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In a landmark move for sustainable aviation, NorSAF has entered into a permanent licensing agreement with KBR (NYSE: KBR) to roll out PureSAF® technology, which was originally developed by Swedish Biofuels AB. This exclusive agreement positions NorSAF as a pioneer in establishing Europe’s first commercial-scale facility dedicated to producing 100% drop-in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF/eSAF) by 2026. Unlike traditional sustainable aviation fuels that must be blended with fossil kerosene for optimal performance, PureSAF offers a fully interchangeable solution with fossil jet fuel, enabling current aircraft and fueling systems to operate without modifications.
Currently, PureSAF is certified for use up to a 50% blend with fossil kerosene, with ongoing regulatory approvals aimed at full 100% drop-in certification in Europe, expected to finalize by 2026 depending on ASTM certification. The innovative PureSAF process developed by Swedish Biofuels AB is partnered with KBR for its commercial expansion.
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NorSAF’s ambitious project is contingent upon securing commitments from strategic partners and additional equity investors to facilitate construction and development phases of the production facility.
The envisioned NorSAF facility is set to be located at the Port of Liepaja in Latvia. This state-of-the-art plant will produce sustainable aviation fuel from advanced bioethanol and eSAF, which is derived from green hydrogen and biogenic CO₂. The use of green electricity for hydrogen production and the integration of captured carbon will create a fully renewable energy cycle, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 83% compared to traditional jet fuel production. Notably, all feedstocks will be sourced within Europe, enhancing energy independence and boosting resilience within the European industrial landscape.
The facility is projected to generate an annual output of 100,000 tons of SAF/eSAF, with operations tentatively expected to begin in 2031. This timeline neatly aligns with the European Union’s ReFuelEU Aviation initiative, which sets a robust target of 70% SAF adoption by 2050. The sustainable fuel generated from this facility will be directed towards European airlines, aiding their efforts to significantly cut down on carbon emissions from aviation.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with KBR to introduce PureSAF technology to Europe,” stated Jānis Kisiels, Board Member of NorSAF. “The recent global events highlight that energy sovereignty is not just an economic ambition but a vital aspect of national and regional security. By producing sustainable, 100% drop-in fuels using locally sourced European feedstocks, we are constructing a resilient, self-sufficient energy ecosystem that minimizes reliance on external fossil fuel inputs and fortifies Europe’s industrial backbone.”
Jay Ibrahim, President of KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions, added, “We take pride in being part of this pivotal project, which is steering Latvia towards cleaner aviation and fortifying Europe’s standing in sustainable fuel innovation. Our commitment at KBR is to deliver effective energy solutions. The PureSAF process enhances SAF production scalability while enabling the co-processing of CO2 and syngas within the same facility, thereby producing a usable jet fuel without the necessity for blending with conventional jet fuel.”
By converting the Port of Liepaja into an advanced sustainable fuel hub, NorSAF and KBR are establishing Latvia as a crucial player in the global aviation fuel supply chain. This redevelopment endeavor is aimed at efficiently serving international markets, solidifying Latvia’s essential role in the logistics and distribution networks for sustainable aviation fuel. The project underscores a strategic commitment to green aviation while enhancing the country’s contribution to global aviation infrastructure.
NorSAF is recognized as a leading developer of sustainable fuel solutions based in Latvia, integrating innovative technology and expertise into the initiative. Their partnership with KBR assures that the project will benefit from superior engineering, project management, and sustainable energy solutions. Together, these organizations combine cutting-edge technology with practical execution to create a reliable and environmentally friendly hub for aviation fuel.
In addition to KBR, the partnership includes Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI operator, which provides vital infrastructure support to the project. This collaboration grants NorSAF access to essential operational assets and strategic logistical resources necessary for large-scale fuel supply, thereby amplifying the efficiency and reliability of Latvia’s burgeoning sustainable aviation initiatives.
A key aspect of this initiative is the involvement of Baltic Ground Services, a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, which boasts extensive experience in the supply and distribution of sustainable aviation fuels. Through this partnership, NorSAF can ensure seamless operational continuity, compliance with regulations, and an impactful presence in both European and global markets. This collaboration positions Latvia as a prime example of innovation in aviation sustainability, amplifying the nation’s growing influence within international air transport networks.
Source: The post NorSAF Secures Exclusive KBR License to Deploy PureSAF® Technology, Paving the Way for Europe’s First Full-Scale 100% Drop-In Sustainable Aviation Fuel Facility Transforming Air Travel by 2026 first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
