In a significant step towards a greener maritime industry, Highland Fuels has deployed its first consignment of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) at Montrose Port in Scotland. This marks the first-time renewable fuel will be available quayside for port users in Montrose and possibly the first time HVO will be available quayside for marine operations in Scotland.

The HVO will be initially used by the Montrose Port Authority pilot boats, demonstrating the Port’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. Additionally, the environmentally friendly fuel will be available for other port users, providing them with a cleaner alternative to traditional marine diesel.

“This deployment of a renewable and sustainable biofuel underscores our dedication to sustainability and decarbonisation efforts within the maritime sector,” said Dan McDermott, Sales Manager at Highland Fuels. “By offering a green fuel option at Montrose Port, we are not only continuing our mission of offering more environmentally friendly and sustainable fuels across Scotland but also enabling marine and port users to join us on the path to a greener future.”

“Our plant and machinery already run on HVO fuel, but extending its use to our pilot boats represents a significant step forward in our efforts to reduce emissions. This aligns perfectly with our goal of becoming Scotland’s greenest port and supports our tenants and port users in their decarbonisation endeavors,” said Ross Marshall, Harbour Master at Montrose Port Authority.

HVO is one of many ways to blend and manufacture biofuels and forms one of the available options from Highland Fuels. Produced from vegetable oils, HVO and other biofuel blends can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional marine diesel. It offers a cleaner burning alternative with lower sulphur content and minimal particulates, contributing to improved air quality around the Port.

Highland Fuels is committed to leading the way towards a more sustainable future. The deployment of HVO at Montrose Port builds upon Highland Fuel’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable practices within the Scottish domestic, commercial & maritime industries. They look forward to working with Montrose Port Authority and their clients as well as industry partners to explore further opportunities for reducing emissions and fostering a sustainable maritime sector in Scotland.