The Alternative Fuel Labelling and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Regulations 2019 (SI 2019/421)

Comes into force: 22nd March 2019 - Regulation 22
1st April 2020 - Regulations 5, 6, 14(2) and 14(3)
1st September 2019 - the remainder of these Regulations

These Regulations implement a common set of labels and identifiers for common transport fuels in the UK.

As the range of fuels available increases, there is a need to implement a standardised labelling system that allows consumers to easily identify different fuels to assist reduce mis-fueling and encourage the uptake of alternative transport fuels.

The same labels will be implemented across the EU.

Each fuel type has one or more identifier to be used on the label. Rules are set out on what the identifiers should look like and how obligated parties should ensure they incorporate them into labels that consumers can use to identify different transport fuels.

Duties

• Fuel retailers - From 1st September 2019 fuel retailers must use the labels on refuelling points.
• Vehicle manufacturers - From 1st April 2020 vehicle manufacturers must place the relevant label on the vehicle’s fuel filler cap and provide information in the manual on the type of alternative fuel that the vehicle can use.
• Vehicle dealers - Dealers must ensure they provide clear information to customers at the time of sale or lease.

Enforcement - If a person is found to be non-compliant with these requirements, they will be given an opportunity to correct the issue. If it is not resolved, then civil penalties can be issued up to a maximum of £100 per vehicle / manual or £500 per fuel dispenser.

Amendments

The Alternative Fuel Labelling and Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2019 (SI 2019/421)

This amendment allows fuel suppliers to use Upstream Emissions Reductions credits (UERs) against the 2019 interim greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction tariff.  

Previously, UERs could only be used against the EU 2020 target set out in Directive 98/70/EC2 relating to the quality of petrol and diesel fuels (the Fuel Quality Directive). This amendment allows for the use of UERs against the 2019 interim target introduced by the UK as well:

• Interim target of a reduction in GHG emissions by 4% in 2019.
• EU target of a reduction in GHG emissions by 6% in 2020.

The aim of this interim target is to allow the industry to adjust to the new requirements ahead of the 2020 compliance period.

This is done by amending the Schedule, which was inserted by The Renewable Transport Fuels and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Regulations 2018.

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