Recently we have been receiving quite a few questions on Sustainable Aviation Fuel SAF and it’s viability. To answer these questions, we conducted research and put this short blog article together. If you are interested in this topic from a technical standpoint, please make sure to read out technical paper too. Click here to read the Technology Paper.
Introduction:
Aviation plays a vital role in connecting the world and plays a major role in global warming, responsible for 3.5 % of the global CO2 emission. Since the industry revolution, carbon dioxide emissions in the sector have doubled, and forecasts suggest that demand could triple by 2050, highlighting the need for eco-friendly solutions to maintain a balance between economic advantages and environmental consequences
In this situation, a solution that generates enthusiasm among airlines, airplane manufacturers, and government regulators is sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). An alternative jet fuel with low carbon emissions compared to traditional, oil-based fuel.
Growth of Sustainable Aviation Fuels:
As of June 2023, airlines have collectively operated nearly 499,000 flights powered by SAF, with the 500,000th flight expected in July 2023. Government policies plays significant role in shaping SAF adoption. The factors that driving the adoption of SAF are regulatory incentives, technological advancements. In United States, The U.S. Department of Energy Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) empowering energy companies and aviation stake holders by supporting advances in research & development for SAF Adoption. In collaboration with biorefiners, aviation companies, and farmers, BETO-funded researchers are developing novel pathways for SAF adoption in large scale
Difference between Renewable and Sustainable Fuel
Even among industry veterans and experts, the terms “sustainable fuel” and “renewable fuel” are frequently used interchangeably. The term sustainable fuel is more general term that includes different types of fuels. However, these two terms are not exactly the same
Renewable Fuel:
The fuel is produced from existing renewable resources, that naturally renew themselves at a rate allowing us to meet our energy needs. These sources include biomass, geothermal, hydropower, solar, and wind. Characteristic of renewable fuel is replenishment rate (time taken to replenish themselves). For this reason, conventional fuels such as coal and oil are not considered as renewable, because these resources will take millions of years to form.
Sustainable Fuel:
The fuel is produced from renewable raw materials and can offset carbon dioxide emissions. The sustainable fuel derived from resources that can maintain current operations without jeopardizing the energy needs or climate of future generations. The most popular sources of sustainable fuel, including solar energy, sustainable aviation fuel. SAF is unique form of sustainable fuel, as its consumption emits greenhouse gasses but the cultivation of plants offset the carbon emissions.
EU legislation defines SAF as synthetic fuels, certain biofuels made from agricultural and forestry waste, algae, biowaste, used cooking oils or certain animal fats. Recycled fuel made from exhaust gases and plastic waste is also considered green. In addition, renewable hydrogen can be added to the sustainable fuel mix as technology advances. However, the rules also exclude feed and crop-based fuels and those deriving from palm and soy materials, which are not green as they do not meet sustainability criteria
How SAF differs from conventional petroleum-based jet fuels?
SAF, which is made from synthetic electrofuels or biofuels, significantly lowers carbon emissions when compared to traditional jet fuels like kerosene. Its feedstocks, which range from algae to leftover fats and oils, guarantee a 80% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Most importantly, SAF’s overall lifecycle impact can be improved by optimizing production methods, like the HEFA pathway that uses waste materials.
How Much Carbon Does Sustainable Aviation Fuel Save?
On average, Aviation Fuel (SAF) can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional fossil jet fuels when produced using sustainable feedstocks and processes
Is SAF Suitable for All Aircraft?
SAF and conventional jet fuel have nearly identical chemical and physical properties. They can be mixed safely to different degrees, utilize the same supply chain, and don’t require modifications to engines or aircraft. Fuels having these characteristics are referred to as “drop-in fuels,” meaning they can be seamlessly integrated into the current airport fueling infrastructure.
The UK Plans a SAF Mandate in 2025
On April 25 2024, the British government announced plans to establish a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandate, which calls for the use of sustainable sources for 22% of jet fuel on flights departing the country by 2040. The mandate is anticipated to take effect in January 2025, pending parliamentary approval. Fuel suppliers are required by the SAF mandate to meet yearly targets for blending a portion of SAF into their fuel supply. The U.K. Department of Transport states that it will function as a tradable certificate program wherein the supply of SAF will be rewarded based on how much less greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions it produces.
Who’s leading the charge in sustainable jet fuel?
The companies such Neste, Gevo, World Energy Supplies, and Air BP are actively working in this area
Neste – One of the top producers of SAF, renewable diesel, and sustainable feedstock solutions for the polymer and chemical industries is Neste. Neste currently produces 100,000 tons of SAF a year, but by 2023 it hopes to boost that amount to 1.5 million tons a year, or roughly 1.875 billion liters
Gevo inc – Is a biofuel chemical company that makes fuels like renewable isooctane & SAF. By 2030, the company wants to generate and market one billion gallons of hydrocarbons
World Energy – One of the biggest producers of biofuel in North America is World Energy. The company manufactures SAF, which is currently used in commerce. The first SAF commercial facility in the world is the Paramount facility in California.
Air BP – Is a subsidiary of British petroleum working extensively in the area of SAF. Air bp is a major supplier of SAF, they have supplied SAF at over 20 locations across three continents, fueling various aircraft types
Conclusion and Future Perspective:
Sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) play a pivotal role in transitioning the aviation industry towards a more environmentally responsible future. SciTech Patent Art stands ready to collaborate with you, ensuring your SAF initiatives achieve success and lead in the sustainable aviation landscape. Reach-out to us for more information.