In a pioneering move toward sustainable maritime operations, Vast Infraestrutura has successfully completed the first hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) bunkering operation in the Brazilian maritime sector. The landmark bunkering took place at the Açu Liquid Terminal (TLA), with the support and collaboration of Efen, Wilson Sons, and Porto do Açu.
The operation involved a barge-to-ship bunkering procedure, in which HVO—also known as green diesel—was supplied to the WS Rosalvo, a tugboat operated by Wilson Sons. This initiative not only showcases the potential of renewable fuels in maritime logistics but also represents a crucial step toward Brazil’s broader energy transition goals.
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A Sustainable Bunkering Breakthrough
HVO is a renewable, low-carbon diesel alternative produced from 100% renewable feedstocks such as vegetable oils and waste fats. Unlike traditional fossil fuels, HVO burns cleaner and can deliver up to an 80% reduction in carbon dioxide equivalent emissions, depending on the supply chain and application. It is also chemically similar to petroleum diesel, allowing it to be used in existing marine engines without modification.
The successful bunkering of HVO in the WS Rosalvo highlights the feasibility and effectiveness of adopting cleaner fuels in high-performance port operations. The tugboat operates in and around the Port of Açu, including at T-Oil, Vast Infraestrutura’s Oil Terminal, where Wilson Sons also provides essential maritime support services.
Collaboration Across the Maritime Ecosystem
The operation was made possible through the strategic collaboration of four major players:
- Vast Infraestrutura, responsible for terminal operations and project coordination;
- Efen, the fuel provider ensuring quality and logistics;
- Wilson Sons, the tugboat operator and long-time partner in port operations;
- Porto do Açu, the overall port infrastructure manager supporting sustainable innovation.
To commemorate the achievement, representatives from all four companies gathered at the TLA terminal, celebrating the successful execution of Brazil’s first maritime HVO bunkering. The event served as a reaffirmation of their joint commitment to innovation, sustainability, and decarbonization within the port and maritime logistics sectors.
A Model for the Future of Ports
“This operation reflects Vast’s clear commitment to driving decarbonization across the Brazilian maritime landscape,” shared Vast Infraestrutura. “By incorporating renewable fuels like HVO into our supply chain, we are creating a real, measurable impact on emissions while paving the way for future green energy adoption across the Port of Açu.”
The use of HVO in tugboat operations represents a scalable model that could be replicated across Brazil’s port infrastructure and fleet operators. As ports face increasing pressure to align with international climate goals, such as those established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and national emissions targets, green fuels are expected to play a critical role.
Looking Ahead
Vast Infraestrutura expressed gratitude to its partners, emphasizing that the success of this operation is a testament to shared values and long-term vision. “We thank Efen, Wilson Sons, and Porto do Açu for their trust and collaboration in this journey,” the company shared. “Together, we are building increasingly sustainable horizons for the future of energy and maritime transport.”
As the maritime industry continues its shift toward renewable and low-emission technologies, the Port of Açu is now firmly positioned as a national leader in green port innovation—setting a precedent for other Brazilian and Latin American ports to follow.
About Vast Infraestrutura
Part of the Prumo Group, Vast Infraestrutura is a leading logistics and infrastructure provider for the movement of liquid fuels in Brazil. The company is responsible for approximately 40% of all crude oil exports from Brazil through its T-Oil terminal at the Port of Açu—the only private terminal in the country capable of handling VLCC-class vessels (Very Large Crude Carriers).
Vast is now expanding its focus to include the movement and storage of future fuels through the Açu Liquid Terminal (TLA). This facility is being developed to support the growing demand for low-carbon and alternative fuels, including marine fuels, lubricants, and biofuels.
Vast’s strategy is centered on sustainable operations, emissions reduction, and resource efficiency, with the ambition to become a benchmark in safety, sustainability, and innovation in its sector.
Source Vast Infraestrutura