Market & Supply 25

Opinion

UKIFDA urges UK Government to reconsider red diesel entitlement deadline

The consultation, which closed on 1 October 2020, called for views on whether its intended removal of the entitlement to use red diesel from April 2022 except in agriculture, rail and non-commercial heating, has overlooked any exceptional reasons why other sectors should be allowed to continue to use red diesel after this date. Tony Brown, UKIFDA technical manager, comments; “As always, we support tackling climate change and finding ways to meet the UK’s net zero targets. “The proposal to remove the entitlement to use red diesel from all but a select few sectors in less than two years could have adverse impact on business, the economy and, ultimately, the consumer – after all, new technology may not be fully operational in that time frame.” UKIFDA believes the changes to the legislation of red diesel could impact not only consumers and fuel distribution suppliers but also primary users with those impacted including the construction industry, pleasure craft industry, refrigeration transport and users of back-up generators such as hospitals, data centres and schools. “Curbing the use of red diesel in such a short amount of time would impose immediate additional tax of significant value for many industries – and in industries that are already operating on reduced margins due to Covid-19 restrictions and competition in the markets,” adds Tony. “This would likely result in businesses having to pass the extra costs onto consumers. There would also be cashflow issues for fuel distributors and additional unnecessary and burdensome administration for fuel distributors if the proposals in this consultation come to fruition.” When it comes to the sectors excluded from the proposed removal of entitlement to use red diesel from April 2022, UKIFDA is largely in agreement. UKIFDA chief executive Guy Pulham comments; “We lobbied the government ahead of the Budget 2020 and are pleased agriculture will maintain the current entitlement. We are, however, happy to sit with government, the NFU and other interested parties, and plan a transition towards low carbon fuel in a time frame that meets net zero and maintains food production too. “With regard to non-commercial heating being excluded, red diesel has a very limited use for domestic heating and the main fuel used in the UK is kerosene. “We are, however, against abolishing the tax rebates on heating oil, currently being considered by government, as any increase in fuel bills will hit the most vulnerable homeowners the hardest. Penalising households with higher energy bills won’t incentivise them to change either. “Instead, UKIFDA is keen for the government to consider liquid biofuels as a low carbon alternative to heating oil and urges investment in the UK biofuels sector – industry analysis shows that sustainable, low carbon liquid fuels could be produced in sufficient volume in the UK, and with the added benefit of creating investment and green job opportunities. “Whilst we are pleased certain sectors have been excluded, especially agriculture, we urge the government to consider the impact its proposed changes will have on other sectors. For example, hospitals and schools may well have taken advantage of the recent cheaper fuel prices and bought large stocks of red diesel – stocks that could last far beyond the April 2022 deadline and the loss of which would adversely impact those organisations. “It is for this and many other reasons that a phased approach that incorporates working with UKIFDA and the relevant trade associations in all sectors could lead to the use of low carbon fuel in low carbon technology plant equipment – and in a time frame that suits net zero whilst maintaining industry growth and enterprise, and protects organisations from potentially devastating financial losses. “April 2022 is a tight deadline given that the high cost of electric vehicles is a barrier to switching to non-diesel vehicles and machinery.” Tony Brown concludes; “We urge the government to reconsider its proposed deadline for removing the entitlement to use red diesel except in agriculture, rail and for non-commercial heating. “We fully support the need to improve air quality and cut carbon emissions but believe the attainment of net zero targets needs a phased approach – one that considers the needs of all sectors as well as consumers. “We want to work with government to devise a plan that both removes the entitlement to use red diesel and enables industries to switch to a low carbon alternative as soon as possible – and in a way that supports business.”  

