METRONET has launched a green fuel project for heavy machinery. Image: METRONET
The METRONET Byford Rail Extension has broken new ground by trialling renewable diesel for four pieces of on-site plant and equipment.
According to METRONET, the trial is a “first” for the Western Australian construction industry as the company attempts to reduce the project’s carbon footprint.
“Reducing emissions of heavy vehicles, rail freight, mining, agriculture, construction plant and equipment can be challenging and trials such as this aim to demonstrate the role renewable fuels can play in helping to achieve sustainability targets,” METRONET sustainability lead Alita Hancock said.
The project is using a fuel called Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) instead of regular diesel. This form of renewable diesel is made from fats, vegetable oils, and waste products.
“The project will substitute 23,000L of traditional diesel with HVO, which is expected to produce 95 per cent fewer CO2 emissions and less noxious gases, all while delivering the same performance as regular diesel,” Hancock said.
The trial is being run in conjunction with Curtain University. The University plans to study the project’s results to better understand the implications of renewable diesel for fuel efficiency, emission reduction, and engine impacts.
The data will also be presented to the Department of Transport to understand the viability of HVO fuel for current and future infrastructure projects. According to the release, the Western Australian supply of HVO is expected to be available in 2025/26.
The post METRONET launches renewable diesel project appeared first on Quarry.