Bio-LPG and biopropane: EREs from biomass fuel

The liquid biofuel route

LPG is stored as a liquid under pressure. Bio-LPG and biopropane are made from biomass. The NEa treats bio-LPG booking under the liquid biofuel rules. The guarantee of origin route used for biomethane at a CNG station does not apply here.

The supplier must demonstrate that the delivered fuel contained the declared biogenic component. In a blend with fossil LPG, only the proven biofuel quantity counts. Writing 'renewable LPG' on the invoice does not provide all the required evidence.

The feedstock determines the ERE type

The same product can be made from different feedstocks. An eligible Annex IX-A feedstock can generate ERE-G. Used cooking oil and category 1 or 2 animal fats fall under ERE-B. Other feedstocks may qualify as C or O, with the corresponding restrictions.

Record the feedstock exactly as it appears on the proof of sustainability, or PoS. Check the emissions value too. The number of units reflects the energy supplied and lifecycle emissions saving. For category 3 animal fat, the feedstock factor halves the calculated number of ERE-O units.

What the booking party needs

A regular supply requires the appropriate excise status, certification and a mass balance for the final storage location. The booking party must also substantiate the Dutch destination and the quantity supplied.

For bio-LPG, a biomass verification at the production location can, under conditions, establish the biogenic share. This verification must relate to the fuel actually supplied and booked. A general producer certificate is insufficient.

Direct imports of physical bio-LPG have a specific mass balance route. The booking party records the fuel as a trader from purchase at the foreign production facility through to supply in the Netherlands. This exception does not remove the other sustainability and delivery evidence requirements.

Check the destination before agreeing the sale

A land supply can generate LREs. Conventional biofuels are excluded from inland shipping. Only advanced and other biofuels can be booked for maritime shipping. Bio-LPG from a category B feedstock therefore cannot generate ZRE-B.

Before signing an agreement, request the product name, feedstock, PoS, biogenic quantity and exact supply route. Record who is entitled to book the supply and who retains the evidence. The ERE calculation can then be matched to the same batch of fuel as the invoice and physical delivery.