Reliable Red Diesel (Gas Oil) Supply Across the UK
Power your off-road machinery and operations with cost-effective, HMRC-compliant red diesel (gas oil) from Certas Energy. As the UK’s leading independent fuel and lubricant distributor, Certas Energy supplies reliable, compliant red diesel nationwide. With a local presence across over 130 depots and a fleet of over 900 tankers, we ensure your operations are never left waiting. Benefit from competitive pricing, expert advice on regulations, and delivery services tailored to your needs.
Get Your Red Diesel QuoteWhat is Red Diesel (Gas Oil)?
Red diesel, also known as gas oil, 35-second oil, or rebated diesel, is chemically identical to regular (white) road diesel. However, it contains a red dye and chemical markers, signifying that it’s taxed at a lower rate for eligible off-road applications.
Due to its rebated duty, red diesel offers a cost-effective fuel solution for industries such as agriculture and rail. Its use is strictly regulated by HMRC.
HMRC guidance on red diesel use
In April 2022, HMRC introduced tighter restrictions on which industries can use red diesel. Only specific industries and applications now qualify for red diesel use.
Using red diesel in standard road vehicles or for non-approved purposes is illegal and can result in substantial fines or even vehicle seizure.
Official HMRC guidance on Red DieselThe Benefits of Using Red Diesel for Your Business
Choosing red diesel can significantly benefit eligible sectors in many ways, including:
- Reduced Operating Costs – Enjoy substantial savings compared to using full-duty white diesel.
- Reliable Performance – Red diesel powers engines and machinery just as effectively as road diesel.
- Vital Across Industries – Red diesel remains essential to agriculture, rail, marine transport, and non-commercial heating sectors.
- Flexible Supply Options – Certas Energy offers tailored delivery options — from bulk tankers to 205-litre barrels — ensuring you never run dry.
- Nationwide Reach – With depots across Britain, we offer fast, reliable delivery wherever your business operates.
Who Can Legally Use Red Diesel?
Eligible sectors include:
Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestry, and Fisheries: For powering tractors, harvesters, and other machinery used for qualifying purposes.
Rail Transport: For diesel train engines and maintenance vehicles operating on rail networks.
Non-Commercial Heating: For places of worship, hospitals, schools, and other non-commercial buildings using oil-fired boilers.
Marine (excluding private pleasure craft in Northern Ireland): For commercial fishing boats, ferries, and other qualifying vessels.
Travelling Fairs and Circuses: For powering generators and machinery.
Amateur Sports Clubs: For ground maintenance machinery like mowers.
Golf Courses: For specific machinery used in course upkeep.
Community Facilities: Certain community buildings may qualify for heating use.
Strict Penalties for Misuse
It is crucial to ensure you are legally entitled to use red diesel. Using rebated fuel illegally can result in severe penalties, including fines, back-payment of fuel duty, and potential seizure of the machinery involved.
Unsure About Eligibility?
Our team can help you navigate the current rules. Contact us for guidance or refer to the official government legislation.
Why Choose Certas Energy for Your Red Diesel Needs?
Choosing Certas Energy means peace of mind:
Nationwide Delivery Network With over 130 depots and a fleet of more than 900 vehicles, we deliver wherever you are.
Decades of Expertise Trusted by thousands of UK businesses, with fuel supply heritage dating back multiple decades.
Dedicated Account Support Tailored service with advice on compliance, scheduling, and fuel management.
Flexible Delivery Options From bulk deliveries to urgent emergency call-outs, we adapt to your operational needs.
Commitment to Compliance and Safety Accredited by UKIFDA and committed to the highest standards.
Ordering Red Diesel Made Simple
Getting Red Diesel from Certas Energy is easy.
We are committed to making your deliveries as hassle-free as possible. With local knowledge across the UK, as well as the ability to deliver to even the most rural parts of the country, there’s no issue we haven’t helped our customers to overcome.
We can offer advice on regulations or schedule deliveries in advance, so you don’t even have to think about running out of fuels.
There are multiple ways we can help.
Step 1: Contact Our Red Diesel Experts – Request a quote online or give us a call.
Step 2: Confirm Eligibility – We’ll help ensure your application qualifies.
Step 3: Agree on Your Delivery – Choose your required volume, location, and timing.
Step 4: Receive Your Delivery – Dependable service — often within 24–48 hours.
Request a Red Diesel QuoteIn the agricultural sector, red diesel is indispensable for running a wide variety of machinery and is essential to farming operations.
Typical Uses:
- Tractors, combine harvesters, and crop sprayers
- Grain dryers and irrigation pumps
- Farm generators and site vehicles
With the cost savings from reduced fuel duty, farmers can operate vital equipment year-round while keeping overheads manageable. Certas Energy also offers flexible deliveries to align with seasonal peaks like harvest and sowing periods.
