Preparations begin for a distribution infrastructure programme for alternative transport fuels

The Ministry of Transport and Communications has launched preparations for a national programme for distribution infrastructure for alternative fuels.  

The programme comprises an updated assessment of the development of a distribution network for alternatives to fossil fuels in road traffic; the targets for the infrastructure and vehicle stock; and the measures required for achieving these targets. The programme concerns the development of, and objectives for, alternative fuels in rail traffic, maritime transport and air transport as well as measures to promote them.

The improvement of a distribution network for alternative fuels is a key to transition to clean energy in transport. The preparation of an action plan for expanding the distribution network of alternative fuels is set out in the Programme of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s Government.

The programme promotes the implementation of the EU Regulation on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure (AFIR Regulation) in Finland and serves as the foundation for the monitoring activities required by the Regulation. The AFIR Regulation lays down minimum requirements for the distribution infrastructure. 

The preparation of the national programme for distribution infrastructure will make use of the distribution infrastructure programme for new fuels in road transport published by the Ministry of Transport and Communications in March 2023 and drawn up in close cooperation with stakeholders. Preparations will be made in cooperation with the process to update the National Transport System Plan (Transport 12).

Next steps

The administrative branch of the Ministry of Transport and Communications will prepare a draft programme for distribution infrastructure. The draft programme will be prepared together with stakeholders in early 2024. A public hearing and a round of consultation on the programme will be organised in summer 2024, after which the programme will be finalised. 

The national programme for distribution infrastructure for alternative fuels must be submitted to the European Commission by 31 December 2024.

Inquiries:

Tuuli Ojala, Ministerial Adviser, tel. +358 50 563 8130, tuuli.ojala[at]gov.fi

Emmi Simonen, Senior Specialist, tel. +358 50 300 6148, emmi.simonen[at]gov.fi