Can I Use HVO Instead of Kerosene? – A Complete Guide for UK Homeowners and Businesses

As the UK continues its journey toward net zero emissions, many homeowners and businesses are exploring greener alternatives to traditional heating fuels. One question that has gained significant attention in recent years is: “Can I use HVO instead of kerosene?”

The short answer is yes—in many cases, you can use HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) as a direct or partial replacement for kerosene. However, there are important technical, environmental, and regulatory factors to understand before making the switch.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about using HVO instead of kerosene in the UK, including compatibility, benefits, costs, and the practical steps for conversion.

What Is HVO Fuel?

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is a renewable, fossil-free fuel made from waste vegetable oils and animal fats through a process known as hydrotreatment. Unlike traditional biodiesel (FAME), which can cause storage and performance issues, HVO is chemically almost identical to fossil diesel but burns far cleaner.

HVO meets the European standard EN 15940 for paraffinic diesel fuels. It’s suitable for use in diesel engines, generators, and heating systems—with minor or sometimes no modifications. Because of its high stability and purity, HVO doesn’t degrade as quickly as biodiesel and is virtually free from sulphur, oxygen, and aromatics.

What Is Kerosene and How Is It Used in the UK?

Kerosene, also known as heating oil or 28-second oil, has been the primary fuel for off-grid homes and rural businesses in the UK for decades. It powers boilers, cookers (like Aga or Rayburn), and industrial heaters.

Traditional kerosene is derived from crude oil and produces carbon dioxide when burned, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. While it’s reliable and widely available, the environmental pressure to reduce fossil fuel use has prompted many consumers to look for renewable replacements like HVO.

Can HVO Replace Kerosene Directly?

In many cases, yes, HVO can replace kerosene, but there are a few key considerations.

1. Boiler Compatibility

   • Many modern oil-fired boilers can be adapted to run on HVO with minimal adjustments, such as changing the fuel nozzle or recalibrating the burner.

   • Some newer boilers, especially those manufactured after 2016, may already be compatible or can be converted easily.

2. System Cleaning and Maintenance

   • Before switching, the system may need a professional clean to remove kerosene residues.

   • This ensures the new HVO fuel doesn’t react with leftover fossil residues and maintains optimal combustion efficiency.

3. Fuel Supply

   • Not all suppliers in the UK currently stock HVO, but its availability is expanding rapidly as more distributors recognise demand for low-carbon alternatives.

In summary, you can use HVO as a kerosene alternative in heating systems and industrial equipment—with professional guidance and sometimes a few modifications.

Environmental Benefits of Using HVO

Switching from kerosene to HVO can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and improve air quality. Let’s break down the environmental advantages:

1. Up to 90% Reduction in CO₂ Emissions

   • HVO is made from waste materials and does not rely on fossil extraction. Its lifecycle emissions are dramatically lower, helping homes and businesses reduce their overall carbon output.

2. Renewable and Sustainable

   • Since HVO is produced from renewable feedstocks (used cooking oils, animal fats, etc.), it supports a circular economy by giving waste products a second life.

3. Cleaner Combustion

   • HVO burns cleaner than kerosene, producing fewer particulates, NOx (nitrogen oxides), and sulphur emissions. This not only benefits the environment but also improves indoor and outdoor air quality.

4. Improved Storage Stability

   • Unlike biodiesel, which can oxidise or form sediments over time, HVO remains stable in storage for years. It’s ideal for rural properties that store heating oil for long periods.

Financial Considerations – Is HVO More Expensive?

At present, HVO tends to cost more per litre than kerosene, typically ranging between 20–30% higher, depending on supplier and order size.

However, this gap is expected to narrow as production volumes grow and government incentives for renewable fuels expand.

It’s also worth considering the hidden savings:

• Lower maintenance costs due to cleaner burning fuel.

• Longer equipment lifespan.

• Future protection from carbon taxes or fossil fuel levies.

Over time, as fossil fuel restrictions tighten in the UK, switching early to HVO could prove a wise long-term investment.

HVO Availability in the United Kingdom

The UK has seen rapid growth in renewable fuel distribution networks. While kerosene is still more widely available, HVO supply infrastructure is expanding.

Several fuel distributors across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland now offer HVO for:

• Domestic heating

• Commercial boilers

• Agricultural machinery

• Off-road vehicles and generators

The UK and Ireland Fuel Distributors Association (UKIFDA) has been collaborating with boiler manufacturers to test and certify HVO compatibility across major brands. Trials in Cornwall and Northern Ireland have shown excellent results—reducing carbon emissions without sacrificing heating performance.

How to Convert a Heating System from Kerosene to HVO

If you’re considering switching your home or business from kerosene to HVO, here’s what the process typically involves:

1. Consult a Certified Heating Engineer

   • Only a qualified OFTEC-registered technician should handle the conversion. They’ll inspect your boiler and confirm whether modifications are needed.

2. Tank Cleaning and Preparation

   • The fuel storage tank should be cleaned to remove sludge, water, and kerosene residues. This ensures fuel purity and prevents contamination.

3. Burner Adjustment

   • The engineer may replace the nozzle and recalibrate fuel pressure settings to match HVO’s combustion properties.

4. Testing and Certification

   • Once adjusted, the system will be tested to ensure safe and efficient operation. You’ll receive documentation for compliance and insurance purposes.

In many cases, the conversion takes only a few hours and costs relatively little compared to the long-term environmental benefits.

Government Policy and the Future of HVO in the UK

The UK government has committed to phasing out high-carbon heating fuels as part of its Net Zero Strategy. Although direct financial incentives for HVO heating aren’t yet widely available, pilot schemes and regional grants have started to appear.

Industry bodies like OFTEC, UKIFDA, and Future Ready Fuel are actively campaigning for HVO to be recognised as a mainstream renewable heating solution. Their goal is to make HVO available to the 1.5 million off-grid homes currently reliant on kerosene.

As policy evolves, HVO could play a major role in decarbonising rural heating—offering a practical, low-disruption pathway to net zero without the need for expensive heat pump installations.

Advantages of Switching to HVO Over Other Alternatives

While electric heat pumps and biomass systems are popular renewable options, HVO offers unique advantages:

• Minimal disruption – No need to replace your existing boiler or heating system.

• Quick conversion – Most systems can be converted within a day.

• Reliable performance – Works efficiently even in cold UK winters.

• Scalable for business – Ideal for industrial or agricultural operations requiring high energy output.

HVO bridges the gap between fossil fuels and full electrification, offering an immediate reduction in emissions while maintaining the reliability of traditional heating.

Potential Drawbacks and Limitations

Despite its benefits, HVO isn’t perfect. Here are some considerations to bear in mind:

• Higher cost per litre compared to kerosene.

• Limited availability in some rural areas (though improving).

• Supply chain reliance on imported feedstocks, though sustainability standards like ISCC help ensure traceability.

Nonetheless, for those prioritising carbon reduction and future-proof energy choices, these challenges are often outweighed by long-term benefits.

Final Thoughts

So, can you use HVO instead of kerosene in the UK?
Absolutely—but it’s important to do so safely and correctly.

With minimal boiler modifications, HVO can serve as a clean, renewable, and efficient alternative to kerosene. It offers up to 90% carbon reduction, improved air quality, and future-proof energy security—without the major expense of replacing your heating system.

As the UK accelerates its transition toward renewable energy, HVO stands out as a practical and immediate solution for rural homes and off-grid properties.

If you’re ready to lower your carbon footprint without compromising comfort, now is the time to explore HVO heating. Speak to your local fuel distributor or OFTEC-registered engineer to find out how you can make the switch today.