Red diesel has a lot of names – gas oil, tractor diesel, generator diesel, marine diesel, 35-second oil, and even cherry juice. With so many terms floating about, it’s no wonder people ask: what is red diesel and who can actually use it?
Let’s clear that up.
And to keep things simple, we’ll stick with the name red diesel throughout.
What is red diesel and what makes it different?
Red diesel is essentially the same as the white diesel you’d put in a regular road vehicle, but with one key difference: it’s dyed red. This red marker dye has been legally required since 1961 to help HMRC identify and prevent illegal use. Because red diesel is taxed at a lower rate than white diesel, it’s referred to as a “rebated fuel” and strictly limited to off-road use.
Despite the colour, red diesel’s chemical makeup is identical to white diesel; it’s produced by refining crude oil and made up of various carbon molecules and chains.
Who uses red diesel and what is it used for?
Red diesel is commonly used in agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and other sectors where machinery doesn’t operate on public roads. It’s also used to fuel some generators, boats, and heating systems in specific circumstances.
However, the rules around red diesel changed in April 2022. Since then, its use has been heavily restricted. Sectors that can still legally use red diesel include:
- Agriculture, forestry and horticulture
- Rail transport
- Commercial boating and fishing
- Travelling fairs and circuses
- Community amateur sports clubs
- Non-commercial heating (e.g. schools, hospitals, places of worship)
If you’re using red diesel outside of these approved sectors, you could be breaking the law.
Is red diesel the same as other fuels?
Red diesel goes by many other names including gas oil, 35-second oil, agricultural diesel, digger fuel, generator fuel, and cherry diesel – but they all refer to the same fuel.
It’s also easy to confuse red diesel with other fuels used for heating, such as kerosene. While red diesel can power certain heating systems, particularly in older or rural properties, it isn’t a direct substitute for heating oil or kerosene. If you’re unsure what to use, always check with your supplier.
As for green diesel, otherwise known as biodiesel or HVO, that’s a completely different product. While red diesel is fossil fuel-based, green diesel is made from renewable sources and often used as a lower-carbon alternative.
Where can I buy red diesel?
You can get a quote for red diesel online, by contacting your local depot or by calling us at 03302 320 101. Whether you’re fuelling machinery or heating a permitted property, our team is on hand to help.