Ireland Advances Transport Decarbonisation with 2025 Alternative Fuels Strategy

Ireland’s Transport Minister, Darragh O’Brien, has released the 2025 report from the interdepartmental Alternative Fuels for Transport Working Group.

Reducing emissions from transport depends on advancing low- and zero-emission technologies to lessen dependence on fossil fuels. The report outlines recommendations for coordinated efforts to expand the use of alternative fuels, which can support decarbonisation, strengthen energy security, and improve renewable energy use and efficiency within Ireland’s transport sector.

Throughout 2025, the Working Group focused on improving collaboration, policy alignment, and the visibility of initiatives related to alternative transport fuels. It brings together representatives from key government departments and agencies involved in climate and energy policy, alongside contributions from industry specialists and international energy experts.

Key outputs delivered during the year included work on the draft National Planning Framework to meet the EU’s Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation, progress updates from the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Taskforce, and research into the future supply of advanced biofuels and renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBOs) needed to achieve EU renewable energy targets in transport.

The group also concentrated on the significant challenges associated with reducing emissions in harder-to-decarbonise areas such as road freight, maritime transport, and aviation.

Commenting on the report, Minister O’Brien highlighted the importance of transitioning to cleaner transport technologies as part of long-term decarbonisation plans. He noted that global supply chain disruptions further emphasise the need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. He added that the Working Group plays a crucial role in aligning policies, regulations, and support measures to encourage the adoption of alternative fuels, ensuring a consistent and coordinated approach across the sector.

He also stressed that achieving decarbonisation will require a mix of solutions, including electrification and renewable fuels. The Government’s programme includes commitments to expand renewable energy and continue supporting alternative fuel adoption in transport, with wider economic benefits. This includes promoting solutions such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), hydrogen, electric vehicles, and biomethane for road freight and passenger transport, as well as developing a national policy for sustainable aviation fuels.