Viva Energy, responsible for supplying approximately 25% of Australia’s fuel, is making significant strides in the transition to sustainable energy. At the forefront of these efforts is renewable diesel, also referred to as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). This innovative fuel offers a practical, low-carbon alternative tailored to meet the needs of the construction industry.
Produced from materials such as used cooking oil and animal fats, renewable diesel is developed using advanced hydrotreating technology. This process results in a product with a dramatically reduced carbon footprint when compared to conventional diesel.
Traditional diesel has long been a cornerstone of construction machinery and equipment, but it is also a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable diesel stands out by offering significant emissions reductions across its lifecycle, providing a more sustainable path forward for the sector.
Robert Cavicchiolo, Viva Energy’s Carbon Solutions Manager, emphasises the company’s dedication to supporting businesses in their journey towards sustainability.
“A growing number of organisations are prioritising their decarbonisation strategies and actively seeking ways to lower emissions across their operations,” explains Cavicchiolo. “With our products often contributing significantly to our customers’ scope one emissions, we play a critical role in helping them achieve their environmental targets.”
For the construction industry, renewable diesel offers compelling advantages. Its high cetane number ensures efficient and cleaner combustion, potentially enhancing engine performance while lowering exhaust particulates and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. Moreover, its superior low-temperature performance makes it a dependable choice in varied climates, ensuring machinery operates smoothly even in challenging conditions.
One of the most attractive features of renewable diesel is its compatibility with existing equipment. As a direct replacement for traditional diesel, it does not require modifications to engines, storage tanks, or handling systems. This seamless integration allows businesses to adopt renewable diesel without additional costs or operational downtime.
Cavicchiolo highlights this ease of use: “Switching to renewable fuels like HVO doesn’t disrupt existing machinery or infrastructure. It’s a straightforward, drop-in solution, but we always recommend checking with equipment manufacturers for specific guidance.”
Renewable diesel is suitable for a wide range of applications, from on-road vehicles and off-road machinery like excavators and cranes to marine infrastructure and power generation. Its adaptability reinforces its value as a sustainable option for diverse construction needs.
“Renewable diesel integrates seamlessly with current diesel systems, including storage and dispensing equipment,” adds Cavicchiolo. “With our technical expertise, we assist customers in implementing this fuel effectively across their operations.”
Viva Energy maintains rigorous standards to ensure the quality and consistency of its renewable diesel. The product complies with recognised fuel standards and is certified under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) scheme, ensuring traceability and adherence to strict sustainability criteria.
Cavicchiolo explains: “ISCC certification guarantees authenticity and traceability throughout the supply chain. This is crucial for customers making sustainability claims, whether voluntarily or as part of government reporting requirements.”
However, a current limitation is the reliance on imports, as Australia does not yet produce renewable diesel domestically. Despite this, the environmental and operational benefits make it a valuable investment for construction firms committed to reducing their carbon footprint.
Unlike longer-term alternatives such as electrification or hydrogen fuel cells, which require significant infrastructure changes, renewable diesel offers an immediate way to cut emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.
“We’re dedicated to helping our customers identify practical solutions and achieve their carbon reduction goals,” says Cavicchiolo. “Our national network of supply points ensures timely access to renewable diesel, enabling seamless integration into their operations.”
By adopting renewable diesel from Viva Energy, construction companies can take meaningful steps towards a lower-carbon future. This innovative fuel provides an effective, short-to-medium-term solution, supporting the sector’s sustainability goals without compromising performance or reliability.
With Viva Energy as a partner, businesses can confidently embrace this cleaner alternative, reducing their environmental impact and leading the way in the transition to a more sustainable construction industry.
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