ENEOS Corporation is making strides towards a sustainable future through the importation of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) to its Negishi refinery located in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. This initiative is part of ENEOS's effort to promote biofuel adoption and realize a decarbonized society. HVO, a product derived from the co-production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), boasts incredible lifecycle greenhouse gas reduction potential when compared to conventional fossil fuel-derived diesel.
One of the standout features of HVO is its compatibility with existing fossil fuel infrastructures. It possesses similar characteristics to traditional diesel, allowing it to be accepted directly into the existing tanks at the Negishi refinery. This makes it feasible for ENEOS to blend HVO with existing fuel types, thereby facilitating its distribution to customers without requiring extensive new investments in infrastructure.
ENEOS manages the environmental value of HVO meticulously, utilizing a 'mass balance' approach. This method allows the tracking and allocation of environmental value certificates to users without the necessity of physically using HVO. Thus, customers who opt for this green solution can continue utilizing existing fuels while contributing to decarbonization initiatives. The result is an expected wider promotion of biofuels to a diverse range of consumers while eliminating the need for new specialized infrastructure investment.
Notably, this large-scale import of HVO via tanker to a refinery represents a significant first for Japan, according to research conducted by ENEOS in June 2026. ENEOS is committed to balancing stable energy and material supply while striving towards a carbon-neutral society, a challenge that the company continues to embrace wholeheartedly. In addition, they are considering the establishment of a comprehensive system that encompasses everything from raw material procurement to in-house manufacturing and sales at their Wakayama manufacturing facility, which is focused on SAF production.
With the ongoing development of supply chains and promotion of low-carbon fuels, including SAF and HVO, ENEOS is committed to leading the charge for a greener energy future. This initiative not only underscores ENEOS’s vision but also aligns with the global efforts to combat climate change through innovative energy solutions and sustainable practices.
The Negishi refinery stands as a cornerstone in this transformative approach to energy sourcing, showcasing how a major player in the fuel industry can pivot towards more sustainable practices without compromising on efficiency or infrastructure. Through these efforts, ENEOS is setting a precedent for others in the industry while contributing positively to global environmental goals.
For more information, inquiries can be directed to the Media Relations Group at the ENEOS Public Relations Department:
[email protected].