Herm Island has partnered with fuel supplier Rubis Channel Islands to make the switch to 100% renewable fuel and energy efficient technologies for the island’s vehicles, homes, and businesses.
As part of ongoing initiatives to improve Herm’s carbon footprint, the island commissioned a trial to run the ‘Isle of Herm’ ferry service exclusively on Rubis 100% Renewable Diesel RD100 in 2021. It was the first and only ferry service in the Channel Islands to use renewable fuel and, after a successful trial, both parties have now entered a partnership with the ambition to reduce the island’s environmental impact and absolute greenhouse gas emissions.
Herm Island’s Services Manager, James Hastings, said: “This exciting partnership with Rubis demonstrates our enthusiasm for taking steps towards aiding the energy transition for our island. We are working with Rubis to deliver solutions using multiple energy sources. From renewable fuels for vehicles and homes, to solar power and energy efficient technologies, we’re committed to help improve the environment as climate goals need a broad range of sustainable fuels and products.”
Nick Crolla, Head of Sales & Marketing, Rubis Channel Islands added: “Herm is a unique destination and leisure services provider to both the local and visiting public. The island’s leaseholder, John and Julia Singer are wonderful custodians and have a passion to preserve, protect, enhance, and share all that the Island has to offer.
“The partnership was conceived after both parties recognised that we have a very strong alignment, on local community focused and environmental strategies. Aware of the necessity of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions, we intend to support this energy transition by continuing to implement sustainable solutions for the Island.”
Rubis is leading the hydrocarbon transition in the Channel Islands, supporting the governments and community in their aim for carbon neutrality. At a local level, 100% renewable fuel can improve air quality, with a significant reduction in smoke, particulates, NOx, and carbon monoxide. Then at a global level the carbon emissions during the lifecycle of the fuel are reduced by up to 90%, because the carbon being released in the atmosphere is offset by the carbon absorbed by plants in the production of the fuel, creating a virtuous global carbon cycle.
Rubis 100% Renewable Diesel RD100 has been available in the Channel Islands since 2019, and Rubis is also the first distributor in Europe to provide 100% renewable heating oil (EcoHeat100) for oil-heated homes and businesses.
One of the key goals of the partnership is to supply Herm Island with renewable technologies and together, both parties have conducted a full survey to agree on a work plan for all heating and fuel systems on the estate. The next stage is to upgrade the island’s infrastructure incorporating on-island generation using solar PV, working towards Herm becoming the first carbon neutral island in the British Isles.
