Fuel distributor Certas Energy has partnered with Silverstone to power the Formula 1 Pirelli British Grand Prix with at least 250,000 litres of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO).
The racetrack is estimated to save approximately 645 tonnes of CO₂e by using HVO instead of standard diesel to power generators that operated mobile kitchens, lighting and stages for live music events and day-to-day operations across the year.
HVO will also powered generators for the Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championships and the upcoming Motor Racing Legends event on October 17-18.
It marks the third year of Silverstone using Certas Energy HVO, having supplied 350,000 litres of HVO last summer and a quarter of a million litres in 2024 to save up to a combined 1,549 tonnes* of CO₂e.
The reduction in emissions was determined by Certas Energy’s HVO Carbon Savings Calculator which uses UK Government data to show how much carbon can be saved by switching from standard diesel to HVO.
Paired with the HVO & Diesel Balancing Calculator, this helps inform the full environmental and financial impact of fuel consumption and gives businesses a clearer path to decarbonisation.
Silverstone’s decision to switch to HVO is part of the race circuit’s ‘Shift to Zero’ initiative, which contributes to Formula 1’s drive to be net zero by 2030.
Certas Energy HVO, produced from waste and residue derived feedstocks, is a drop-in solution and can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to standard diesel.
Sophie Ellis, ESG Impact Manager at Silverstone, said:
“Following another successful year of using Certas Energy HVO, I am delighted that the home of British motorsport has continued our commitment to renewable fuels this summer.
“Silverstone will continue to lead the way in lowering our carbon footprint as we accelerate in our race to Shift to Zero.
“Collaborative, aligned relationships are key to us being successful on this journey, which is something that Certas Energy completely supports.”
Cathy Bailey, Energy Transition Manager at Certas Energy, said:
“The Formula 1 Pirelli British Grand Prix is one of the biggest events in sport and it’s an honour to support a world-famous venue’s race to hit net zero for the third year in a row.
“This HVO hat-trick demonstrates why Silverstone trust us to support their energy transition and the renewable alternative to traditional diesel is helping to significantly reduce carbon emissions.”
Image courtesy of Certas Energy
