After decades of distributing liquid fuels, Tria Energy is embracing a bold new chapter – one rooted in innovation, sustainability, and forward-looking strategy.
Patrick Kirby, Chief Executive Officer for Tria Energy spoke with Fuel Oil News to explain the thinking behind the move and how it will help the forward-looking distributor continue its successful business evolution.
“The recent relocation of our headquarters to Cork City is about much more than just a change of address; it represents a strategic evolution aligned with the changing industry and changing customer demands.”
Building for the future: Why Cork?
“Cork City gives us a stronger platform for growth. Our business has grown significantly over the last decade, and Cork City enhances our operational agility, as a more central HQ, as well as giving us better access to both national and international markets.
“This move isn’t just about geography – it’s about people and potential. Cork offers access to a wider talent pool that includes both traditional industry skills as well as the expertise needed for the transitioning energy landscape.
“As our industry shifts, so too must we – and the move enables us to bring in the skills needed for a future where sustainable liquid fuels, like HVO, will dominate the conversation.”
The growing HVO opportunity: niche to mainstream
“Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is no longer a niche alternative – it’s becoming a mainstream choice for progressive companies seeking real, measurable emissions reductions.
“Our journey with HVO started over four years ago, and in that time, we’ve seen first-hand its effectiveness as a decarbonisation solution. Once customers take the first step of testing and validation, they rarely look back. It’s not just about emissions reductions, either. The cleaner-burning nature of HVO improves workplace air quality and contributes to a better overall operating environment.
“Having sold HVO for over four years now, we’re well-versed in optimising an HVO adoption strategy and our role goes beyond supplying fuel. We actively advocate for HVO, educating customers and prospects on how best to integrate it into their operations. The result? A growing base of knowledgeable clients who are now HVO champions themselves.”
Better facilitating our tech-driven services
“At the heart of our transition is a firm belief in the power of data. ESG reporting, emissions tracking, and compliance support are core to our service offering. Our new HQ is designed with these needs in mind, housing a dedicated reporting and compliance team supported by a bespoke fuel management system.
“This platform is built on a flexible, integrated technology stack thanks to partnerships with some of the best names in the sector.
“We regularly provide clients with emissions certificates and support them in tailoring reports to meet the requirements of their ESG strategies. Many tell us we’ve become an extension of their sustainability teams, and we take that responsibility seriously.”
Meeting evolving customer expectations
“The paradigm has shifted significantly, and fuel companies that want to meet evolving customer expectations must also evolve. The days of “just delivering fuel” are over – particularly when it comes to low-carbon alternatives like HVO. Clients now demand a technical, consultative approach. This includes robust emissions reporting, carbon certifications that meet global standards, and ongoing advisory support.
“Our proactive stance has positioned us as leaders in this space. We were the first oil distributor in Ireland to achieve ISCC certification and undergo an audit, and we hold ISCC and RFAS certifications in the UK as well. We don’t want to just follow the standards – we want to help drive them.”
A cultural shift toward growth
“Transitioning from a traditional fossil fuel distributor to a diversified, low carbon energy partner has required a major cultural and operational pivot – but an exciting one!
“We’ve had to bring in new expertise while valuing and retaining the deep experience that built our business. This dual mindset, combining a respect for legacy combined with a hunger for innovation, has become part of our DNA.
“The operational challenges have been real. Selling HVO across a wider geographic footprint, retrofitting depots, and investing in new infrastructure hasn’t come cheaply. But the rewards, commercially and environmentally, are well worth it.”
Looking ahead
“We’re not just moving premises; we’re moving with purpose. The new HQ in Cork City is a springboard into the future: a future where liquid fuels are cleaner, smarter, and more closely integrated with our customers’ broader sustainability goals. As we continue to advocate for alternatives like HVO and strengthen our ESG services, we remain committed to helping businesses transition with confidence.
“Our mission hasn’t changed – we still deliver fuel. But more than ever, we deliver it with vision, responsibility, and an eye firmly on the future.”
Image provided by Tria Energy