Navigating Renewable Fuel Compliance in the UK: RTFO, the Zemo RFAS and the ISCC
Understanding Renewable Fuel Obligations
The UK’s transport sector is under increasing pressure to cut emissions, with strict regulations guiding the shift toward sustainable fuel alternatives. The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) is central to this transition, requiring fuel suppliers in the UK to ensure a certain percentage of their transport fuels come from renewable sources.
However, understanding compliance obligations, sustainability certifications, and fuel choices can be complex. This guide explains how the RTFO, ISCC certification and the Zemo Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme (RFAS) help ensure compliance, and demonstrates why HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is the most effective solution.
What Would You Like To Know More About?
Renewable Fuel Transport Obligation Legislation (RTFO)
The Zemo Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme (RFAS)
The International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC)
How HVO Fuel Meets Fufills All These Requirements
Understanding Your Fuel Suppliers Obligations Under the RTFO
The Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) is a UK government policy designed to reduce transport emissions by increasing the use of renewable fuels. It requires fuel suppliers to ensure a growing percentage of fuel is renewable, with penalties for non-compliance.
Key RTFO Requirements
Fuel suppliers must incorporate a minimum percentage of renewable fuel into their supply.
Public sector fleets and businesses can capitalise on this incentive to ensure fuel procurement meets sustainability standards.
Non-compliance from suppliers results in buy-out penalties, incentivising them to shift to certified sustainable fuels.
How the Zemo RFAS Ensures Renewable Fuel Integrity
One challenge fleet operators face is verifying whether a fuel is truly sustainable. This is where the Zemo Renewable Fuels Assurance Scheme (RFAS) plays a crucial role.
How RFAS Helps Fleet Operators
Independent verification that fuels meet sustainability standards beyond government regulations.
Minimum 65% GHG savings required for certification.
Ensures fuel traceability, preventing the use of unsustainable biofuels linked to deforestation.
The Zemo RFAS provides confidence and clarity for public sector fleets, ensuring only high-quality, verified renewable fuels are used.
Why ISCC Certification Matters for HVO fuel and Biofuels
The International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) is a globally recognised standard ensuring biofuels like HVO meet strict environmental and ethical criteria. It is a key certification for RTFO compliance, guaranteeing traceability, GHG reductions, and sustainable sourcing.
Why ISCC-Certified Fuel is Essential
Globally recognised certification ensuring compliance with the UK RTFO
Guarantees that HVO and other biofuels achieve real CO₂ reductions of at least 50-65% compared to fossil diesel.
Ensures sustainable sourcing—no links to deforestation or unethical practices.
Strengthens supply chain integrity, reducing the risk of greenwashing
For public sector fleets, choosing ISCC-certified HVO fuel ensures compliance, credibility, and sustainability.
Why HVO is the Ideal Legislation-Compliant Fuel
Amid tightening supplier regulations and growing sustainability expectations, HVO fuel stands out as the best immediate solution for fleet operators and public sector agencies. Unlike electrification or hydrogen, HVO can be used immediately in existing diesel vehicles without modification.
Why HVO is the Best Choice
Drop-in compatible—no need for engine modifications or infrastructure changes.
Up to 90% CO₂ reduction, making it one of the most sustainable fuels available.
Meets ISCC and Zemo RFAS standards, ensuring full compliance with UK regulations.
Scalable and available now—no waiting for EV or hydrogen infrastructure development.
“Fleet operators, local councils, and businesses can act now to help capitalise on suupplier compliance with the RTFO and take full advantage of certified sustainable fuels like HVO.”