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Foreword
The International Energy Agency's Task 39 has evaluated the current state of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production. Key findings indicate that while numerous SAF production facilities have been announced, current production is less than 1% of the 400 billion litres required annually by 2050. SAF is critical for achieving aviation emissions reductions, yet actual progress is slower than anticipated, with many projects likely to fail. Eleven approved technological pathways exist for SAF, with hydrotreated esters and fatty acids (HEFA) currently the only fully commercialized method. Sourcing feedstocks remains a significant challenge, particularly for low-energy density materials like agricultural residues.
The report adds that many SAF production processes face economic disincentives due to current policies favouring renewable diesel over SAF. The report emphasizes the need for comprehensive supply chain development and addresses the misconceptions surrounding SAF production ratios. Challenges persist within various pathways, including Fischer-Tropsch and power-to-liquids pathways, primarily due to feedstock variability and commercial viability issues. Overall, while SAF holds promise, achieving government targets will require substantial time, investment, and supportive policy frameworks to bridge the significant cost gap between SAF and conventional jet fuel.
Announcements related to SAF R&D investments include Invizyne Technologies, a US-based synthetic biology company. The company, in partnership with the University of Georgia, has been awarded a $2 million project by the U.S. Department of Defense's BioMADE initiative...
Other news this month includes:
Policy
- TRA to review countervailing measure on Indonesian biodiesel
- Interview with the European Biodiesel Board
- Biofuel groups advocate for ways to improve 45Z credit
Markets
- EU soybean harvest lower than last year due to severe decline in the Balkans
- Donau Soja expects record European soybean harvest
- More...
Research and Development
- UK first in ‘clean hydrogen’ production and carbon capture
- Invizyne Technologies selected for $2 million project to advance sustainable aviation fuel capabilities
- IEA Task 39 SAF Flyover Report
Bioethanol
- Petrobras plans bold return to ethanol with strategic partnerships
- RYAM takes 'first step' for bioethanol plant with City
- Pertamina launches sorghum pilot project for bioethanol production
Biodiesel
- Chamberlain Transport changes local fleet to HVO saving 150 tonnes of CO2 every year
- Omnibuses with pure biodiesel (B100) operate trouble-free ─ engine oil change intervals extendable
- Neste supplies renewable diesel to BMW for initial fueling of the company’s newly-produced vehicles in Germany
Aviation and Shipping Biofuels
- Transforming aviation with advanced SAF technology in Teesside
- Auramarine signs co-operation agreement with A2B-online for two methanol-fuelled newbuild vessels
- More...
Events