FAQ’s About HVO and other fuel

HVO Fuel FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Renewable Diesel and Other Questions You May Have


HVO fuel (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is a renewable diesel alternative growing in popularity across the UK. This FAQ answers common questions about HVO fuel, including cost, availability, and how it compares to diesel.

Clear answers to the questions we’re asked every day — from pricing and delivery to fuel types and sustainability. Whether you’re running a business or managing heating at home, we’re here to make fuel simple, transparent and reliable.

HVO Questions

HVO fuel (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is a renewable diesel alternative made from sustainable raw materials such as used cooking oils, animal fats, and vegetable oils. Unlike traditional biodiesel (FAME), HVO is produced through a hydrogenation process, resulting in a high-quality, paraffinic fuel that meets EN 15940 standards.

HVO fuel can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to standard diesel and is widely used as a drop-in replacement in diesel engines across transport, construction, agriculture, and commercial sectors.

HVO fuel offers several advantages over conventional diesel:

  • Lower emissions: Up to 90% reduction in net CO₂ emissions
  • Cleaner burning: Reduces particulates and NOx emissions
  • No engine modifications required: Works as a direct replacement
  • Improved storage stability: Longer shelf life than traditional diesel
  • Reduced odour: Less smell during storage and use

While HVO is typically more expensive than standard diesel, many businesses choose it to reduce their environmental impact and support sustainability targets.

We can assess suitability and supply options.

Yes — in most cases, HVO can be used as a direct replacement for diesel without any engine modifications. It is compatible with the majority of modern diesel engines and fuel systems.

Many leading engine manufacturers, including Volvo, Scania, and Mercedes-Benz, approve the use of HVO fuel. However, it’s always recommended to check your manufacturer’s guidance or speak to your fuel supplier before switching.

The price of HVO fuel in the UK is typically higher than standard diesel due to production costs and limited supply. On average, HVO can cost 10–20% more per litre than conventional diesel, although this can vary depending on market conditions and volume purchased.

Despite the higher upfront cost, many organisations find value in HVO through carbon reduction, improved ESG performance, and future-proofing against environmental regulations.

HVO fuel is available from specialist fuel suppliers across the UK. At Tate Oil, we supply HVO fuel to businesses throughout Yorkshire and beyond, with reliable delivery and expert support.

If you’re considering switching to HVO, our team can advise on suitability, pricing, and supply options tailored to your operation.

👉 call us now on 01943467444

🔥 General Fuel Questions

We supply a full range of fuels including:

We work with commercial, agricultural and domestic customers across the UK.

White diesel (DERV) is used in road vehicles and includes full duty.
Red diesel is rebated fuel, dyed red, and is only permitted for off-road use such as agriculture, construction and certain industrial applications.

Since the 2022 rule changes, many sectors can no longer use red diesel, so it’s important to check compliance.

We can assess suitability and supply options.

HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is a renewable diesel alternative made from waste materials. It can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to standard diesel.

It’s a direct replacement for diesel in most engines, meaning no infrastructure or engine changes are required.

Kerosene (28-second oil) is primarily used for:

  • Domestic heating systems
  • Boilers and Aga-style cookers

It is the most common heating oil used in UK homes.

AdBlue is a fluid used in modern diesel vehicles to reduce harmful emissions. If your vehicle uses SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction), you will need AdBlue to operate correctly.

🚚 Ordering & Delivery

You can order fuel by:

  • Phone
  • Email
  • Online (if enabled)

Our team will guide you on pricing, delivery times and quantities.

Standard delivery is typically within 24–48 hours.
We also offer same-day or emergency delivery where required.

Not always. As long as:

  • We have safe access to the tank
  • The tank is clearly identifiable

We can complete the delivery without you being present.

We prioritise run-outs and aim to deliver as quickly as possible. However, we always recommend monitoring levels or using telemetry to avoid disruption.

Yes. We operate a mixed fleet, including smaller tankers for restricted or rural locations.

💷 Pricing & Payment

Fuel pricing is made up of several components:

  • Wholesale market price (linked to Platts)
  • Biofuel obligations (RTFO)
  • Distribution and logistics
  • Duty and VAT

Prices change daily based on global oil markets and exchange rates.

Fuel prices are influenced by:

  • Crude oil markets
  • Supply and demand
  • Geopolitical events
  • Currency exchange rates

This is why prices can change quickly, even day to day.

Yes. We offer credit facilities for approved commercial customers, allowing flexible payment terms.

In some cases, yes. We can discuss fixed pricing or forward buying options depending on volume and market conditions.

🏢 Business Fuel Accounts

With a Tate Oil account, you get:

  • Dedicated account management
  • Reliable supply
  • Transparent pricing
  • Access to fuel management tools

Yes. We support businesses with single or multiple locations and can centralise ordering and reporting.

Yes — we work with customers to:

  • Optimise delivery schedules
  • Improve storage efficiency
  • Introduce alternative fuels like HVO
  • Provide usage reporting