As sustainability becomes a higher priority in transportation, many drivers are looking for cleaner fuel alternatives that reduce emissions without sacrificing performance. Renewable diesel is emerging as one of the most promising options, especially for fleets and heavy-duty vehicles. But how does it compare to traditional gasoline or diesel—and is it really a greener choice?
This guide breaks down what renewable diesel is, how it works, and whether it lives up to its eco-friendly reputation.
What Is Renewable Diesel Made From?
Renewable diesel, also known as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), is a synthetic diesel fuel made from non-petroleum feedstocks. Unlike biodiesel, which is chemically distinct from petroleum diesel and requires blending, renewable diesel is nearly identical in structure to traditional diesel and can be used as a drop-in fuel.
Common feedstocks include:
- Used cooking oil
- Animal fats
- Vegetable oils (such as soybean or canola oil)
- Waste greases and tallow
- Agricultural byproducts
These materials are refined using hydrogenation rather than esterification (as with biodiesel), resulting in a fuel that meets ASTM D975 standards and can be used in existing diesel engines without modification.
Where Can You Find Renewable Diesel—and Who Can Use It?
While not yet available nationwide, renewable diesel is gaining momentum in several U.S. states—particularly California, Oregon, and Washington—thanks to low carbon fuel standards that incentivize cleaner fuels.
You can typically find renewable diesel at:
- Commercial fueling stations
- Public stations in major West Coast metros
- Through municipal, transit, and delivery fleet fueling contracts
It’s most commonly used by:
- Municipal fleets (waste management, transit, public works)
- Trucking and delivery services
- Construction and agricultural equipment operators
That said, any vehicle approved for standard diesel can run on renewable diesel without special upgrades.
For locations, platforms like AFDC Station Locator by the U.S. Department of Energy can help you identify where renewable diesel is available near you.
Renewable Diesel vs. Traditional Diesel vs. Gasoline: Emissions Comparison
The core appeal of renewable diesel lies in its reduced life-cycle emissions. According to California Air Resources Board (CARB) estimates, renewable diesel can lower greenhouse gas emissions by 50–80% compared to petroleum-based diesel.
Key comparisons:
- Renewable diesel vs. petroleum diesel: Comparable energy density and performance, but far lower particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and GHG emissions
- Renewable diesel vs. gasoline: Significantly cleaner in heavy-duty applications; diesel engines are inherently more efficient than gas engines, and renewable diesel amplifies this benefit
- Renewable diesel vs. biodiesel: Renewable diesel has better cold-weather performance, is chemically identical to ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD), and doesn’t require blending
Because it burns more cleanly and is made from waste products, renewable diesel represents one of the lowest-barrier paths to decarbonizing medium- and heavy-duty transport—especially while EV technology continues to scale.
Final Thoughts
Renewable diesel is not just a buzzword—it’s a viable, scalable alternative to traditional fuels with immediate environmental benefits. While it’s not yet universally accessible, its compatibility with current diesel infrastructure and significantly lower emissions profile make it one of the most promising fuels for reducing transportation-sector carbon output.
As access expands, especially in states with strong climate policies, renewable diesel could become a mainstream tool in the push toward greener mobility—and a compelling alternative for drivers and fleets looking to shrink their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance.