Opinion

Business and energy minister backs winter fuel readiness campaign

UK minister for business, energy and clean growth, Kwasi Kwarteng MP, has this week announced his support for UKIFDA’s ‘Get Winter Ready’ campaign. Minister Kwarteng said; “With colder months on the way, it is crucial that households relying on oil and liquefied petroleum gas for their heating are prepared, so I am fully supporting this ‘Get Winter Ready’ campaign. “As the global coronavirus pandemic continues to have an impact on everyday life, it is more important than ever to get prepared and stay warm and safe this winter.” Guy Pulham, UKIFDA chief executive adds; “It is our hope that this campaign will help and encourage the 1.5m UK households who have oil heating to take winter readiness measures. Oil is currently the cheapest form of heating so it’s worth ensuring you have enough to last the whole winter. “Due to COVID 19 and more local lockdowns being enforced we particularly want to encourage those who are aged 75+, who use oil to heat their homes to get winter ready and in particular sign up to the Cold Weather Priority (CWP) scheme, an initiative designed to help prevent excess winter deaths. “The CWP initiative is industry-led and was created in full consultation with, and fully supported by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). It has been designed to enable our UKIFDA member heating oil suppliers to identify those most vulnerable so they can ensure deliveries are prioritised for them when there are supply shortages or the weather is extremely cold.” UKIFDA membership manager Dawn Shakespeare adds; “The elderly are most at risk during the winter months as cold homes can be so destructive for individuals. Being cold can cause various health problems, increasing blood pressure or reducing the immune system and putting people at greater risk of respiratory illnesses. With Coronavirus an added risk, it is vital the elderly keep warm this winter. “With the CWP scheme, our member suppliers can identify those most at risk from the cold and take proactive steps to prioritise deliveries to them, ensuring they have enough fuel to stay warm throughout winter. A warm house is key in the fight against excess winter deaths. “It costs nothing to be part of the CWP initiative and you only need to ask your local UKIFDA Member oil distributor who supplies your heating oil and they will help. Similarly, if you have elderly neighbours or friends who also use heating oil to heat their homes, encourage them to sign up and stay warm all winter. Some Members have also temporarily extended this scheme to offer priority delivery to those in the age bracket 70+ and where possible those who must self-isolate due to COVID 19.” UKIFDA has advice on its website about taking winter readiness measures and ordering heating oil during the pandemic which can be found here and to find out more about the Cold Weather Priority, visit https://ukifda.org/cold-weather-priority-initiative/.    

News

Essar strengthens ASDA relationship with new deal

Essar Oil UK, which owns and operates the Stanlow Refinery, has today announced a new agreement with ASDA for the supply of petrol and diesel in the Midlands. ASDA has an existing contract to lift road transport fuels direct from the Road Terminal at Stanlow. The new agreement, however, is the first time that the retail giant will source products from Essar’s Kingsbury Terminal, close to Birmingham. Mark Amor, head of marketing and logistics at Essar commented; “We are delighted to strengthen further our relationship with a company as large as ASDA. Over the past few years, we have worked closely with them to service their customer needs by supplying high quality products from our Stanlow Refinery. We have now signed an agreement to provide part of their retail mix from our facilities at Kingsbury to support their business in the region.” He added; “The strategic 2019 acquisition of Midlands’ based distribution assets from multi-national BP, which included the Kingsbury and Northampton Terminals, expanded our logistics infrastructure network. This has enabled us to capture additional opportunities, such as this new deal with ASDA, and will underpin our further commercial and marketing growth in the UK.”  

News

The Prax Group acquires Total oil terminal

Harvest Energy Marine, a member of the Prax Group of companies, has announced its acquisition of the Total Zeebrugge Depot in Belgium. The Prax Group has worked closely with Total Belgium over the last few months to ensure the smooth acquisition of the terminal. The facility will be re-branded as Prax Terminals Belgium, with Harvest Energy Marine managing all bunkering and commercial operations performed at the terminal. With a 20,000 cubic metre capacity, the Prax Group will use the terminal for the storage of marine bunker fuels.  Its strategic location in the outer port of Zeebrugge means the company can cater to many customers throughout North West Europe, including car carriers, cruise ships, container lines and RORO vessels, offering ship owners and operators a minimum turnaround time in one of the world’s busiest ports. The terminal is ideally situated to enable the Prax Group to focus on its strategic plans to expand its presence in northwestern European coastal waters. Sanjeev Kumar, CEO of the Prax Group, said; “I am delighted to announce the acquisition of the terminal in the port of Zeebrugge, which reflects our strategic objective to move into a new stage of accelerated investment, growth and development.  This acquisition demonstrates our proactive approach to the ever-changing needs of our customers in the marine fuels environment and our commitment to build a robust and reliable supply chain to meet those needs.  It is the natural evolution in our progression towards making Harvest Energy Marine a leading player in the global marine market.” Geert Boden, general manager of Harvest Energy Marine, said; “As we continue to serve customers from right across the north west of the continent, it is imperative for us to maintain the strong brand reputation and high standards of safety, supply and service for which we are known.  The acquisition of the terminal in Zeebrugge means that Harvest Energy Marine is readily able to adapt to the changes in the current bunkering market.  We are in a great place to respond to the requirements of our customers, both new and existing, in order to continue to deliver innovative solutions to reduce refueling times, whilst providing customers with their most important resource.”    

