From 1 January 2022, the increase in the price of natural gas for households purchasing natural gas at the regulated tariff will be significantly lower than the increase in the total price of natural gas in the market.
The use of natural gas in road transport has become increasingly popular over the last decade. CNG-powered cars are now used by more than two million Europeans and are suitable for everyone, from private vehicle owners to public transport and freight transport.
The Gaso service tariff is intended for a regulation period of 4.5 years (from 1 July 2021 to 31 December 2025).
The changes are related to both the increase in the natural gas prices in the global markets and the amendments to the service tariff of distribution system operator Gaso (hereinafter – Gaso), which was approved by the Public Utilities Commission (hereinafter – PUC) on 30 April this year.
Jēkabpils is one of the first towns where commercial vehicles run on CNG. According to chairman of the board of SIA ‘Jēkabpils autobusu parks’ Jānis Ščerbickis, the renovation of their bus fleet with seven CNG vehicles in Jēkabpils has made it possible to maintain the bus fare at the current level (0.50 euros), and to preserve various discounts and benefits, such as free bus rides for schoolchildren.
Natural gas and biomethane will play a significant role in long-term freight and passenger transport; however, experts concluded that the promotion of the use of alternative fuels requires infrastructure, fiscal and financial support, as well as a review of European Union (EU) policies, during the conference ‘Gas and Transport. Myths. Reality. Benefits’. The main topic of the discussion was the achievement of international climate objectives, while maintaining the competitiveness of transport companies.