METRONET trials green fuel for heavy machinery
In a first for Western Australia’s construction industry and a win for the global goal of a net zero emissions future, the METRONET Byford Rail Extension is trialling the use of renewable diesel to help reduce its carbon footprint.
Known as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), the renewable diesel is made from waste fats and vegetable oils and is replacing regular diesel typically used to run four pieces of onsite plant and equipment.
The project is using 23,000L of traditional diesel with HVO, which is expected to produce 95% fewer CO2 emissions and less noxious gases, all while delivering the same performance as regular diesel.
Challenges and outcomes
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.
The HVO trial is being run with Curtin University who will undertake studies to understand implications for fuel efficiency, emission reduction and impacts to engines.
Next steps
The data captured will be provided to the Department of Transport to show the viability of HVO fuel for current and future infrastructure projects, and to help build the case for wider industry use once WA supply of HVO is available in 2025/26.
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Laing O'Rourke Byford Rail Extension