Red Diesel vs White Diesel: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters for Farmers in 2025
If you’re running a farm, you’ve likely heard a lot about red diesel, and possibly just as much confusion about where and how it can still be used. With regulations evolving and costs under pressure, it’s important to understand the difference between red diesel and white diesel.
At RSM Fuel Delivery, we support local (and nationwide) farms with affordable, compliant red diesel, delivered 24/7 to keep your operation running smoothly.
Here’s what you need to know.
What’s the Difference Between Red Diesel and White Diesel?
Red diesel and white diesel are chemically almost identical; the only real difference is the red dye and chemical marker added to red diesel, which allows HMRC to track its usage and discourage misuse.
Red diesel is dyed red to distinguish it from white diesel, which is clear. It is taxed at a lower, rebated rate and is legally permitted for use in industries like agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
White diesel, on the other hand, is subject to the full duty rate and can be used in all vehicles and machinery. As a result of the higher fuel duty and VAT, white diesel is typically more expensive per litre, while red diesel remains the more cost-effective option for eligible industries.
Can You Still Use Red Diesel on Farms in 2025?
Yes, agricultural use of red diesel is still legal.
Following the government’s 2022 reforms, many industries lost the right to use red diesel, but agriculture was exempt. If you’re using fuel for:
• Tractors and harvesters
• Telehandlers and sprayers
• On-farm generators
• Agricultural construction (e.g. fence posts, drainage work)
…you’re still fully within your rights to use red diesel in 2025.
Why It Matters for Your Farm
1. Lower Fuel Costs
With prices still under pressure across the board, using red diesel where permitted helps you cut operational costs significantly compared to white diesel. The tax rebate makes a real difference, especially in summer when fuel demand peaks during harvesting and groundworks.
2. 24/7 Reliable Deliveries
Timing is everything in farming. When you’re working long hours, you can’t afford to wait on late deliveries. We deliver day or night, seven days a week, to farms. Whether it’s a top-up before sunrise or a bulk order out of hours, our flexible service fits around your busy schedule.
3. Supporting Local Farms
When you order from RSM, you’re not just buying fuel, you’re backing a local business that understands agriculture. We’ve built strong relationships with farms across the region, helping them stay compliant, keep costs down, and avoid downtime.
Staying Compliant with Legislation
Using red diesel incorrectly can result in fines or vehicle seizures. That’s why it’s vital to know:
• Which vehicles, equipment and industries are eligible
• Where fuel is stored and recorded
• That you’re buying from a reliable and fully licensed supplier
If you’re unsure, our team is always on hand to offer clear, honest advice. We’ll never leave you second-guessing your legal position.
Ready to Order?
We’re already delivering red diesel to farms throughout the summer with:
• Fair, transparent pricing
• No delivery delays
• 24/7 support
See our Fuel Delivery page for more info, or contact our team today for a free, no obligation quote and keep your agricultural operations moving.