Renewable Energy
HVO: How is it Made?

In today’s push for greener, more sustainable energy sources, Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil is gaining momentum as a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel. But how is HVO made? Let’s break it down step by step.
From Waste
1. Capturing Carbon Through Plants
The process starts with nature itself. Plants absorb CO2 from the air through photosynthesis, combining carbon dioxide with water and sunlight to grow. This natural carbon capture forms the basis of HVO’s renewable cycle.
2. Exchange Rates
Next, raw materials extracted from plants, like rapeseed or sunflower oil, are used in food production. These oils help cook meals in kitchens and food factories across the globe.
3. Collecting Waste Oils
Once cooking is done, the used oils, along with residues and oily wastewater that would typically be discarded, are collected. Instead of becoming waste, these materials get a second life.
4. The Hydrotreatment Process
The collected waste materials are then transported to specialised factories. Here, they undergo a hydrotreatment process — a chemical reaction involving hydrogen — that transforms the oils into high-quality, renewable diesel known as HVO. This process removes impurities and enhances the fuel’s performance, making it a reliable substitute for traditional diesel.
5. Shipping HVO to Ireland
After production, HVO fuel is shipped to Ireland, where Certa commercially distributes it as a renewable alternative to mineral diesel and other fossil fuels. With a fleet of over 120 tankers and depots strategically placed across the country, Certa ensures businesses can seamlessly transition to this greener fuel.
Why Choose HVO?
HVO not only cuts carbon emissions by up to 90%, but it’s also a drop-in replacement — meaning no engine modifications are needed. It burns cleaner, reduces particulate emissions, and supports the circular economy by turning waste into fuel.
As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, switching to HVO is an easy and impactful way to reduce your carbon footprint. Certa is proud to lead the charge, delivering HVO to businesses across Ireland and helping build a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
Want to learn more about how HVO can benefit your business? Get in touch with us today at [email protected] or visit https://certaireland.ie/business/hvo/