Agricultural fuel oils are a cornerstone of modern farming in the UK. With farms relying on tractors, combines, grain dryers, irrigation systems, and heating equipment, fuel is essential to daily operations. In the UK, specific fuel types—especially red diesel, kerosene, and newer renewable alternatives like HVO—are used across agriculture to power equipment efficiently and cost-effectively.
1. Red Diesel (Gas Oil)
Red diesel is the most commonly used agricultural fuel oil in the UK. It is a rebated form of regular diesel, dyed red to distinguish it from standard (white) diesel. The key advantages of red diesel include:
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Lower fuel duty: Farms benefit from reduced tax rates, making it significantly cheaper than road diesel.
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High efficiency: Suitable for use in tractors, harvesters, generators, and other off-road machinery.
Important Note: Red diesel is strictly regulated. It can only be used in agricultural vehicles and machines for legitimate farming purposes. HMRC conducts regular checks to prevent misuse.
2. Kerosene
Also known as heating oil, kerosene is widely used in the agricultural sector for:
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Heating livestock buildings and greenhouses
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Fueling grain dryers and other heating equipment
Its clean-burning characteristics and relatively low cost make it ideal for maintaining temperature-sensitive environments.
3. HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil)
HVO is a renewable diesel alternative made from used cooking oils and animal fats. It's gaining popularity in the UK farming sector due to its environmental benefits:
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Reduces carbon emissions by up to 90%
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Biodegradable and non-toxic
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Compatible with most diesel engines without modification
Though more expensive than red diesel, HVO is becoming a viable option for farms prioritising sustainability and preparing for stricter emissions regulations.
Fuel Delivery and Storage
Most UK farms receive fuel via bulk delivery from specialist suppliers. These suppliers also provide:
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Bunded fuel tanks to meet environmental regulations
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Fuel monitoring systems for efficient management
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Emergency delivery services during peak farming seasons
Popular suppliers include Certas Energy, Crown Oil, Watson Fuels, and Rix Petroleum, all offering tailored agricultural packages across the UK.
Environmental Regulations and Future Outlook
The UK government is gradually tightening rules around fuel usage and emissions. While red diesel remains permissible for agricultural use, other sectors have seen restrictions. This shift is pushing the farming industry toward:
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Cleaner fuels like HVO
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On-farm renewable energy sources (solar, wind, biomass)
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Improved fuel efficiency through equipment upgrades
Farmers are encouraged to plan ahead, adopt greener fuel practices, and consult with suppliers about transitioning to lower-carbon alternatives.
Conclusion
Agricultural fuel oils in the UK play a vital role in keeping farms productive and efficient. Whether it's cost-effective red diesel, heating kerosene, or low-emission HVO, the right fuel choice can improve performance while helping farms meet environmental goals. With reliable suppliers and evolving fuel technologies, UK agriculture is well-positioned to stay powered and sustainable into the future.
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