Certas Energy: assuring AdBlue in a shifting fuel landscape
Andrew Goodwin of Certas Energy
As the use of alternative fuels accelerates, Certas Energy has outlined its ongoing commitment to supporting those who remain reliant on diesel, including through its supply of AdBlue.
“The transport industry and commercial fleets still rely heavily on diesel engines, even as alternative fuels like HVO, hydrogen and electric drives gain traction,” said Andrew Goodwin, recently appointed head of fuel cards at Certas Energy.
“Diesel vehicles aren’t disappearing overnight, so neither is AdBlue.”
To those driving commercial vehicles, AdBlue can be a source of anxiety, Andrew observes, not unlike range anxiety in EVs.
“The fill level in the AdBlue tank can be the difference between completing a job or not, making it to a destination or not. That’s why Certas Energy remains firmly committed to maintaining a strong and reliable AdBlue supply network.
“While an AdBlue tank doesn’t have to be filled up as often as a regular fuel tank, there are many variables that mean a strong network remains vitally important.”
For HGVs, AdBlue consumption varies due to a wide range of factors, including engine and tank size, usage and operating conditions.
“The vehicle will give you plenty of warning that the AdBlue tank is running low, but I’m sure we’ve all been guilty of pushing our limits occasionally,” said Andrew.
“With a network of more than 90 depots and a fleet of 700 tankers, we’re the UK’s largest distributor of lubricants and AdBlue, meaning drivers always have access within a short distance.
“We have AdBlue availability at 15 key Certas bunker sites, open 24 hours a day with super-fast pumps which deliver 120 litres of fuel per minute, plus a port-to-port backbone that allows a safe, reliable and consistent supply between the ports and the main arterial roads across the UK.”
He continued: “As well as expanding the network, we have also developed our digital fuel card, FuelTapp, to include additives at an AdBlue fuel station, which helps fleet managers keep all expenditure in one place and makes refuelling more efficient.
“In fact, our revamped FuelTapp now includes advanced fraud-prevention features, such as facial recognition at the application stage, which cross-checks users against their driving licence…
“For bulk purchases, we offer delivery to fleet depots within five working days at competitive pricing.”
Due to its manufacturing process, AdBlue is more exposed to price fluctuations and supply risks than fuels, Andrew says.
“Today, natural gas prices – critical to urea and AdBlue production – remain volatile, leading to reduced output and higher costs. Supply disruptions, including EU sanctions on Russia and production site closures across Europe, have further constrained availability.
“Through our network and scale, we strive to minimise the impact of this volatility on operators while maintaining consistent availability and quality.”
Andrew emphasises Certas Energy’s dedication to ensuring its AdBlue meets the highest manufacturing standards, as set out by the Verband der Automobilindustrie (VDA) – the German automotive association that established the global standard for AdBlue.
“As a VDA-licensed AdBlue supplier, you can be assured you’re getting a good quality product that won’t harm your Selective Catalytic Reduction system,” he added.
“We have suppliers we can trust and who we support in their efforts to produce AdBlue more sustainably, including using green ammonia and low area impact urea production methods.“
