The minister also referred to the “Protocol for the Success of Natural Gas for Vehicles (NGV) in 2010,” introduced in 2005, which was not fully accomplished as the targets were set too high. However, she said the government will continue its effort in favor of CNG allowing it to receive a total exemption of domestic consumption tax on natural gas. In addition, the fuel “offers great potential”, both environmentally and economically, in the heavy-duty transport sector, she said.
“Moreover, we intend to promote development of biogas production through implementation of a redemption tariff for injection of biomethane into the national grid. These measures will encourage the French commitment to introduce 10 percent renewable energy in transport by 2020,” added Kosciusko-Morizet.
Currently there are 2,200 buses, 1,100 heavy-duty vehicles and 10,200 light-duty vehicles, mainly for commercial fleets, running on natural gas. The number of CNG refuelling stations is about 300 while 32 are public-access.
Source: French Association for Natural Gas Vehicles
