HVO: The Sustainable Diesel Alternative for Diesel Generators in Data Centers

Did you know that there is a more sustainable alternative to power the standby power systems of your data center, that reduces CO2 emissions up to 90%?

HVO stands for Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, and it’s a renewable diesel substitute made of paraffinic hydrocarbon. It’s produced without fossil resources by processing renewable waste lipids that are derived from the same feedstocks used to produce biodiesel. However, instead of using the transesterification process, HVO is produced via hydrotreatment process.

As a clean-burning diesel alternative, HVO is one of the most environmentally friendly options available. It’s completely biodegradable, non-hazardous and odourless. Additionally, HVO performs efficiently even in temperatures as low as -30 degrees. Its minimal carbon content helps data centers meet carbon reduction targets. When using HVO fuel instead of diesel, NOx emissions are comparable and PM emissions are lower.

Switching to HVO is hassle-free because no modification is required to your existing diesel engine, auxiliary systems, or other equipment. HVO can be blended with diesel, allowing you to mix it with your current diesel stock without issues. Due to HVO’s lower energy density, you might notice a slight increase in fuel consumption and a 1–2% reduction in power, but these differences are minimal.

Unlike biodiesel, the absence of oxygenated groups in HVO helps improve the fuel’s oxidation stability, making the fuel resistant to bacterial growth. It can be stored for up to 10 years, which makes it great for on-site standby power systems where fuel consumption is not continuous. Moreover, HVO is suitable for use in nearly all types of engines without modification, whereas biodiesel often has compatibility issues with certain engine types.

By switching to HVO, you can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize your data center’s environmental impact. All our diesel generators are compatible with HVO—no modifications are required. Let’s meet the data center sustainability goals together!

Learn more about our data center backup power solutions.