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Renewable Diesel (HVO)

Short explanation: Renewable Diesel (HVO) is a fossil-free alternative to conventional diesel, produced from renewable and sustainable feedstocks. It functions as a direct replacement for fossil diesel and can be used without engine modifications. It supports measurable greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction while maintaining operational performance.

With MB Energy, Renewable Diesel supply is structured around your operational needs. From bulk delivery to ongoing supply, we support reliable integration into existing fuel systems with transparent sourcing and certification.

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HVO100

Energy to move

What is Renewable Diesel (HVO100)?

Renewable Diesel, also known as HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), is a paraffinic diesel fuel produced from renewable and sustainable feedstocks including waste oils, residues, and advanced biomass. While the term HVO originates from vegetable-based feedstocks, current production includes a wider range of non-fossil sources.  

It is classified under BS EN 15940 and is designed as a drop-in fuel replacement for conventional diesel. Its chemical structure is very similar to fossil diesel, allowing it to be used in pure form or blended with fossil diesel and/or FAME without requiring engine modifications.

Renewable Diesel is widely approved by vehicle manufacturers, although equipment-specific approval should always be confirmed. Its compatibility enables straightforward adoption across existing fleets and infrastructure.  

From an operational perspective, it offers improved combustion characteristics and cold performance, supporting reliable use across a wide range of conditions.  

Product Benefits

Drop-in compatibility

Renewable Diesel can be used without engine modifications. It integrates directly into existing diesel systems, reducing transition complexity.

Emissions reduction potential

Depending on feedstock and production method, Renewable Diesel can deliver significant greenhouse gas emissions savings compared to fossil diesel.

Improved combustion performance

A higher cetane number supports more efficient fuel burn, which can contribute to improved engine performance and reduced engine noise.

Cold weather reliability

Enhanced cold flow properties reduce the risk of gelling, filter plugging and clouding compared to fossil diesel and FAME.

Storage and stability

Higher oxidative stability enables longer storage periods, with shelf life extending significantly beyond conventional diesel.

Reduced impurities

Low levels of sulphur, aromatics and other impurities reduce risks such as injector fouling and oil contamination.

Typical Applications

Renewable Diesel can be used wherever conventional diesel is currently applied.

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Transport fleets

Suitable for on-road and off-road diesel vehicles. Enables emission reduction without operational disruption.

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Agriculture and machinery

Applicable for farming equipment and seasonal operations where reliability and storage stability are critical.

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Construction equipment

Supports heavy-duty machinery with improved combustion and reduced risk of cold-weather issues.

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Commercial heating

Used in commercial boilers as a direct alternative to mineral diesel.

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Marine and inland waterways

Usable in boats and inland vessels, subject to manufacturer approval.

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Industry & ESG-driven companies

For companies with Scope 1 reduction targets, HVO offers an option that can be implemented immediately without any capital expenditure.

Technical specifications of HVO100

Renewable Diesel is defined by recognised fuel standards and measurable performance characteristics. Compared to conventional diesel and FAME-based fuels, it offers distinct chemical and operational properties.

Standards and Approvals

Renewable Diesel complies with BS EN 15940, the standard for paraffinic diesel fuels. It is approved by a wide range of vehicle manufacturers for use, subject to individual OEM validation. Its drop-in capability enables use without engine modification.

Emissions Classification

Renewable Diesel can deliver greenhouse gas emission savings of up to 90%, calculated in accordance with Renewable Energy Directive methodologies. Actual savings depend on feedstock origin and production pathway, with typical values for waste-based feedstocks reaching between 80–90%.

Chemical Composition

Renewable Diesel is a paraffinic fuel free from FAME. It contains no sulphur, aromatics, or metals, with only trace levels permitted under BS EN 15940. This results in a cleaner-burning fuel compared to conventional diesel and biodiesel blends.

Ignition Quality (Cetane Number)

Renewable Diesel has a higher cetane number than fossil diesel. This supports improved combustion efficiency, more consistent ignition, and smoother engine operation.

Cold Flow Properties

The fuel demonstrates superior cold flow behaviour compared to fossil diesel and FAME. This reduces the risk of gelling, clouding, and filter plugging in low-temperature conditions.

Storage Stability

Renewable Diesel offers high oxidative stability. Compared to conventional diesel and biodiesel, it degrades more slowly, enabling extended storage periods of up to 10 years under appropriate conditions.

Product variants of Renewable Diesel (HVO)

Renewable Diesel is available in different supply and application configurations depending on operational requirements, blending strategies, and infrastructure setup.

Neat Renewable Diesel (HVO100)

Pure Renewable Diesel for maximum emission reduction.

Used as a direct replacement for fossil diesel where full compatibility is confirmed. Suitable for fleets and operations aiming to maximise GHG emission savings.

Blended Renewable Diesel

Combination of Renewable Diesel with fossil diesel or FAME.

Supports gradual integration into existing fuel strategies while maintaining operational flexibility and cost control.

Supply & Delivery

MB Energy supplies Renewable Diesel across commercial, industrial, distributor and retail sectors.

  • Bulk fuel supply for commercial and industrial operations
  • Structured delivery aligned with operational demand
  • Coverage across the UK supply network
  • Integration into existing fuel storage and logistics systems

Our approach focuses on supply reliability, clear planning and consistent fuel quality across deliveries.

How ‘renewable’ is Renewable Diesel?

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Renewable Diesel is produced from renewable feedstocks such as waste oils, residues and animal fats.

Emission savings depend on feedstock and production method, typically reaching 80–90% compared to conventional diesel.

Its higher cetane number can also support lower tailpipe emissions.

FAQ

Is Renewable Diesel the same as biodiesel?

No. Renewable Diesel and biodiesel (FAME – Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) are both biofuels, but they differ in production method, chemical composition and performance. Renewable Diesel is a paraffinic fuel with a structure similar to fossil diesel, while FAME has different chemical characteristics. Renewable Diesel offers improved cold performance, longer shelf life and is not susceptible to bacterial growth in the same way as biodiesel. 

Where can Renewable Diesel be used?

Renewable Diesel can be used in most applications where conventional diesel is used, including transport fleets, commercial boilers, agricultural machinery, construction equipment and marine vessels. However, approval depends on the specific engine or equipment. Many OEMs approve HVO use, but confirmation with the manufacturer is recommended before use. 

Does Renewable Diesel contain palm oil?

Supply chains vary globally. Within our supply, no palm oil-derived material is used in the production of Renewable Diesel.

What is the shelf life of Renewable Diesel?

Renewable Diesel offers extended storage stability compared to mineral diesel. While conventional diesel typically has a shelf life of around one year, Renewable Diesel can be stored for significantly longer periods, with up to 10 years possible under suitable conditions.

What is the Renewable Fuel Assurance Scheme (RFAS)?

The RFAS is an independent scheme managed by the ZEMO Partnership. It verifies greenhouse gas emissions and sustainability claims associated with renewable fuels. The scheme provides fleet operators with an independent framework to assess the sustainability of fuel supply chains and feedstocks.

Can Renewable Diesel be blended with conventional diesel?

Yes. Renewable Diesel can be used in its pure form or blended with fossil diesel and/or FAME. This flexibility allows businesses to integrate it gradually or according to operational and commercial requirements.

Are engine modifications required?

No engine modifications are required in most cases due to the chemical similarity between Renewable Diesel and fossil diesel. However, it is recommended to confirm compatibility with the equipment manufacturer before use.

Safety data sheet HVO

Safety Data Sheet