Circle K Expands Access to Renewable HVO Fuel Across Ireland
Circle K has announced that its renewable diesel alternative, milesBIO HVO100, is now available to all diesel drivers at eight selected Circle K forecourts in Ireland. This marks a major expansion of the company’s low-emission fuel offering, which was previously limited to business customers and Circle K’s own fleet vehicles.
This move brings the total number of HVO-enabled locations to 30 across Ireland, making Circle K the operator of Ireland’s largest HVO refuelling network.
Why Renewable Diesel Matters in the Climate Crisis
The transport sector remains one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions in Ireland, responsible for approximately 20% of total greenhouse gas emissions. While electric vehicles (EVs) are on the rise, the diesel fleet still dominates commercial and heavy-duty transport.
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) offers a near-term solution for decarbonising this sector, particularly where electrification is not yet feasible (e.g. long-haul trucks, construction vehicles, maritime transport). By enabling a 90% reduction in CO₂ emissions, HVO fuels like milesBIO HVO100 serve as a critical “bridge technology” on the path to carbon neutrality.
What Is milesBIO HVO100?
milesBIO HVO100 is a Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel, made from waste materials and by-products from the food industry. It is a renewable diesel that can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional fossil diesel, without requiring any engine modifications.
Unlike biodiesel, HVO is chemically similar to fossil diesel, which means it can be used directly in most diesel engines with no performance loss.
The Environmental Benefits of HVO100
The main benefits of HVO100 are:
Lower CO2 Emissions
One of the most significant benefits of milesBIO HVO100 fuel is its ability to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional diesel. This is achieved through the use of renewable resources and a production process that minimises environmental impact. As businesses and individuals become more environmentally conscious, the need for sustainable fuel solutions is increasingly pressing.
Other Reduced Emissions
In addition to lower CO2 emissions, HVO100 also diminishes other harmful emissions. When combusted, it produces fewer particulates and nitrogen oxides (NOx), contributing to improved air quality. This is particularly important in urban areas, where air pollution can pose significant health risks.
HVO vs. Biodiesel: What’s the Difference?
While both biodiesel and HVO are made from renewable feedstocks (like used cooking oil or animal fats), they differ significantly in chemical structure and performance:
Feature |
Biodiesel (FAME) |
HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) |
Production Method |
Transesterification |
Hydrogenation |
Engine Compatibility |
May require blending |
Drop-in diesel replacement |
Cold Weather Use |
Limited |
Excellent |
Storage Stability |
Shorter shelf life |
Long shelf life |
HVO is often referred to as a “second-generation biofuel” due to its improved performance and wider compatibility, making it more suitable for both private motorists and fleet operators.
Where Is It Now Available?
Circle K has introduced HVO for public use at eight new sites:
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Parkway West (Dublin)
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City Avenue
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City North (M1)
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Cashel (Junction 8, M8)
-
Fermoy (Junction 14, M8)
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Kill North
-
Kill South
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N4 East (Mullingar)
These forecourts are strategically positioned along major national routes, offering greater accessibility to both private motorists and commercial operators.
Circle K’s Renewable Fuel Network
With these eight public locations added to its business refuelling network, Circle K now has 30 HVO sites nationwide.
“With milesBIO HVO100 now available at 30 locations nationwide, Circle K operates the largest HVO refuelling network in the country. Today’s announcement marks a significant step in making low-emission fuel solutions more accessible to the public and supporting motorists who want to reduce their environmental impact,” said Jonathan Diver, Senior Fuel Director at Circle K.
The company also said it plans to expand HVO availability further in the coming year.
Supporting Cleaner Transport
In addition to retail forecourts, Circle K recently announced a partnership with Irish Ferries, under which Circle K will supply milesBIO HVO100 to power the Dublin Swift ferry on its Dublin–Holyhead route starting in 2025.
This reflects Circle K’s broader push to support low-emission transport options across land and sea.
How to Identify HVO Pumps
At participating Circle K forecourts, HVO pumps are clearly branded and marked with distinctive grey nozzles, making them easy for drivers to distinguish from petrol and standard diesel.
Conclusion
Circle K’s launch of milesBIO HVO100 to the general public represents a significant step toward a cleaner, more sustainable fuel future in Ireland. With 30 locations now offering HVO and more to follow, the company is actively supporting the national shift toward low-carbon transport solutions, without requiring consumers to change their vehicles.
To learn more about Circle K’s HVO rollout or find your nearest HVO-enabled forecourt, visit circlek.ie.
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