Metronet trials renewable diesel for heavy machinery in Western Australia

An onsite water tanker running on 100 percent HVO. (Photo: Metronet)

In a first for Western Australia’s construction industry and a win for the global goal of a net-zero emissions future, the Metronet Byford Rail Extension is trialing the use of renewable diesel to help reduce its carbon footprint. 

Known as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), the renewable diesel is made from fats, vegetable oils and waste products from the food industry and restaurants.

The renewable diesel is replacing regular diesel typically used to run four pieces of onsite plant and equipment, according to Metronet. 

“The project will substitute 23,000 liters of traditional diesel with HVO, which is expected to produce 95 percent fewer CO2 emissions and less noxious gases, all while delivering the same performance as regular diesel,” said Alita Hancock, the sustainability lead for Metronet.  

“Reducing emissions of heavy vehicles, rail freight, mining, agriculture, construction plant and equipment can be challenging and trials such as this aim to demonstrate the role renewable fuels can play in helping to achieve sustainability targets,” Hancock added.  

The HVO trial is being run with Curtin University, which will undertake studies to understand implications for fuel efficiency, emission reduction and impacts to engines. 

The data captured will be provided to the department of transport to show the viability of HVO fuel for current and future infrastructure projects, and to help build the case for wider industry use once Western Australia’s supply of HVO is available in 2025 or 2026. 

This initiative aligns with the Metronet Sustainability Strategy to identify and implement practical ways to reduce the carbon footprint of Metronet projects.