2022.03.25
HVO - We Made The Switch 25 MAR 2022
Fuel is high on the agenda for many businesses right now. With the government reform on red diesel effective from 1 April, companies are faced with little option for their next fuel choice. Without the tax levy exemption, whatever you fill your tank with will, undoubtedly, cost more money.
Right now, switching to HVO is one of the simplest and most effective choices businesses can make in reducing your local emissions and CO2.
As a drop-in fuel it can be used in all our generators and it is distributed, handled and stored in the same way as traditional fuel with no compromise on reliability even in cold weather.
From 1 April, in-line with the government reform and underpinned by our environmental pledges, we have made the decision to only stock white HVO fuel at our depots. This move is part of our ‘Greener Upgrades’ initiative, which also includes a multi-million-pound investment in new products and technologies. So, what is HVO and what environmental benefits can it bring to your business. Find out more with our quick guide below.
What is HVO?
HVO stands for Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil. While conventional diesel is a fossil fuel made from crude oil, HVO is a new and superior type of biodiesel made from biological material, making it one of the cleanest, greenest fuels on the market.
How is it produced?
HVO is produced from vegetable oils or animal fats. The process is a highly controlled hydrotreatment which produces an extremely pure, consistent fuel. Only waste materials are used for greater efficiency and zero impact on food supply. All raw materials are checked, verified, and audited by the Department for Transport to ensure both sustainability and product integrity are certified.
What are the benefits of HVO?
The major advantages of using HVO fuel are significantly reduced harmful emissions through much-improved burning efficiency and lower CO2 emissions, which are better for the environment.
- Eliminates up to 90% of net CO2 greenhouse gas
- Significantly reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx), particulate matter (PM) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions
- Biodegradable, non-toxic, and odour-free
- High cetane number means HVO is more easily ignited for smoother running, greater power and cleaner performance
- Safe to use in a wide range of applications
How is HVO sustainable?
HVO is accepted by the UK Government as a renewable fuel providing;
- It contains products that do not contribute to global deforestation
- Only waste materials are used for greater efficiency and zero impact on food supply
- Savings of more than 60% GHG savings ·
- Sustainability and GHG savings have been independently verified
Each import of HVO is certified by the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) and its greenhouse gas (GHG) credentials confirmed and documented. Each proof of sustainability confirms:
- Production facility
- Raw material original and type
- Supplier
- Traceability
- The ability to sell into the market
Where can HVO be used?
HVO fuel meets EN 15940 standards and, because it is a drop-in fuel, can be used in most engines, distribution and refuelling infrastructure, with no additional modifications or changes required. It’s just as easy to store as it is to use. HVO does not contain any esters or contamination, like regular diesel and FAME, which means it can be stored for extended periods of time, with no adverse effects on performance. We recommend you start with a clean tank of HVO to guarantee its long storage life and high-quality attributes.
How can Aggreko support?
In the next few weeks there will be key points you need to consider with regards to switching your fuel. Our team can provide you with the necessary advice and support to ensure you are ready for the 1 April deadline. In addition, with our fuel management service we can deliver HVO directly to you when you need it.
To find out more about how we are supporting the energy transition with our greener upgrade solutions click here, or get in touch with our team to find out more.