HVO Fuel Emissions Vs Diesel

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel is a type of renewable diesel produced by hydroprocessing vegetable oils or animal fats. This process removes impurities and saturates the carbon chains with hydrogen, resulting in a chemically similar fuel to petroleum diesel but much cleaner in terms of emissions. This process differs from the traditional methods of making biodiesel (FAME), which is produced using a transesterification process.  

Benefits of HVO Fuel

  1. Reduced Emissions: HVO fuel significantly reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to conventional diesel. It emits less CO2, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide.
  2. Compatibility: It can be used in diesel engines without modification, making it a drop-in replacement for regular diesel.
  3. Sustainability: Since HVO is made from renewable resources, its use helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

GHG Reporting Figures for the UK between EN590 Diesel and HVO

Regarding GHG reporting of HVO Fuel Emissions Vs Diesel. HVO fuel generally shows substantially reduced carbon emissions compared to traditional EN590 diesel. The figures can vary based on the feedstock used and the production process, but typically, the reductions can be summarised as follows:

  • EN590 Diesel: According to UK Government GHG Conversion Factors, conventional diesel has a carbon intensity of about 2.5441 kg CO2e per litre.
  • HVO Fuel: The carbon intensity can vary but is often significantly lower. For instance, using typical feedstocks and considering a well-to-wheel analysis, HVO can reduce GHG emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional diesel. This can translate to carbon intensities as low as about 0.256 kg CO2e per litre, depending on specific conditions and calculations.


These reductions are crucial for achieving decarbonisation goals, especially in transportation and logistics, where diesel engines are prevalent. The shift to HVO is a significant step toward reducing carbon footprints across various industries that utilise diesel fuel in their operations.