Fuel solutions for businesses across the UK

BoilerJuice is best known for helping homes across the UK order heating oil, but fuel requirements do not stop at the front door. Farms, fleets, factories and commercial sites also need reliable fuel to keep buildings warm, vehicles moving and essential operations running.

That is why alternative fuels are now part of the picture. Since 1st April 2022, changes to the UK's rebated fuel rules have restricted the use of red diesel in many commercial applications, meaning businesses that previously relied on it may now need to use fully duty-paid fuel.

Industrial Heating Oil (IHO) can support suitable commercial heating applications, while DERV – commonly known as white diesel – is used in diesel road vehicles and other applications where rebated diesel is no longer permitted.

So, what are these fuels, who are they for, and which one might your business need?

What is Industrial Heating Oil (IHO)?

Industrial Heating Oil, or IHO, is a commercial heating fuel designed for suitable boilers, furnaces, dryers and other heat-generating equipment. It is intended for heating applications rather than vehicle or engine propulsion.

Because IHO products and specifications can vary, businesses should always confirm that the product is suitable for their equipment and intended use before ordering.

What is DERV (white diesel)?

DERV stands for Diesel-Engined Road Vehicle fuel and is commonly called white diesel. It is the standard fully duty-paid diesel used for road vehicles in the UK.

White diesel is not marked with the red dye used to identify rebated gas oil, and diesel for road use is associated with the EN 590 automotive diesel specification.

DERV can be used in applications that require standard road diesel, including:

• Cars and vans.
• HGVs and buses.
• Commercial vehicle fleets.
• Diesel-powered equipment where fully duty-paid diesel is required.
• Other compatible diesel engines and machinery.

IHO vs white diesel: what is the difference?

Who could use IHO?

IHO is designed for organisations that need fuel specifically for commercial or industrial heating. Depending on the equipment and fuel specification, it may be suitable for:

• Agriculture – suitable greenhouse heating, poultry and grain-drying applications.
• Hospitality and leisure – hotels, restaurants and leisure facilities with compatible heating systems.
• Healthcare – suitable heating systems at hospitals, care facilities and other sites.
• Education – schools, colleges and universities using compatible oil-fired heating equipment.
• Industrial and commercial premises – factories, workshops and other sites using suitable boilers, furnaces or dryers.

The important distinction is the end use. IHO should not be assumed to be suitable for road vehicles, off-road vehicles, vessels or engines. Always check the product specification, the equipment manufacturer’s guidance and current fuel-duty rules.

Why might a business switch from gas oil to IHO?

For a business using fuel purely to generate heat, a dedicated industrial heating fuel may be a more appropriate option than a fuel intended for a wider range of applications. The exact benefits depend on the IHO product, supplier, equipment and current fuel prices.

Potential reasons a business may consider IHO include:

• A fuel designed specifically for suitable heating applications.
• Potential cost advantages compared with using fully duty-paid road diesel for heating, depending on current prices and duty treatment.
• A specification intended to provide the heat output required by compatible commercial heating equipment.
• A clearer separation between fuel bought for heating and fuel bought for vehicle or engine use.

Avoid assuming that every IHO product has the same sulphur content, maintenance benefits or tax treatment. These details should be confirmed for the specific fuel being supplied.

Can I switch from gas oil to IHO?

Yes. IHO is a practical alternative to gas oil for many businesses that use fuel for commercial and industrial heating, including those that are no longer permitted to use rebated gas oil.

Before switching, check your boiler or equipment manufacturer’s guidance to make sure it is compatible with the IHO specification. When you order through BoilerJuice, we’ll provide the relevant fuel specification, so you know exactly what you’re buying. You should also make sure the fuel will be used in line with current HMRC rules.

Why buy white diesel in bulk?

For businesses that use a significant amount of diesel, having fuel delivered to an appropriate on-site tank can make day-to-day operations simpler.

Reduce trips to fuel stations

On-site fuel allows compatible vehicles and equipment to be refuelled where they operate, reducing the need for repeated trips to a forecourt.

Reduce operational downtime

Drivers and operators can spend less time travelling to refuel, helping keep vehicles and equipment available for work.

Manage larger fuel requirements

Bulk delivery can make it easier to plan fuel purchasing for a fleet, site or busy operational period. The price per litre will still depend on factors such as volume, location, market conditions and supplier availability.

Improve business continuity

Keeping an appropriate amount of fuel on site can help a business prepare for periods of high demand or disruption, provided the fuel is stored safely and in line with applicable regulations.

Before you order IHO or white diesel

Before placing your order, it helps to have the following information ready:

• What the fuel will be used for.
• The type of boiler, vehicle, engine or equipment being fuelled.
• The fuel currently in the tank, if any.
• The quantity required.
• The tank capacity and available space (ullage).
• Tank condition and suitability for the product.
• Delivery access, including any vehicle-size restrictions.
• Whether the intended use is legally permitted for the requested fuel.

Confirming these details before you order helps reduce the risk of buying the wrong fuel or arranging a delivery that cannot be completed safely.

Fuel tanks, deliveries and common issues

Commercial fuels should only be delivered into a suitable, clean and correctly maintained fuel storage tank. Before ordering, check that there is enough capacity for the delivery and that the supplier can safely access the fill point.

Common delivery problems can include contaminated tanks, water in the tank, restricted access, insufficient ullage or the wrong fuel being ordered. If you need more than one type of fuel, get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements and the delivery options available.

Storage requirements can vary by fuel, site and location, so businesses should make sure their tank and storage arrangements comply with the rules that apply to them.

How much IHO or white diesel can I order?

The minimum order quantity through BoilerJuice is 500 litres. Larger quantities are available depending on your fuel requirements and the available capacity in your storage tank.

Simply enter your postcode and the amount of fuel you need to get a quote and see the options available to you.

More fuel options from BoilerJuice

Heating oil may be what BoilerJuice is best known for, but it is no longer the whole story. With alternative fuel options including Industrial Heating Oil and DERV white diesel, we can help support a wider range of commercial fuel requirements.

Whether you need fuel for a compatible commercial heating system or white diesel for vehicles and equipment, choosing the correct product starts with understanding the end use, your equipment and your site’s delivery requirements.

Frequently asked questions