What is HVO?

Hydro-treated vegetable oil (HVO) is a type of renewable diesel fuel made from vegetable oils, such as rapeseed, soybean, palm, or waste cooking oil, through a process called hydrotreating.
 
HVO is considered a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels because it is produced from renewable feedstocks and has lower carbon emissions compared to conventional diesel. It can be used in a variety of applications, including transportation, power generation, and heating.

There are many benefits of HVO when compared to mineral diesel, kerosene or even first generation biofuels. These benefits aren’t just to the environment and corporate social responsibility, but tangible benefits to your business and equipment. The advantages of HVO include:

When compared to diesel or kerosene, HVO fuel reduces CO2 emissions by almost 90%. HVO usage also reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by up to 27% and particulate matter (PM) emissions by up to 84%. This not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but contributes to overall cleaner air.

HVO fuel is 100% renewable and has been certified by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) as sustainable. It is also a second-generation biofuel which means that it derives entirely from waste products that would likely otherwise go to landfill. It should also be noted that the production of HVO from reputable suppliers does not contain any products which contribute to deforestation.

HVO fuel is perfect for long-term fuel storage and can be stored for up to 10 years which makes it ideal for applications where long-term storage is required such as backup generators. As the hydrogenation process removes oxygen from the fuel, there is a significantly reduced risk of degradation or oxidation. HVO does not absorb water like first generation biofuels so does not provide an environment where diesel bug can thrive. This also removes the need for regular fuel testing and maintenance programs to remove water.

Pure hydrotreated vegetable oil is odourless, non-toxic and biodegradable. Therefore leaks and spills of HVO have a considerably less detrimental impact to the environment than diesel or kerosene. The flash point of HVO is also higher than mineral diesel which decreases the risk of a fire hazard.

HVO has a considerably lower freeze point (-40°C) than diesel (-8°C). While this isn’t often a concern in the UK, it is one reason why HVO is so suitable for the decarbonisation of the aviation industry.

For most applications HVO is completely interchangeable with diesel and can completely replace diesel or be blended with diesel in any ratio. Many Original Engine Manufacturers (OEMs) including popular passenger car manufacturers, freight vehicle manufacturers and non-road vehicle manufacturers have approved the use of HVO fuel in their vehicle’s engines. If your vehicle has an OEM that has approved the fuel then there is no risk of voiding the warranty.

HVO’s clean-burning properties significantly reduced particulate production (up to 84%) which helps to improve the engine cleanliness, prolong the lifetime of emission control systems (where fitted) and decrease the ageing of engine oils. Additionally, as HVO does not react with water or oxygen, storage of the fuel avoids sludge build-up and diesel bug so prevents filters from blocking and contaminants entering your equipment.

*Paraffinic fuels must meet EN 15940 standart. Refer to table on the last page for the requirements.