From January 2025, the Italian market will welcome Neste MY Renewable Diesel, a renewable fuel produced by Finland’s Neste, thanks to a strategic partnership with Italian fuel distributor Firmin for its distribution in the North-East region. This biodiesel, classified as HVO100, is entirely derived from renewable raw materials such as waste oils and fats. According to Neste, adopting this fuel can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil diesel, when evaluated over the product’s entire lifecycle.
This feature makes it particularly suited to the Italian market, where there is a pressing demand for immediate, low-impact environmental solutions. Moreover, this biofuel is compatible with existing diesel engines, eliminating the need for investments in new technologies or vehicle modifications. “The collaboration with Firmin represents a significant step in strengthening Neste’s presence in Italy, a country increasingly interested in renewable diesel as a way to decarbonise its transport sector,” said Per Emanuelson, Head of Sales for EMEA at Neste Renewable Products.
Neste was founded in 1948 as a state-owned oil company to ensure Finland’s fuel supply, establishing its first refinery in Naantali in 1957, followed by a second plant in Porvoo in 1965. During the 1970s, it diversified into petrochemicals, plastics, and natural gas. A pivotal moment came in 2015 when it changed its name from Neste Oil to Neste to underscore its focus on renewable energy.
Today, Neste is one of the world’s largest producers of renewable biodiesel refined from waste and residues, as well as sustainable aviation fuel. It operates refineries in four countries: Finland, the Netherlands, Singapore, and the United States. The company is listed on the Helsinki Stock Exchange, with the Finnish government retaining a significant stake through the Prime Minister’s Office. In 2023, Neste reported revenues of €22.9 billion across 16 countries and employs over 6,000 people.
Firmin, based in Lavis, Trentino-Alto Adige, was founded in 1966 to market heating oil. In 1980, the Minzocchi family joined the company, acquiring full ownership two years later. The firm manages 12 fuel stations in the region and operates a storage facility with a capacity of approximately 5 million litres. Since 2008, Firmin has operated a rail terminal, reducing road traffic by around 5,000 lorries annually. It employs around 50 people and generates annual revenues exceeding €250 million.
