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As companies and fleet managers continue to push for more sustainable transport solutions, many are exploring not only the transition to electric vehicles but also alternative fuel options. In her article for us last year, Geraldine Herbert examined the potential of synthetic fuels as a possible lifeline for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
Another option gaining traction is Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) — a renewable and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diesel. With HVO now appearing more frequently on garage forecourts across the country, we decided to take a closer look at this emerging fuel.
What is HVO Fuel?
HVO fuel is derived from renewable sources such as vegetable oils, animal fats, and waste oils. Through a process called hydrotreating, these feedstocks are refined into a high-quality, paraffinic diesel substitute. Unlike biodiesel, which is ester-based, HVO retains the chemical properties of diesel, making it compatible with existing diesel engines and infrastructure. This characteristic makes HVO a seamless transition fuel for the transport industry.
Environmental Benefits
The adoption of HVO fuel in Ireland aligns with the country’s ambitious climate goals. HVO offers significant environmental benefits, including:
- Reduced Carbon Footprint: HVO can deliver up to 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional diesel when considering the entire lifecycle, including production and use.
- Improved Air Quality: Lower emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter contribute to cleaner air in urban areas, thus improving public health outcomes.
- Resource Efficiency: Utilizing waste oils and fats for HVO production promotes circular economy principles by reducing waste and enhancing resource efficiency.
Adoption and Infrastructure
The deployment of HVO fuel across Ireland has been supported by both public and private sectors. Fleet operators, transportation agencies, and commercial businesses are increasingly integrating HVO into their fuel strategies. Key factors driving adoption include:
- Government Incentives: Subsidies and tax incentives encourage businesses to switch to low-carbon alternatives like HVO.
- Infrastructure Development: Investments in refueling infrastructure, including pumps and storage facilities, facilitate widespread availability of HVO fuel across the country. (Certa, Circle K, Maxol)
Challenges and Future Outlook
While HVO presents a promising solution to decarbonizing Ireland’s transport sector, challenges remain. These include the scalability of feedstock supply chains, ensuring price competitiveness with conventional diesel, and addressing technical compatibility issues in older diesel engines.
Looking ahead, continued collaboration between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and research institutions will be crucial in overcoming these challenges. Innovations in feedstock sourcing, refining technologies, and regulatory frameworks will further enhance the viability and sustainability of HVO fuel in Ireland.
In Summary
HVO fuel is one of several emerging solutions contributing to Ireland’s transition toward a more sustainable transport sector. With notable environmental benefits, compatibility with existing diesel infrastructure, and growing support from various stakeholders, HVO offers a practical route to reducing emissions and improving air quality – particularly for fleet operators seeking low-carbon alternatives.
As Ireland continues to explore a range of cleaner energy options, HVO represents a useful and increasingly accessible alternative. While not a catch-all solution, it forms part of a broader strategy to create a more sustainable and resilient transport system.
In short, HVO is a valuable addition to Ireland’s growing portfolio of low-emission fuels, helping to advance environmental goals alongside other renewable and electrification initiatives.
Considering HVO?
If you drive a diesel vehicle and are considering switching to HVO fuel, the process is generally straightforward.
First, check your vehicle manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm that your engine is compatible with HVO (most modern diesel engines are). Once confirmed, you can fill up at any garage offering HVO—no modifications are needed if your vehicle is compatible. You can also switch between regular diesel and HVO without issue, so there’s no need to run your tank dry before making the change.