Why we invest in HVO – and what lies ahead
To switch is never easy. It requires determination, courage, and a clear direction. For us at NCC Industry, the transition is about reducing climate impact in our quarries – step by step. One of these steps is replacing fossil diesel with HVO, a renewable fuel that can significantly cut CO₂ emissions. But it’s also a journey that raises questions about costs, availability, and technology.
From words to action – several quarries take the lead
During 2025, we have continued to take important steps. Kjula and Toresta have expanded the number of quarries that switched to 100% HVO for loading, and in Sälgsjön parts of the machinery have been running on HVO since summer.
It’s no secret that HVO is more expensive than traditional diesel – currently about 50 percent. This affects profitability and requires dialogue with both suppliers and customers. At the same time, the climate benefits are clear, and we see more players in the industry starting to take similar steps. For us, it’s important to show that we dare to try – otherwise we won’t know what works.
Why are we doing this?
We have set clear climate goals: to reduce our emissions and contribute to more resource-efficient production. HVO is part of the solution, but not the whole answer. We are also working on production efficiency, electrification, optimized transport, and minimizing idling. Over time, more quarries will follow, but we must also be realistic – the availability of HVO and cost levels are factors we cannot ignore.
This is not just a technical issue. It’s about how we build the business of the future. Our customers demand climate-improving solutions, and we want to offer them alternatives that make a difference. But we also need to be transparent that these solutions cost more today. That’s why dialogue with customers is crucial – we need shared responsibility to drive development forward.
The future – more options on the table
HVO is a step along the way, but we are already looking to the next level: electric machines. We have tested electric solutions on a small scale, and development is moving fast. Battery capacity is improving, and we believe electricity will play a bigger role going forward. But for heavy flows and high volumes, we’re not there yet – which is why HVO is an important intermediate step.
In Norway, we already have quarries that are fully electrified, and we are closely following developments. We are also looking at solutions such as battery storage to balance the load on the power grid. This is a journey that requires innovation and collaboration – both internally and with our customers. We must dare to think differently, test, and learn along the way.
Shared responsibility for climate benefits
The transition costs. That’s a fact. For us to continue driving development, we need shared responsibility – where our customers also contribute. By requesting and choosing products from quarries powered by HVO, you show that you are willing to invest in a future with lower climate impact. Together, we can create a stronger business built on responsibility, innovation, and climate benefits.
What is HVO?
HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is a renewable fuel that can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil diesel. It is chemically similar to diesel and works in existing engines without technical obstacles – but cost and availability are challenges the industry needs to address.