German DENA calls more road toll exemptions for LNG trucks

LONDON (ICIS)–In late April German energy agency DENA released a position paper from the country’s LNG Taskforce calling for the extension of LNG and compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks to be exempt from highway tolls beyond 2020, after the current programme is due to end.

Since the start of 2019, gas-fuelled trucks in Germany have been exempt from road toll charges to incentivise the growth of non-diesel vehicles.

During that time 17 LNG filling stations have been built in the country, with the total set to exceed 50 by the end of the year.

The paper notes that for the development of diesel-alternative vehicles to continue there needs to be market reassurance.

One confidence-boosting measure for future investors in LNG-fuelled trucks would be to extend the current toll exemption.

The paper proposed an extension for two more years after 2020.

In addition, it suggested a toll exemption of 24 months for LNG and CNG vehicles from the moment the vehicle is put into operation.

MARKET GROWTH

The toll exemption has so far had a positive impact on the German LNG transport fuel market.

On 24 April Liqvis, a subsidiary of utility Uniper, announced the opening of another LNG filling station in Germany due to increased demand for the fuel.

Continuing to exempt LNG-fuelled trucks from road toll fees would support the growing market, while also contributing to reduced carbon emissions from transport.

LNG-fuelled trucks emit around 20% less carbon dioxide than diesel vehicles.