Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel is gaining traction in the UK as a cleaner, greener alternative to traditional fossil-based diesel. Thanks to its reduced carbon footprint—up to 90% lower than standard diesel—HVO fuel is quickly becoming the go-to solution for eco-conscious businesses and households alike. However, while its environmental advantages are commendable, HVO is not without its challenges, particularly in terms of storage and handling.
In this in-depth, human-generated guide, we explore the lesser-known but critical storage and handling issues with HVO fuel, tailored specifically for a UK audience. Whether you’re a farmer, fleet operator, construction professional, or domestic user, understanding these aspects can save you money, maintain fuel quality, and ensure regulatory compliance.
1. Understanding HVO Fuel Composition
Before diving into storage concerns, it's important to understand what HVO fuel actually is. Unlike FAME-based biodiesel, HVO is made through a process called hydrotreatment, where waste fats and vegetable oils are refined into a high-quality, paraffinic diesel alternative. It’s free from oxygen and esters, making it more stable than traditional biodiesel.
Yet despite its superior quality, HVO fuel is not completely immune to storage or handling problems—especially when exposed to certain environmental or operational conditions.
2. Water Contamination: The Silent Degrader
One of the biggest issues with storing HVO fuel in the UK—especially in regions with high humidity or fluctuating temperatures—is water ingress. While HVO is more hydrophobic than FAME biodiesel, moisture can still seep into storage tanks through condensation, faulty seals, or venting systems.
Why it matters:
Water promotes microbial growth (diesel bug), which can lead to sludge, filter blockages, and even engine failure.
It can cause corrosion in tanks and fuel lines, particularly in steel or older plastic tanks.
Mitigation Tips:
Install water filters and separators in storage systems.
Perform regular fuel testing and tank inspections.
Keep tanks as full as possible to reduce condensation buildup.
3. Oxidation Stability and Shelf Life
While HVO boasts excellent oxidation stability compared to FAME biodiesel, long-term storage without circulation or usage can still lead to degradation. This is especially relevant for backup generators, off-road equipment, and seasonal agricultural machinery in the UK.
Signs of degradation:
Discolouration of fuel.
Presence of particulates or sludge at the bottom of the tank.
Reduced engine performance.
Recommended Action:
Store HVO fuel for no longer than 12 months without use.
Consider fuel polishing services if storing fuel long-term.
Use additives specifically formulated for HVO to enhance shelf life.
4. Compatibility with Existing Infrastructure
Although HVO is marketed as a "drop-in" fuel, not all storage tanks and fuel systems are fully compatible without modifications.
Common issues:
Older rubber seals and hoses may degrade more rapidly with HVO.
Brass or copper components may react unfavourably with paraffinic fuels.
HVO may dissolve existing diesel residues, which can clog filters during the initial switch.
What you can do:
Conduct a fuel system audit before switching to HVO.
Replace rubber components with FKM or Viton-rated materials.
Change fuel filters frequently during the first few refuels after transition.
5. Cold Weather Performance
UK winters can be unpredictable. While HVO generally performs better than biodiesel in low temperatures (with a cold filter plugging point of around -20°C), poor storage or lack of anti-waxing agents can still lead to gelling or flow issues.
Best Practices:
Use winter-grade HVO fuel during colder months.
Store tanks in sheltered or insulated areas to reduce exposure to freezing temperatures.
Use anti-waxing additives if required by your equipment manufacturer.
6. Regulatory and Safety Compliance in the UK
Storing HVO fuel on your premises requires adherence to UK regulations, especially if storing in bulk.
Regulatory Considerations:
You must comply with Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001, which apply to any storage over 200 litres.
Ensure tanks have secondary containment (bunded tanks).
Conduct environmental risk assessments, especially if you're near watercourses or protected land.
Safety Measures:
Clearly label tanks as "HVO Fuel – Paraffinic Diesel (EN 15940 Compliant)".
Train staff in safe fuel handling and spill response procedures.
Keep Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) available for emergency services.
7. Cross-Contamination Risks
When switching from red or white diesel to HVO, residual fuel left in tanks or pipelines can cause contamination. This affects the purity and performance of HVO, especially in sensitive engines.
Prevention Tips:
Fully drain and clean tanks before filling with HVO.
Flush systems where possible to avoid mixing fuel types.
Mark tanks and filling points clearly to avoid accidental cross-filling.
8. Storage Monitoring and Digital Fuel Management
As the UK embraces smarter fuel usage, adopting digital fuel management systems can greatly improve HVO storage handling.
Benefits:
Real-time fuel level monitoring.
Alerts for temperature changes or water ingress.
Streamlined compliance reporting and inventory tracking.
Conclusion
HVO fuel presents a sustainable future for the UK’s heating, transport, and agricultural sectors—but only when stored and handled correctly. While it offers better shelf life and cleaner combustion than traditional fuels, neglecting key storage practices can compromise its quality, safety, and overall performance.
By staying proactive—through regular inspections, system upgrades, and adherence to UK safety regulations—you can fully harness the benefits of HVO while avoiding common pitfalls. As with any fuel, knowledge is your best defence against downtime, inefficiency, and unexpected costs.
