambition is to be an industry leader in fleet decarbonisation."
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The company continues to explore innovative solutions to reduce its environmental impact while maintaining essential service operations across Lincolnshire.
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