bp buys stake in UK biomethane provider

GasRec builds, owns and operates biomethane refueling stations,

bp has purchased a 28.57% stake in Gasrec, the UK’s largest provider of bio-Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) and bio-Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to road transport for an undisclosed amount.

The company builds, owns and operates biomethane refueling stations, providing renewable solutions to the heavy goods vehicle (“HGV”) industry.

bp will supply Gasrec with renewable biomethane produced mainly from organic wastes, such as food and dairy manure. The investment will expand bp’s UK footprint in renewable gas production and distribution, adding to its market leading position in the US.

“Bio-LNG and bio-CNG play a crucial role in the energy transition and decarbonization of the heavy-freight industry and is another example of how we’re helping decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors,” said Carol Howle, EVP trading and shipping at bp. “We’re excited to work with an industry leader like Gasrec to increase the supply of biomethane for HGV customers. This investment further expands bp’s global renewable gas portfolio, an area which we believe will have an increasingly important role on the path to net zero.”

Founded in 2003, Gasrec was the UK’s first supplier of biomethane to the road transport sector. Its customers include some of the UK’s biggest retailers, parcel delivery companies and hauliers -- Asda, Ocado, Gregory Distribution and Reed Boardall.

By offering lower carbon solutions for HGVs, Gasrec said it lowers the carbon emissions associated with the road transport supply chain and the customers who transport goods.

Gasrec’s network of ten biomethane refueling stations across the UK is capable of refueling approximately 1,250 vehicles per day and includes one of Europe’s largest gas refueling stations, at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT), the company said.

Gasrec refuels around 40% of the UK’s gas-powered HGVs and is seeking to expand its network of refueling stations at logistics parks, the company said.

Renewable gas is an important part of the energy transition for the HGV sector, providing a commercially viable option for fleet owners to reduce their carbon footprint by up to 85% in comparison to diesel.

From producing and supplying biomethane through to building and operating the fueling stations, bp and Gasrec are well positioned to meet the increasing demand for reliable, renewable gas solutions.

“This agreement is an important milestone for our company as we look to continue increasing our impact on the UK’s heavy goods vehicle industry. Building on our eighteen years’ experience and leading position in the HGV gas supply industry, we are excited to be working with bp to help expand our reach,” said Gasrec CEO Rob Wood.