As businesses across the United Kingdom face rising pressure to cut emissions, cleaner fuel alternatives are becoming more than a trend — they’re a strategic necessity. Among the most promising solutions is Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a renewable diesel replacement that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90%. For organisations dependent on diesel — from construction and logistics to agriculture and standby generators — switching to HVO offers a practical route toward sustainability without costly infrastructure changes.
But how exactly do you transition from diesel to HVO smoothly? After two decades of writing in the energy and sustainability space, I’ve seen many companies make the shift successfully — and a few who stumbled due to poor preparation. This guide will walk you through everything UK businesses should know, step-by-step, to switch from diesel to HVO efficiently and confidently.
What Makes HVO a Practical Diesel Replacement?
Before diving into the switching process, it’s worth understanding why HVO has gained such momentum in the UK.
HVO is a second-generation biofuel, produced from waste-based or sustainable feedstocks. Unlike traditional biodiesel (FAME), HVO is fully hydrotreated, meaning it mirrors the chemical structure of fossil diesel and can be used as a drop-in fuel.
That means:
- No engine modifications
- No additional storage equipment
- No blending required
- Improved cold-weather performance
- Longer storage stability
In short, HVO offers a low-effort pathway to cutting emissions without the operational headaches that earlier biofuels created.
Step-by-Step: How to Switch from Diesel to HVO in the UK
Switching fuels may sound complex, but the transition is surprisingly straightforward when you follow the right steps. Here’s a detailed breakdown.
1. Confirm Equipment Compatibility
Almost all modern diesel engines — including HGVs, vans, plant machinery, and generators — are compatible with HVO. Manufacturers such as Volvo, Scania, Mercedes-Benz, JCB, and Caterpillar have already approved it for many models.
What to check:
- Your engine or generator’s manufacturer guidelines
- Any warranty or service agreement conditions
- Whether you need dealer confirmation (not always essential but recommended for peace of mind)
For older equipment, a quick consultation with a technician or manufacturer can rule out any concerns.
Good news: In most cases, if it runs on EN590 diesel, it will run on HVO without issues.
2. Assess Your Storage Tanks
One of HVO’s advantages is that it can be stored in the same tanks used for diesel. However, before switching, evaluate the condition of your storage system.
Check for:
- Sediment build-up
- Water contamination
- Corrosion or tank wear
If your diesel tanks haven’t been cleaned or inspected for several years, this is a perfect opportunity to schedule a professional check. Clean tanks lead to cleaner fuel performance — no matter what type of fuel you use.
This is especially important for businesses running:
- Standby generators
- Large fleet depots
- On-site refuelling operations
- Agricultural tanks
3. Decide Whether to Use a Full Drain or Drop-In Replacement
You have two options when switching:
Option A: Drop-In Replacement (Most Common)
This allows you to simply top up tanks or machinery with HVO on top of existing diesel.
Pros:
- Zero downtime
- Fastest and easiest method
- No need to waste existing diesel
Since HVO and diesel mix safely, this is suitable for most operational environments.
Option B: Tank Drain and Clean
If you want to run on 100% HVO immediately and ensure maximum purity, you can drain the tank completely.
Pros:
- Full environmental benefit from day one
- Ideal for critical generators and sensitive engines
Note: This method adds cost and time but ensures optimal fuel quality.
4. Update Your Fuel Management Strategy
Once you switch to HVO, your fuel behaviour changes — mostly for the better.
Here’s what to factor into your updated approach:
- Longer storage life: HVO can last up to 10 years, unlike diesel, which begins to degrade much sooner.
- Better winter performance: Lower freezing and cloud points make it reliable for UK winters.
- Cleaner burn: You may notice reduced engine noise, smoother operation, and fewer filter changes.
If you use telemetry or fuel-monitoring systems, they may need a quick update to log HVO as a fuel type.
5. Train Your Team
Even though HVO is simple to use, it’s important that your staff understand the change.
Key messages for drivers, operators, and engineers:
- HVO handles almost exactly like diesel
- Safety procedures remain the same
- Refuelling protocols do not change
- Label all tanks and bowsers clearly to avoid confusion
Training ensures consistency and reduces the chance of mixing fuel for the wrong fleet or generator.
6. Start with a Pilot Rollout (Optional but Recommended)
For larger organisations, a pilot programme can help demonstrate benefits and build internal confidence.
You might:
- Run one depot on HVO
- Trial it with part of your fleet
- Use HVO in your backup generator first
This creates data to support a full rollout — ideal for sustainability reporting and budget planning.
7. Monitor Performance and Document Results
Once you’ve switched, keep track of:
- Fuel consumption
- Emissions reductions
- Engine performance
- Maintenance intervals
- Cost and savings
HVO’s low-emission profile can contribute to:
- ESG reporting
- Carbon-reduction commitments
- Tender applications
- Grant or compliance requirements
You may be surprised at the improvements, particularly in generator reliability and fleet emissions output.
The Business Case for Switching to HVO in the UK
Beyond environmental concerns, switching to HVO provides business value:
- Instant emissions reduction without capital investment
- Improved engine life due to cleaner combustion
- Reduced maintenance callouts
- Enhanced brand reputation and compliance readiness
With the UK pushing toward net-zero targets and tightening clean-air legislation, early adoption also helps future-proof operations.
Final Thoughts: Switching to HVO Is Easier Than You Think
Moving from diesel to HVO in the UK doesn’t require complicated engineering changes or expensive upgrades. For most companies, it’s as simple as checking compatibility, preparing your storage, and topping up. In return, you gain a cleaner, more sustainable fuel that supports both operational reliability and environmental responsibility.
In an era where sustainability is becoming a competitive advantage, switching to HVO isn’t just an environmentally conscious decision — it’s a smart business move.
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