The rules for the supply of fuel to the Dutch transport sector have changed significantly. Effective January 1, 2026, the previous annual obligation has been replaced by the new "Fuel Transition Obligation." This is more than just a name change: for suppliers, it means a stricter focus on actual CO2 reduction and an extension of the rules to inland and maritime shipping.
Since the beginning of this year, companies that count renewable energy towards Dutch targets have been required to comply with stricter European sustainability requirements. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) explains that only fuels whose entire supply chain – from source to tank – is demonstrably sustainable are included.
From liters to climate gain
A fundamental change is the way performance is measured. The old system focused primarily on the amount of energy delivered (volume). Since January 1st, everything has revolved around "emission reduction units." Simply put: one unit represents one kilogram of avoided CO2. With this step, the Netherlands is aligning with revised European guidelines, which focus on the actual climate impact of a fuel.
The obligation applies to suppliers of gasoline and diesel to road transport, rail, and agricultural vehicles. They must ensure that the average CO2 emissions of their fuels are reduced. The Netherlands Emissions Authority (NEa) monitors this through the Energy for Transport Register.
Shipping now fully part of the system
A new feature of the legislation is the full integration of maritime and inland shipping. Suppliers to these sectors often previously enjoyed an exemption, but now also face the obligation. This aligns with broader European climate goals to make the maritime sector more sustainable. For many shipping suppliers, this means that, starting this month, they will be dealing with the administrative requirements of the NEa for the first time.
Strict requirements regarding origin
The requirements for the origin of raw materials remain as strict as ever. Biofuels must not be produced at the expense of vulnerable natural environments. Biomass from areas with high biodiversity or a high carbon stock—such as primary forests, peatlands, or protected natural areas—is excluded.
In addition, strict performance requirements apply: installations commissioned after January 1, 2021, must emit at least 65 percent less greenhouse gases than their fossil-based counterparts. Companies must demonstrate this with certificates from European-recognized systems. Without the correct documentation, a delivery will not count towards the requirement.
Clarity for the future
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management has now established the commitment percentages for the years 2026 through 2030. This provides companies with the necessary clarity for their long-term planning and investments. The course is aimed at further phasing out fossil fuels in transport, with road, water, and rail jointly contributing to climate goals.
For more information about the specific sustainability criteria and the operation of the Fuel Transition Obligation, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) refers to the updated guidelines on their website and the technical explanations from the NEa.
>> https://www.rvo.nl/onderwerpen/bio-energie/biobrandstoffen
Photo: Simone Hutsch, Unsplash.com