News

Fuel cell technology develops lower emission fuel solutions for ships

Partners from shipping, R&D and oil and gas are constructing a pilot system for ships, to allow them to use different types of fuel. New and flexible fuel cell technology makes way for different types of fuel including green ammonia and LNG and can reduce emissions from shipping by 40 to 100%. With this flexibility, vessels can choose fuel according to availability.

News

Moove Fuels division to continue as fuel supplier to Heathrow

Airport Energy Services, a division of Moove Fuels, announces its reappointment as a ground fuel supplier to Heathrow Airport Ltd. Geoff Hall, general manager, Airport Energy Services, commented; “We are delighted to have renewed our long-standing relationship with Heathrow Airport and look forward to continuing to service Heathrow and the wider airport business community.” “This contract renewal demonstrates our commitment to continued investment in the UK’s airports and our intention to play our part in supporting the recovery of this vital sector from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.” added Darren Borras, business unit director, Moove Fuels. Providing a specialised ground fuel management service for over 20 years, Airport Energy Service’s 24/7 refuelling service is designed to meet the specific demands of the unique airport environment and the companies operating within.      

News

John Carey brings invaluable experience to new role at GripHero

GripHero has appointed former BP and ADNOC senior executive John Carey as chairman. The move comes as GripHero looks to meet increased demand for safe, convenient and environmentally friendly hand-protection at forecourts and fuel stations globally. GripHero’s internationally patented hand-protection system is ATEX-certified and anti-static, allowing it to be fitted on fuel pump handles, which improves convenience and – combined with its single item release system – removes waste. With a plastic and carbon footprint over 70% lower than standard gloves, GripHero has been independently verified as the greenest product of its type on the market.

News

CLH to become leading bulk liquid logistics company in Europe

CLH has entered into agreement with Inter Pipeline Ltd to acquire the liquid product storage facilities of its subsidiary, Inter Terminals, in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany and the Netherlands. After Inter Pipeline put the sale of their storage terminal on hold at the start of this year, the transaction is expected to complete in the fourth quarter of 2020, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Through this transaction, a further 15 liquid product storage terminals will be added to CLH’s current network, making the company the leader in Europe with operations in 8 countries. The chairman of CLH, José Luis López de Silanes, stated that; “This agreement represents a unique opportunity to continue the company’s international expansion and consolidate its presence in the European market”. CLH’s chief executive officer, Jorge Lanza, added; “This transaction will expand CLH’s knowledge on chemical products and biofuel storage by gaining the experience of a European leader in these business segments. It is also in line with CLH’s strategy of diversification beyond hydrocarbons in response to the challenges of climate change.” “CLH is acquiring a high-quality business with an outstanding team who have made an important contribution to the success and growth of Inter Pipeline over the past 15-years,” stated Christian Bayle, president and chief executive officer of Inter Pipeline. The 11 UK terminals included in the agreement have a capacity of more than 2 million cubic metres and can store a wide range of liquid products related to a number of supply chains including diverse chemical products, as well as traditional fuels and biofuels. Integrating these terminal facilities in the United Kingdom offers an excellent complement to CLH-PS, the CLH Group subsidiary already operating in the country. In addition, the agreement also includes one terminal in Ireland, where CLH already operates at the Dublin airport through its subsidiary CLH Aviation Ireland, plus two more in Germany and one in the Netherlands. The Inter Terminals businesses in the scope of the agreement currently have a workforce of 530 highly experienced and technically qualified employees and CLH is committed to ensure facilities continue to be operated under the highest levels of safety and quality conditions.  

News

StocExpo celebrate industry talent with forty under 40

StocExpo, the world’s leading bulk liquid storage event, is searching for the industry’s most dynamic professionals under the age of 40. The new initiative will celebrate the next generation of individuals operating at the top of their game in the tank storage, bulk liquid and linked supply chain professions. Professionals working in the industry are encouraged to self-nominate if they are under 40. There is also the option to nominate eligible colleagues that are making a significant contribution to the sector. Mark Rimmer, StocExpo divisional director, comments; “Attracting and retaining the next generation of talent is absolutely critical when it comes to the long-term success of the tank storage industry. It’s where the industry’s future ideas, innovation, inspiration and leaders will all come from. “That’s why we are so proud to be launching our Forty Under 40 initiative. We want to celebrate & support the next generation of talent within the industry and showcase their contribution so far. So, if you know someone who merits being recognised, or you are that person, we want to hear from you.” Entrants will be judged by a panel of industry experts looking for individuals who, thanks to their excellence and commitment, are making a real difference to their organisation and the wider industry. The successful 40 will be celebrated with a drink’s reception held in their honour at StocExpo 2021, taking place 16th – 18th March. All will be provided with special VIP passes, providing free access to the event’s conference programme and other exclusive zones, such as the VIP lounge. On top of this, the 40 will be invited to participate in all of StocExpo’s “Next Gen” related content and activities. The 40 will also be offered half price tickets to the 2021 Global Tank Storage Awards and will be celebrated on stage in recognition of their achievement. Entries close 20 November. To find out more about StocExpo or to nominate yourself or a colleague, visit https://www.stocexpo.com/en/forty-under-40/  

