RAF Wittering Takes a Green Step Forward with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil Trials

RAF Takes a Green Step Forward with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil Trials

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is exploring innovative ways to reduce its carbon footprint, and a recent trial at RAF Wittering has demonstrated the potential of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as a viable alternative fuel. Project ESTER, conducted by the RAF’s Support Force, saw squadrons testing HVO in vehicles and catering equipment, marking a significant step towards the RAF’s net-zero goals.   

The five-month trial involved five vehicles from 2 Mechanical Transport Squadron running on HVO, a next-generation low-carbon diesel that can reduce harmful emissions and CO2 by up to 90%. 3 Mobile Catering Squadron also participated, testing HVO with their Operational Field Catering System, while 1 Expeditionary Logistics Squadron provided specialist support.   

Unlike traditional biofuels, HVO is produced through a synthesis process involving hydrogen, resulting in a cleaner, renewable fuel that doesn't release new carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This makes it a compelling option for reducing the RAF’s environmental impact.

“We’ve gained some valuable data on the HVO fuel, and taken the opportunity to test different ways of working, including testing whether the HVO could be used in the cooking sets of 3 Mobile Catering Squadron,” said Wing Commander Micklewright of the Support Force. “We’re delighted to have been able to work closely with HQ Air Command, Defence Equipment and Support and the Operational Energy Authority, not to mention our commercial vehicle providers at Babcock, to make this happen.”

The trial provided invaluable data and practical experience for the RAF’s logistics team and vehicle operators. “Project ESTER has provided our logistics team and vehicle operators and refuelers with valuable experience of using Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil in our normal truck fleets, building confidence in the use of a true drop-in alternative fuel source,” explained Group Captain Dixon, Assistant Head Air Command Climate Change & Sustainability.   

He further emphasised the strategic benefits, stating, “As we decarbonise our truck fleets, it has provided confidence that a transition to HVO/biodiesel, when more affordable, will lessen our reliance on global fossil fuel supply chains without detrimental impact on our operational output. Project ESTER is a great example providing evidence that enhances our fuel resilience whilst also driving towards our Net Zero and transport decarbonisation goals and legislative remits: a decarbonisation and operational flexibility advantage win-win scenario.”   

While this is the first time the RAF has trialled HVO in vehicles, previous successful trials using HVO in boilers at RAF Leeming demonstrate the organisation’s commitment to exploring alternative energy sources. The RAF is also actively transitioning its “white fleet” to electric and hybrid vehicles and conducting trials with hydrogen-powered air-side vehicles.   

RAF Wittering played a crucial role in the collaborative effort, which involved various partners including the Fuels Role Office, ASTRA, Babcock - Phoenix 2, Western Global, Operational Energy Authority, and World Fuels Services.   

“RAF Wittering is proud to support the RAF's drive toward Net zero,” said Wing Commander Nikki Duncan, Station Commander, RAF Wittering. “Through collaborative trials using alternative fuels, such as HVO, we are playing our part in the bid to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining operational excellence. Our teams’ expertise and facilities have proven invaluable in advancing these important initiatives, and I'm pleased that RAF Wittering continues to contribute to the RAF's environmental commitments.”   

Project ESTER represents a significant step in the RAF’s journey towards a more sustainable future, demonstrating the practical application of alternative fuels and paving the way for further innovation in the pursuit of net-zero emissions.