what is red fuel?
Red fuel is a diesel based gas oil which is specifically formulated for use in equipment other than road vehicles, and often used in agricultural and construction machinery. Red fuel is a more economical alternative to regular diesel and is exempt from the same environmental regulations. This exemption allows its use in engines that may not be as efficient as those in passenger cars. In the UK, red diesel is also referred to as “rebated gas oil.”.
Beyond its application in agricultural and construction machinery, red diesel is frequently utilised for heating non-commercial premises, backup generators, ships, boats, railways, digging machines, snow ploughs, gritters, road rollers, and other non-road vehicle purposes. Although the use of red diesel has declined in recent years, it still currently makes up around 15% of the total diesel use in the UK.
what types of generators are there?
Generators come in various types, each designed for specific purposes and applications. However, there are two main types of generators, Diesel and Petrol.
Diesel generators use a diesel engine to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. The diesel engine functions as the main component driving the generator. It ignites diesel fuel in the combustion chamber to generate mechanical energy.
Petrol generators however, is a portable power generation device that runs on petrol as its fuel source. They are are equipped with an internal combustion engine that runs on petrol. This engine is responsible for converting the chemical energy in petrol into mechanical energy, which is then used to generate electricity.
Choosing the right type of generator depends on factors such as the intended application, power requirements, fuel availability, and environmental considerations.
Can you use red fuel in a generator?
In the UK, red diesel usage is subject to specific regulations regarding its use in generators. In the past, red fuel has been used to power stationary engines, including generators, for non-commercial purposes, such as heating and power generation in agriculture.
However, as of April 2022, there has been a change in regulations regarding the use of red fuel in the UK. Back in 2021, the government announced plans tor remove the entitlement to use red fuel for most sectors, except for agriculture, fish farming, rail and non-commercial heating, with the legislation to come into effect on April 1st, 2022.
From this legislation, it is now illegal to use red fuel in the vast majority of UK sectors, including in machinery such as cranes, bulldozers and generators. However, if you have red fuel already in your machinery before April 2022, you may continue to use it until it runs out. After this, you will not be able to purchase more red fuel to use.
The short answer is no, unless you have a generator that was already operating on red fuel prior to April 2022. Disregard of this legislation, and the illegal use of red diesel could result in getting charged, fined or even a short prison sentence, so we wouldn’t take any chances!
how much does it cost to hire a generator?
The cost of hiring a generator can vary depending on several factors such as the size and quantity needed, the duration of the hire, and the location of your company.
Generally, The cost of hiring emergency lights range from around £100 to £200 per day and can go up to several hundred pounds per week, depending on your requirements.
Are you looking to hire a generator? Then get in touch with us today!
We have a large variety of power solutions ready for rental at a fraction of the cost of buying. See our full access equipment hire range here to see how else we can help you get the job done!