News

Greenergy agrees to acquire Amber Petroleum

Greenergy has agreed to purchase 100% of the shares of Amber Petroleum (‘Amber’), an independent fuel distributor and retailer based in the Republic of Ireland. Amber’s operations include company-owned and dealer-owned forecourts, comprising a network of 35 sites around the country, along with fuels distribution and home heating depots. Christian Flach, Greenergy CEO said; “One of our key strategic objectives is to integrate our existing supply footprint with our expanding retail presence.  The acquisition of Amber follows our recent retail investment in 230 retail sites in Canada and will enhance our capabilities in Ireland by building on our existing infrastructure, supply and retail operations. We look forward to welcoming the Amber team to Greenergy.” Liam Fitzgerald, owner and managing director of Amber Petroleum added; “Having served our loyal customers for over 40 years Amber’s success has been based on strong relationships with customers, suppliers and staff and we know that Greenergy shares these same values. I am confident that Amber will continue to grow its profile as part of the wider Greenergy organisation.” Amber’s existing management team and staff will remain in place.  

News

Certas confirms autumn opening for new HGV refuelling bunker

Certas Energy’s latest HGV refuelling bunker site at the Port of Southampton, close to Dock Gate 20, will be operational in October 2020. Working in partnership with leading port operator Associated British Ports (ABP), the HGV refuelling facility is the first of its kind to be opened inside the port. Featuring eight high-speed refuelling pumps, the facility will dispense fuel at speeds of up to 120 litres per minute. The site has been designed to service the high volume of HGVs that pass through the port each day, and will provide a quick, efficient and conveniently-located facility for port users. The new refuelling facility, adjacent to the DP World Southampton container terminal, will dispense DERV, red diesel, AdBlue and cleaner-burning diesel alternative, Shell GTL Fuel. This drop-in alternative fuel can be used immediately in HGVs to reduce harmful emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) without having to make engine or equipment modifications. Commenting on the new refuelling site, Clive Thomas, ABP Port of Southampton’s head of commercial and property, said; “We are pleased to be able to offer Shell GTL Fuel at the port for site users for the first time. This significant move supports our commitment to further improve local air quality and facilitates smoother operations for visiting HGVs.” Andrew Goodwin, national bunker manager for Certas Energy added; “The Port of Southampton is one of the UK’s key logistics hubs, handling 14 million tonnes of cargo annually and an average of 1,800 HGVs every day. Our new refuelling facility will enable lorry drivers to refuel quickly and conveniently at the port before picking up or after dropping off their load – so they can continue the rest of their journey uninterrupted. “Our site at the Port of Southampton builds on Certas Energy’s experience and success in fuelling the booming logistics sector at some of the UK’s largest ports. We are delighted to be working with ABP in delivering this scheme which aims to reduce the turnaround time at the Port of Southampton and further expand our strategy of investing in key strategic locations to support UK logistics.” The new refuelling facility located at the heart of the Port of Southampton will join Certas Energy’s network of 21 bunker sites across the UK. For more information, please visit https://certasenergy.co.uk/my-business/fuel-cards-and-bunker-sites/southampton-hgv-refuelling-site/  

