Tired of dealing with rising fuel costs and growing pressure from customers to operate in a responsible way? You are not alone. Almost every business owner in the UK faces these issues. Relying on diesel to power generators, fleets, machinery, and heating systems results in higher emissions and long-term regulatory risks.
Therefore, you should consider using affordable and eco-friendly alternatives. One option that is gaining popularity is HVO fuel. You may have heard about it through sustainability discussions or supplier recommendations. However, switching fuels is not a small decision. Before switching to HVO fuel in UK, you need to understand what it is and how it works. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know before switching.
Key Things to Know Before Switching to HVO Fuel
Overview of HVO Fuel
Before switching, you need to understand what HVO fuel is and how it differs from traditional diesel. HVO stands for Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil. It is a renewable diesel made from waste materials such as used cooking oil, animal fats, and other residual oils. Unlike biodiesel, it is refined using a hydrogen treatment process, which makes it similar to fossil diesel.
It means HVO behaves like diesel but burns cleaner. It does not contain oxygen or contaminants that cause engine problems. It is important because many UK businesses worry about performance or maintenance issues when switching fuels.
Compatibility with Existing Equipment
One of the biggest questions you may have is whether HVO will work with your current equipment. In most cases, the answer is yes. However, you should never assume this without checking. HVO is compatible with most modern diesel engines, generators, boilers, and vehicles used by UK businesses.
However, you should still review engine manuals, speak with equipment suppliers, or consult fuel specialists. It is particularly important if you operate older machinery or specialist equipment. You also need to think about warranties because manufacturers require confirmation before approving alternative fuels. Taking time to confirm compatibility helps you avoid costly mistakes, unexpected downtime, or warranty issues.
Storage and Handling Requirements
You should review how to store and handle HVO. The good news is that it can usually be stored in existing diesel tanks without any major changes. It is stable, does not absorb water easily, and has a longer shelf life than traditional diesel. However, you should still inspect your tanks and fuel lines before switching.
If your system contains old diesel residue or sludge, it may need cleaning. HVO has a cleaning effect and can loosen old deposits, which may block filters in the early stages. Planning for filter checks and routine monitoring helps prevent such issues. By understanding storage requirements early, you protect your equipment and ensure fuel quality remains consistent.
Environmental Benefits
Many UK businesses switch to HVO fuel to reduce their environmental impact. However, you should fully understand what those benefits are. HVO can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil diesel, depending on the feedstock used. It also produces lower nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions, which reduces air pollution.
It not only helps you meet sustainability goals but also ensures compliance with UK environmental regulations. Cleaner emissions can support your carbon reduction targets and help you meet ESG commitments. By understanding how HVO reduces emissions, you can highlight your efforts and back them with facts.
Cost and Budget Impact
Cost is always a major factor when switching fuels. HVO may feel more expensive per litre than standard diesel. However, you should look beyond the headline price. HVO often burns more efficiently, which can lead to slightly improved fuel consumption. You should also consider indirect savings.
Cleaner combustion can reduce engine wear, lower maintenance needs, and minimise downtime. In addition, avoiding penalties linked to emissions or future restrictions can protect your long-term budget. It helps you make a balanced decision that aligns with both financial planning and sustainability goals.
Supply Reliability and Availability
Before switching, you must ensure that HVO biodiesel is reliably available for your business. In the UK, HVO supply is growing. However, availability can vary by region and supplier. You should speak with trusted fuel providers and confirm delivery schedules, minimum order quantities, and contingency plans.
A reliable supply chain ensures you are not forced to switch back to diesel unexpectedly. Planning supply in advance also helps you maintain consistency across your fleet or sites. When supply is secure, you can confidently commit to HVO without operational risk or last-minute changes.
Transition Planning
You should plan the switch to HVO fuel in a controlled and structured way. Instead of changing everything at once, start with a trial phase. It often involves one generator, one site, or a small part of your fleet. You can then scale up gradually with confidence.
Switching to HVO fuel can be a practical and effective step for UK businesses. However, the decision should be based on a clear understanding, careful planning, and realistic expectations.