Red diesel refers to gas oil or rebated fuel, which are forms of diesel with lower taxes and are mainly used in road less vehicles, agricultural machinery, and other industrial equipment. Its identity is easily known due to the red dye it features. Many people wonder, though, if red diesel can be employed in generators. This article outlines the uses, benefits, legal considerations, and consequences for generator performance.

Understanding “red diesel”

It is also known as rebated fuel or gas oil and represents a special kind of diesel, primarily consumed by off-road vehicles and equipment. It is quite often applied in agricultural sectors, construction, and shipping where cars and equipment do not cross public roads. Red diesel also contains red dye that is not found in regular diesel and makes the authorities monitor its use and regulate it accordingly. Referred to as rebated gas oil, red diesel is much more tax-efficient as compared to ordinary diesel, making it one of the most preferred forms of UK red diesel. This makes Red Diesel UK a popular choice for our audience like diesel for generators, where cost savings are essential.

Why is red diesel cheaper?

It is cheaper because of the taxation rate. Regular diesel is usually taxed at a higher rate than red diesel. This fuel is not for on-road use. It can be used in agricultural machines, construction machines, heating systems, etc.

• It supports industries that rely on heavy-duty operations. 
• It is cheaper due to the lower tax rate, which makes it an affordable choice for businesses seeking to cut costs while still maintaining efficiency. 

So, “Can you still buy red diesel? “, the reply to this varies on the location and use. In the UK, regulations around red diesel fuel for sale have tightened, restricting its use to specific applications. This price advantage, however, is crucial for sectors like farming and marine, where high fuel consumption is common. Always ensure your use complies with local laws to enjoy its cost benefits legally.

Uses of diesel oil

Here are some main uses of diesel oil listed:

• Transport 
• Heavy Equipment 
• Electric Power Generation 
• Heating red diesel
• Marine usage 
• Industrial and Commercial use 
• Agricultural purposes 
• Off-road Vehicles 
• Emergency uses like ambulances, fire trucks, and military vehicles.

Is it Legal to use Red Diesel in the UK?

In the UK, red diesel is allowed but for limited purposes. The distinctive red colour, a defining characteristic differentiating it from standard amber-coloured road diesel, makes its misuse easily identifiable to authorities. So, what colour is your diesel?

 If red, its usage is confined to applications like running agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and heating systems. The legal utilisation of red diesel, however, has, over the years narrowed through amendments in regulations, especially for minimising negative impacts on the environment and its misuse. 

The use of red diesel is prohibited for all road vehicles, a misuse with serious penalties that result from hefty fines. Thus always adhere to the UK’s regulations to avoid its sanctions and enjoy the use of this cheaper fuel source.

What Happens If You Use Red Diesel Illegally?

People often think why is red diesel illegal? Here are a few reasons:

• Detection Is Easy
• Heavy Fines
• Vehicle Seizure
• Criminal Charges
• Tax Fraud Implications
• Compliance Is Essential

We recommend you not use it illegally.

How is Red Diesel Different From Normal Diesel?

Red diesel is chemically identical to regular diesel,  it only differs in tax status as well as the intended usage. Both types of fuels are based on the same chemical properties but incur a tax rebate on their purchase, thus becoming affordable for industries using off-road vehicles and equipment.

Other types of diesel are tax levied for their utilisation in road vehicles. This is why red diesel is often referred to as “rebated fuel” and is dyed red for easy identification. If you are wondering how much red diesel costs, it generally comes at a lower price than standard diesel due to the tax reductions. Where can you buy red diesel? 

Red diesel is available from various fuel suppliers, especially in regions where its use is permitted for off-road applications. You might be wondering where can buy red diesel fuel. The answer is pretty straightforward,  most fuel companies supply it to businesses and farms, so it’s just a matter of finding a reliable supplier in your area.

Can you use Red Diesel in a Generator?

If you are wondering who can use red diesel in a generator, the answer often lies in the type of generator in use and the regulations pertinent to your area. So, red diesel fuel is utilised in off-road machines, agricultural equipment, as well as backup generators to ensure that it is economical. In the UK, red diesel is used in heating non-commercial places, powering generators, and as fuel for construction and agricultural equipment. However, one should keep in mind that only those industries or operations legally allowed to use red diesel like agriculture, construction, and marine industries can enjoy the tax rebates. 

Where can I buy red diesel at the pump?

You can buy red diesel at:

• agricultural supply stores, 
• construction equipment fuel providers, 
• industrial fuel suppliers, 
• marine fuel stations, and dedicated fuel depots. 

You have to ensure that you are legally allowed to use it.

In summary, red diesel is still available, though its application is now limited because of various changes in the rules. The red diesel fuel suppliers provide this cheap source of power for off-road machinery, heating, and backup generators. The major consumers of these fuels are industries like agriculture and construction. Provided that you do not violate any local laws, you are still allowed to use the fuel, but you have to buy it from authorised suppliers only.

Looking for a reliable source of red diesel? Contact our suppliers now!

Ready to save on fuel costs? Locate your nearest red diesel supplier for UK power generators today and keep your operations running smoothly!