News

Refresh for Phillips fuel brand in new TV campaign

The JET fuel brand has launched a dynamic new TV campaign, the first in over 20 years, that captures how JET champions the driver – providing all the essentials they need to ‘Keep On Moving’. Shot on location at the new JET Dove Retail White Rose Service Station in Barnsley and throughout the stunning Peak District National Park, the TV spot is part of JET’s ongoing brand awareness programme, designed to increase visibility and consideration amongst new and existing customers. A unique take on a classic road movie theme – the campaign film captures the journey through the eyes of the driver and features a man at a grand piano travelling through dramatic English countryside playing and singing Joe Jackson’s iconic 80s hit ‘Steppin’ Out’. He then briefly stops at a JET forecourt to refuel before hitting the road again to resume his memorable musical journey accompanied by the line: ‘Don’t let filling up slow you down’. The ‘Keep on Moving’ campaign is the latest activity in an ongoing brand refresh for JET – the fuel brand of Phillips 66. In February 2019 JET debuted a new image programme for its fuel brand including updated logos, modern forecourt image and bright LED lighting. This was followed by the rebranding of JET’s Premium Fuel offer, JET ULTRA with the relaunch of the website in early 2020. “We are continuing to invest in our brand and the growing retail business to be the best we can be for our drivers, our dealers and the local communities we serve” says Mary Wolf, managing director, UK marketing, Phillips 66 Limited. “In fine tuning the JET brand our aim is to improve the experience for our customers and to give the drivers who visit our forecourts everything they need and want to continue their journeys quickly and safely. It is a simple, straightforward ‘driver-first’ ethos that is perfectly captured in this new campaign.” The 60’’ and 30’’ TV ad will air throughout September across the Midlands and the North of England.  Other elements of the Keep On Moving campaign will be rolled out nationally on social media throughout the month.  

News

Virtual event considers future logistics

From zero-emission, alternative fuels vehicles to self-driving trucks, 5G to smart cities, the shape of logistics in the UK is set to transform dramatically in the coming decades. To give delegates an opportunity to hear from thought leaders and experts on some of these critical topics, before the main ITT Hub event and conference next year, the Logistics UK is launching Future Logistics 2020, a virtual conference and exhibition which is free to attend for all, sponsored by Brigade Electronics. To be held on 13 November 2020 on a state of the art, immersive live events platform, the one-day event will feature leading voices from across the logistics and transport sectors, who will explore the forces set to shape the industry of tomorrow, covering topics as wide ranging as fuels, data, vehicles, Brexit, communities and business strategies. As with a physical event, there will also be an extensive exhibition space for attendees to visit as well as opportunities for 1-1 networking with other delegates, sponsors and exhibitors. The event is also sponsored by the AA and Bott Ltd. David Wells, chief executive of Logistics UK, comments; “The COVID-19 pandemic has not slowed the tide of technology. Self-driving trucks, zero-emission vehicles, smart cities, and drone technology are all evolving fast and logistics professionals must be prepared to adapt to this new landscape. And, with the uncertainties of the UK’s future trading relationship with the EU – along with the long-term implications of COVID-19 – this important event will help logistics businesses understand what lies in store for logistics in the coming months and years.” Mark Griffin, CEO of ITT Hub, is excited by the prospect of the new event;  “The postponement of ITT Hub in May this year, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, meant we were unable to share the huge flagship industry conference programme we had planned. However, this new event will give our audience the opportunity to gain insights from leading names across the industry, and should whet appetites for the rescheduled ITT Hub show and full Future Logistics Conference which we have rescheduled for May next year at Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference centre. With so much innovation happening every day across transport and logistics, Future Logistics 2020 will showcase some of the developments and thinking which sets our sector apart from the rest.  It’s one not to be missed.” Future Logistics will also offer delegates the opportunity to engage with leading logistics industry suppliers online in the Exhibition Hall. Visitors will be able to download brochures, thought leadership content and whitepapers showcasing the latest technical innovations; they are also free to ask exhibitors questions via text or video chat. ITT Hub, an industry led event showcasing the best in transport innovation and technology, has been postponed to 12 and 13 May 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information on the event, due to be held at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, please visit  www.itthub.co.uk. To book your place at Future Logistics 2020 please visit logistics.org.uk/future-logistics

News

Clugston expands fleet with Cobo tankers

Clugston Distribution Services Ltd is adding 15 new Cobo 42,000 litre fuel tankers to its growing and expanding fleet with the manufacturer equipping Clugston with new tankers for bulk fuel transportation. Providing road tanker transport solutions to the bulk powder and bulk fuel sectors, Clugston has already received some of the new tankers which are ready to have their familiar blue liveries added in the paint shop before hitting the road. Specialising in aluminium tanks for transport of hydrocarbons, as well as stainless steel vehicles for transportation of other products, Cobo vehicles merge experience, technology and quality. Product capabilities include motor spirit, diesel, ethanol, bio diesel, bio ethanol, aviation fuel (kerosene), gas oil, marine gas oil, fuel oils and other liquid chemicals.  

