Cleaner & Greener Fuel the shape of things to come
Topaz has launched a new ‘clean fuel’ product which increases the efficiency of both petrol and diesel by 3%. The fuel uses a special additive – sourced from international chemical giant BASF – which has performed well in field trials. The fuel is safe for use in all vehicles and has been approved by the AA.
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This is one example of how technology is stepping up to the mark and answering the environmental problems associated with car use.
Cars really don’t pollute any more (lead, benzene and other pollutants are long gone) but they do produce CO2. In response to public demand and to the urgings of the European Union, car makers and oil companies are pouring millions of R & D money into making cars ever cleaner and ever greener. This is very much a welcome trend.
The Topaz fuel initiative is certainly worthwhile and it would be good to see other brands looking in similar directions. It is an area where the Irish government can help by incentivising CO2 reduction initiatives. The 3% reduction in consumption means an average car will travel an extra 640 kilometres per year. For a mid-range car (band C for tax purposes) it works out as a saving of 96 kilograms of CO2 annually*.
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These initiatives add up to a real contribution. Technology is steadily reducing the carbon footprint of the car. Developments in ultra lean-burn engines, hybrid technology, electric cars and smarter conventional fuels mean that car makers and car owners are doing their bit for CO2 reduction – a fact that we should see recognised by government in terms of taxes and incentives.
*Based on an assumed emissions rate of 150gCO2/km
Energy Minister Eamon Ryan announces Biofuel Target
While we are on the subject of fuels, Energy Minister Eamon Ryan has just published the Government’s proposed Biofuels Obligation Scheme for public consultation.
This scheme will set a percentage target of transport fuels used in the State which must consist of biofuels and sets certain conditions regarding the type of biofuels which can be counted towards that target. The Minister is adamant that the obligation will apply to fuel companies, placing no burden on the taxpayer. It will be a key component in achieving the EU target of 10% penetration of renewable energy in transport by 2020. The Government remains committed to this target.
The consultation document proposes a target of 4% by volume of transport fuel by 2010, equating to 3% by energy. It attaches an important condition; the biofuels must come from sustainable sources.
A big criticism of biofuels is that they are a carbon problem in themselves. It is clearly ridiculous to have swathes of rainforest cut down to grow biofuel, but it does have potential from sustainable resources.
The scheme now faces an 8 week consultation period and his office is open to suggestions. The full consultation document can be viewed at: http://www.dcenr.gov.ie/Energy/Sustainable+and+Renewable+Energy+Division/Biofuels+Obligation+Scheme.htm