Agriculture Case StudyThe rail sector depends on red diesel for non-electrified routes and maintenance work, keeping the UK’s rail infrastructure moving.
Typical Uses:
- Diesel-powered locomotives
- Track maintenance and engineering trains
- Station backup generators
Rail companies trust Certas Energy for the consistent quality and compliant supply of red diesel needed to meet strict operational and safety standards.
Red diesel is vital for powering many commercial marine vessels operating around the UK’s coastline and inland waterways.
Typical Uses:
- Fishing boats and trawlers
- Commercial ferries
- Dredging vessels and harbour machinery
Marine operations often run 24/7 and demand reliable fuel deliveries. Certas Energy’s specialist marine fuel solutions ensure compliant red diesel supply, even at less accessible ports and harbours.
In rural and remote areas not connected to the gas grid, red diesel plays a crucial role in heating buildings cost-effectively.
Typical Uses:
- Heating oil-fired boilers in schools, hospitals, community centres, and places of worship
- Back-up generators for emergency heating
Certas Energy supports many institutions with tailored delivery schedules and competitive pricing to ensure essential services remain warm and operational throughout the colder months.
Understanding Red Diesel Prices
Understanding Red Diesel Prices
Red diesel pricing fluctuates daily based on:
- Global Oil Markets
- Delivery Location
- Order Volume
- Urgency of Delivery
For today’s most competitive rates, get a personalised quote tailored to your business needs.
Environmental Considerations of Red Diesel and Cleaner Alternatives
While red diesel remains vital to many industries, Certas Energy is committed to helping customers on their sustainability journeys.
Considering an alternative to red diesel?
Certas Energy is a leading supplier of HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) Renewable Diesel. HVO is a drop-in alternative fuel that can significantly reduce net CO2 emissions without requiring engine modifications.
We also offer:
Fuel Consultancy: We help businesses manage their sustainability journeys efficiently and responsibly.
Secure Fuel Storage: Use bonded fuel tanks to prevent leaks and spills.
Fuel Monitoring: Our telemetry systems track usage, optimise deliveries, and protect from leaks and theft.
Certas Energy’s Commitment
We are actively investing in future fuels and supporting customers in their transition to more sustainable energy solutions.
Red Diesel FAQs
Who can legally use red diesel in the UK?
Since April 2022, eligibility is restricted mainly to agriculture, horticulture, forestry, fish farming, rail transport, non-commercial heating, travelling fairs/circuses, amateur sports clubs, and some marine uses. Always check the latest HMRC guidance or contact us if unsure.
What are the penalties for using red diesel illegally?
HMRC can issue significant fines, demand back-payment of the duty difference between red and white diesel, and may seize the vehicle or machinery involved. It’s crucial to ensure compliance.
How do I switch from white diesel to red diesel (if eligible)?
If eligible, simply start ordering red diesel for your qualifying equipment. Ensure tanks used previously for white diesel are clearly marked for red diesel use if necessary, though cross-contamination is not typically an issue performance-wise, the key is ensuring the use is permitted.
How long can I store red diesel safely?
Red diesel can typically be stored for up to 6 months under good conditions (clean, sealed tank, minimal water ingress). Using fuel monitoring and regular tank checks helps maintain quality.
Can I buy red diesel in small quantities?
Yes, Certas Energy offers various supply options, including 205-litre barrels and smaller deliveries, alongside bulk tanker supplies. Minimum order quantities may apply, contact us for details.
Is red diesel the same as heating oil?
Red diesel (gas oil) is often used for heating, particularly in commercial/non-commercial settings. Check your boiler’s requirements – gas oil is sometimes called ’35-second oil’ when talked about for heating purposes.
Is red diesel banned in the UK?
No, red diesel is not banned, but its use has been significantly restricted to specific eligible sectors since April 2022.
Complete Your Fuel Solution
Certas Energy offers more than just fuel delivery:
Fuel Storage Solutions: Hire or purchase bunded fuel tanks for safe, compliant on-site storage.
Fuel Management & Telemetry: Remotely monitor fuel levels to prevent runouts and optimise deliveries.
HVO Renewable Diesel: Explore our sustainable drop-in alternative fuel.
Other Industrial Fuels & Lubricants: We supply a full range of energy products for businesses.
Industry-Specific Expertise: Access dedicated support for agriculture, construction, marine, and more.
Ready to Secure Your Red Diesel Supply?
Partner with Certas Energy for reliable, HMRC-compliant, and cost-effective red diesel delivered nationwide. Our expert team is ready to support your business’s fuel needs.