Opinion

Fuel duty rise ‘a blow to economic recovery’

Speaking in response to rumours circulating of a potential fuel duty rise, Elizabeth de Jong, director of policy at Logistics UK, comments; “Logistics UK and its members are extremely concerned by rumours circulating of a significant fuel duty rise in the Autumn Budget. Logistics businesses have worked tirelessly during the pandemic to ensure the nation is supplied with all the goods and services it needs, all while operating at very tight margins and facing severe economic difficulties; a fuel duty rise would be a huge blow to their recovery. “The 5p per litre rise – as is speculated in the media – would increase operating costs significantly at a time when margins are most stretched and cash flow is a real problem for many businesses; the UK already pays one of the highest fuel duty rates in Europe. Logistics UK is calling for a freeze on diesel and petrol fuel duty, in addition to a reduction in fuel duty for cleaner, lower carbon fuels to support the transition to a zero-emission industry.”

News

Watson Fuels opens state-of-the-art Kent depot

Keen to reach more homes and businesses across the South East, Watson Fuels has opened a new depot in Headcorn, Kent. It joins Watson Fuels’ network of nearly 35 depots across the UK which, together, offer national reach combined with the friendly local service Watson Fuels customers have come to expect for over 60 years. The Headcorn depot replaces an existing facility in Hawkhurst, Kent, and brings with it greater capacity to serve more customers. Through this new purpose-built depot, Watson Fuels is now able to take on new customers in the area and can serve homes and businesses in even the most rural locations across the South East. “Kent has excellent road links, one of the UK’s busiest ports in Dover, and hundreds of fantastic rural businesses,” Scott Roberts – operations & logistics director at Watson Fuels explains. “It makes sense for us to invest in the area – a location that remains key to both national and local industry. Our new depot enables us to reach more customers across the region, helping businesses and families in the South East to manage their fuel supply easily and cost-effectively.” “I am delighted to be in a position to confirm the new site at Headcorn, Kent is now fully operational. The new site further supports our desire to be our customers’ number one choice in Kent.  And, for our colleagues, the new site investment demonstrates our commitment to them ensuring they have the facilities to operate safely and efficiently as we grow our business further.” The new Headcorn depot marks the latest in a series of operational investments by Watson Fuels. In the last 18 months, the distributor has opened a new facility in Grangemouth – the first Watson depot in Scotland – and a new operational location in East London, as well as improving the tank infrastructure and capacity within a number of existing depot and office locations. Watson has also been modernising its 350-strong fleet of tankers and will have replaced over 30% of the fleet with brand-new vehicles before the end of 2021. The investments are key steps in making sure that, as Watson Fuels’ services grow, it continues to stay reliable, offering customers a cost-effective, efficient and dependable service.  

News

Creative solution for scaring seagulls

With rig operating firms losing hundreds of thousands of pounds a day every time work is halted to clean up seagull droppings, as well as the risk posed to helicopters by the birds, an effective solution was desperately needed. The answer to this age-old problem has seemingly been found in the reinvention of an age-old invention with hi-tech solar powered scarecrows now being used by North Sea oil chiefs to scare away seagulls.  As well as firing lasers, the £10,000 mannequins also play bird noises to deter the gulls when sensors are triggered. One employee, who has worked on the rig for 30 years said; “I’ve spent half my life up there and I know how big a problem the birds are. “They are unbelievable. Loads of things have been tried over the years but nothing’s worked like this. It is a game changer. It eradicated the problem.” The aim of these state-of-the-art scarecrows, says creator Terry Christie, is to stop seagulls pooping on rigs and avoid potentially deadly collisions with helicopters heading for offshore platforms. Terry’s Scaretech Global firm, based in Colchester, is now in talks to install the devices on two oil firm HQs in Aberdeen, and hopes to expand to North Sea platforms.    

Opinion

UKIFDA encourages homeowners to begin transition to biofuels

In a campaign launched by UKIFDA, the 114,000 households across Wales which use oil heating are being advised on a plan to decarbonise the heating in their homes through the use of liquid biofuels. UKIFDA is working with trade associations within the liquid fuels supply chain to lobby the UK government to develop a transition that enables consumers not connected to the gas grid to cut their carbon emissions through a series of planned steps, rather than one major heating system change. Biofuels would allow off-grid homes to switch to a more environmentally friendly fuel with lower carbon emissions straightaway, with a view to fully transition over time. Importantly though, there will be minimum disruption to households as they can continue to use a liquid fuel form of heating without making large scale changes to their home heating.