Dutch predict great future for LNG trucks

LNG-trucksThe introduction of LNG (liquefied natural gas) as an alternative, cleaner fuel for road transport, inland waterway transport and coastal shipping is expected to bring an extra 2.7 billion euros in economic growth and 8,000 man years between now and 2030, in the Netherlands. The development of LNG is therefore of strategic importance to the Dutch transport sector. It offers the Netherlands opportunities to reinforce its gas hub position and to boost investments and create new jobs.

These are the conclusions of a survey that was conducted by PwC on the instructions of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, as part of the ‘Rhine and Wadden Green Deal’. The Green Deal involves a partnership between the government and business as well as research and educational institutes, aiming to promote green growth. Today, the National LNG Platform evaluated the results and presented new initiatives. One year after the start of the Green Deal, the new LNG chain is up and running:

Seven LNG fuelling stations are operationaland little more than 100 LNG trucks are on the road. Two LNG inland vessels are in service and one small-scale LNG tanker ship is in service. A bunkering station for ships is operational. Rotterdam is the first European port to introduce LNG legislation.

In the area of environmental considerations, there are opportunities and challenges as well. Starting from 2014 (road transport) and 2015 (coastal traffic), the transport sector will be confronted with tightened regulations aimed at substantial emissions reductions. LNG is potentially cleaner and quieter than other types of fuel. The National LNG Platform is currently conducting talks with a number of ecological and environmental protection organizations in order to reach agreements to ensure that the use of LNG as a transport fuel will contribute optimally to the greenification of heavy transport in the Netherlands.

Recently, 25 new Iveco trucks fuelled by LNG hit the road to conduct transportation tasks in supermarket supply (see picture). Other truck brands working on LNG trucks are Scania, Volvo and Mercedes-Benz.

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