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Net zero? No problem

Category
Case studies
Date
9 September 2024
Author
AVK

Reducing carbon emissions and meeting sustainability goals with HVO Fuel.

A leading insurance company, based in the heart of Dublin, had ambitious goals to achieve net-zero carbon emissions and some serious challenges to get there. CBRE, their trusted partner, collaborated with AVK to deliver end-to-end expertise, helping to cut emissions, reduce pollution, and adopt a more resilient, more efficient power solution.

 

The challenge

Like many organisations, CBRE’s client recognised an urgent need to reduce their carbon footprint. However, their reliance on diesel generators was a significant roadblock on their path to sustainability. They needed a reliable, scalable, and eco-friendly alternative to diesel fuel that could seamlessly integrate into their existing infrastructure. CBRE partnered with AVK to bring the expertise and experience required to transition from conventional fossil fuels to greener alternatives without excessive cost or disruption.

 

The solution

AVK proposed the adoption of HVO fuel for power generation. Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is a low-carbon biofuel that can be used directly in place of regular diesel fuel. It reduces carbon emissions by over 90% and improves air quality without requiring infrastructure modifications.

 

HVO fuel in focus

Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel is a game-changer in the world of sustainable energy. HVO is produced through a process that treats waste plant matter with hydrogen, resulting in a biofuel that emits no additional carbon into the atmosphere when burned.

The benefits of HVO are hard to ignore:

  • Over 90% reduction in carbon emissions.
  • Up to 30% less emissions of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and sulphur.
  • Improved engine performance, reliability and longevity.
  • Compatibility with existing diesel engines remove the need for costly infrastructure changes.

 

The key takeaways

This project wasn’t just about switching from one fuel to another. It was about transforming mindsets and taking the practical steps needed to make positive change happen.

The message is clear. With a 90% reduction in carbon emissions and a 30% cut in other pollutants, HVO proves that sustainability isn’t just a lofty ideal for the future. With CBRE’s collaboration and AVK’s expertise, the road to net zero is an achievable reality today. That’s why we’re constantly exploring new ideas, like ultra-high efficiency exhaust gas after-treatment systems that will help clients reduce their emissions further and reach their environmental goals faster.

The project

The transition to HVO fuel was planned, managed and delivered end-to-end by AVK’s expert teams.

Detailed site survey

We assessed the existing infrastructure to identify necessary modifications.

Site preparation

The existing fuel was polished out, and the fuel tank was thoroughly cleaned to remove any contaminants. Pressure testing was conducted to ensure the integrity of the tank and fuel system.

Seamless integration and installation

New pipework, gauges, and a fuel polisher system were installed to accommodate the HVO fuel. This included upgrading the existing infrastructure to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.

Commissioning

Fuel alarms were programmed and the delivery of 10,000 litres of HVO fuel was carefully managed. The generator was primed to ensure its readiness to start, and a building load test was conducted to verify that the system was running as expected.

Performance testing

AVK carried out a series of emissions tests and operational checks to confirm the efficacy of the HVO fuel and its environmental benefits. The results demonstrated a substantial reduction in carbon emissions and other pollutants, a significant step towards our client’s net-zero goals.

The key takeaways

This project wasn’t just about switching from one fuel to another. It was about transforming mindsets and taking the practical steps needed to make positive change happen.

The message is clear. With a 90% reduction in carbon emissions and a 30% cut in other pollutants, HVO proves that sustainability isn’t just a lofty ideal for the future. With CBRE’s collaboration and AVK’s expertise, the road to net zero is an achievable reality today. That’s why we’re constantly exploring new ideas, like ultra-high efficiency exhaust gas after-treatment systems that will help clients reduce their emissions further and reach their environmental goals faster.

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