Erdgas mobil gets approval to build LNG stations in Germany

Erdgas mobil, the energy industry’s initiative to establish natural gas as a fuel in Germany, achieved a model approval for the build-up of LNG filling stations.

This means LNG stations can now be constructed in Germany backed by a reliable framework.

In order to evaluate the prospects of LNG in German and European transport, erdgas mobil had organised a press conference themed “LNG – Ready for Germany” with the support of manufacturer Iveco. NGVA Europe participated in the event, as did energy provider E.ON, which is offering LNG in Germany under the brand ‘Liqvis’.

“So far, the vague approval process was a major hurdle for the construction of stationary LNG fueling stations. This problem has now been solved,” explained Timm Kehler, CEO of erdgas mobil. “Vehicles, filling stations and the fuel are now available, paving the way for environmentally and economically sound long-haul traffic.”

The initiative for approval, a joint effort between erdgas mobil and TÜV Süd, was supported by the LNG Blue Corridors. The EU-funded project represents the first phase in the staged roll out of LNG refuelling stations and a broad market development for heavy-duty vehicles powered by liquefied natural gas. Running for 4 years, it will connect over 12 Member States by means of 14 new LNG stations. The first year has just been completed and 3 refuelling points have been built. They are operating in Belgium, Italy and Sweden. The construction of a station in Germany is also foreseen, with planning being handled by NGVA Europe member erdgas mobil.

European policy makers are taking advantage of these environmental benefits of natural gas (CNG/LNG) and are making it a cornerstone of the Clean Power for Transport package, as Lennart Pilskog, Secretary General of NGVA Europe, explained during the press conference.

The included directive on alternative fuels infrastructure, approved by the Council on 29 September 2014, has addressed the biggest challenge for increased use of NGVs by setting clear targets for the build-up of a comprehensive refuelling infrastructure for natural gas in Europe.

“LNG will play a key role, especially for commercial vehicles,” Pilskog pointed out.

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Press Release; Image: NGVA Europe