Shell has officially opened what it claims is Belgium’s first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) station.

The site in Herstal, Rue du Hermée, was commissioned in 2016 and has been built and tested by AECOM, which will remain responsible for maintenance of the facility.

Shell says the clear, colorless and non-toxic liquid which forms when natural gas is cooled is a suitable fuel because it is relatively clean and due to the low volume of space it occupies, making it easier, cheaper and safer to store and ship.

The energy giant says the fuel is cost-competitive for trucks that cover long distances, as well as producing less sulphur, particulates and nitrogen oxides compared to traditional diesels,

Laurent Charlot, Commercial Director of Shell Belgium, said: “Shell is committed to thriving throughout the energy transition and LNG will play an increasing role in the energy mix.

“The station in Herstal is an important step in the further expansion of our network of LNG stations in Europe.”