The Benefits of Low Sulphur Diesel

As consumers are becoming more aware of our effects on the environment, with rising regulations and a focus on cleaner energy, we’re looking at different ways we can reduce our emissions without compromising on performance. In the last few years, we have seen the widespread adoption of low-sulphur diesel. Also known as Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD), it has become the standard in the UK as a compliant diesel fuel, as it offers both operational benefits and is better for the environment.

In our Kinch Fuels guide, we’ll explore more about ULSD, the benefits of low-sulphur diesel, look at any potential drawbacks, and share how we can assist your business or fleet with a supply that is reliable and compliant with regulations.

What Is Low Sulphur Diesel?

Capped at just 10-15 parts per million (ppm) compared to thousands of ppm in traditional diesel, low sulphur diesel (ULSD) is a cleaner-burning fuel that meets environmental standards. Since 2006, the UK and EU have made it a default diesel fuel to use across transport, agriculture and industrial sectors. 

Put simply, ULSD is a compliant diesel fuel in the UK that businesses can use to meet regulations, reduce emissions, and protect modern engines fitted with advanced emissions controls.

Environmental and Health Advantages

The environmental benefits of low-sulphur diesel are one of its strongest selling points. By drastically cutting sulphur, ULSD achieves:

• Lower sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions, reducing acid rain and air pollution.
• Reduced nitrogen oxide (NOₓ) and particulate matter (PM), improving local air quality.
• Compatibility with advanced technologies like Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), which further cut harmful pollutants.

If you work in enclosed or on-site environments, this means cleaner air and reduced health risks.

Performance and Operational Benefits

Beyond emissions, there are other ultra-low sulphur diesel benefits for buyers.

• Cleaner combustion, meaning less residue build-up, longer engine life and lower maintenance costs.
• Improved workplace air quality which is particularly important in agriculture, warehouses, or construction.
• Regulatory compliance that ensures your fleet or equipment is in line with UK and EU environmental laws.

For both businesses and farms, ULSD supports operational reliability while protecting your reputation as an environmentally responsible operator.

Recognising the Trade-offs

While the benefits of low-sulphur diesel are significant, there are a few drawbacks to be aware of.

Lubricity and Fuel Economy

Sulphur acted as a natural lubricant in traditional diesel. With its removal, ULSD can have slightly reduced lubricity, leading to a minor (~1%) decrease in fuel economy.

Higher Production and Market Costs

The refining process required to strip sulphur adds to production costs, which can result in higher pump or delivery prices.

Corrosive Risks and Storage Issues

ULSD tends to absorb water, which increases the risk of microbial growth and corrosion in storage tanks if not properly managed.

Mitigation Strategies

Thankfully, these setbacks can be managed with a number of measures.

• Fuel additives that restore lubricity, protect injectors, and maintain efficiency.
• Regular monitoring and filtration to help control water levels and prevent microbial contamination.
• Proper storage to keep tanks clean, dry, and sealed to extend fuel life and protect equipment.

Our highly knowledgeable team at Kinch Fuels can advise on storage best practices and supply the right additives, so that your ULSD performs at its best.

ULSD in UK Sectors

In today’s market, ULSD is used across numerous sectors and industries in the UK.

• Agriculture: Cleaner operation for tractors, harvesters, and machinery.
• Commercial fleets: Essential for trucks, vans, and buses meeting emission standards.
• Backup generators: Reliable fuel for hospitals, schools, and businesses.
• On-site heating: A cleaner-burning option for industrial and temporary heating systems.

By using ULSD, buyers reduce their environmental impact while staying compliant and efficient.

Why Kinch Fuels Is Your Reliable ULSD Supplier

Kinch Fuels has been delivering oil across Wiltshire for over 40 years, and we pride ourselves on supplying high-quality low low-sulphur diesel to UK customers who can depend on the quality of our product. With us, you benefit from:

• Quality control with our assured, compliant ULSD that meets all UK standards.
• Transparent pricing with competitive rates without any hidden charges.
• Flexible delivery from scheduled orders to emergency fuel supply.
• Local expertise with our knowledge of rural access and customer-specific requirements.

Do you run a farm, business fleet or operate with industrial equipment? Kinch Fuel is there to make sure you have the right diesel, delivered on time when you need it most.

It’s easy to see why so many customers are taking advantage of the benefits of low-sulphur diesel. With its lower emissions, cleaner performance and compliance with UK law, it’s clear that we’re taking a great step forward in reducing our carbon emissions. Although there are some small challenges with storage and lubricity, these can easily be managed with the right supplier and additives.

That’s where we come in. Kinch Fuels delivers trusted expertise, fair prices and reliable deliveries. Contact us to see how ULSD can be used for your business and get a tailored quote for future use.