Article

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council will switch its fleet from diesel to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), part of its 'Path to Net Zero' strategy. The decision was approved in a confidential committee session, keeping the cost implications for ratepayers undisclosed.

HVO, which does not require engine modifications, is a more expensive fuel option than diesel but can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90%. The council is replacing 77 vehicles, including bin collection lorries, at an estimated cost of £7.4 million. Currently, HVO is not produced at scale in Northern Ireland, necessitating imports that may increase costs and carbon footprint.