Decarbonisation Technology – August 2021

for the aviation industry to reduce its emissions and to scale up the use of sustainable aviation fuels,” he says. “This has created a bit of a chicken and egg scenario – limited demand means limited supply. The real transformation depends on regulators.” But things are changing fast now. Last year, Norway became the first country in the world to mandate that aircraft fuel contain SAF. Initial regulations set the ratio at 0.5%, but this is set to grow to 30% by 2030. Sweden is implementing a similar regulation during mid-2021, requiring approximately 1% SAF in the jet fuel mix and with a 30% target for 2030. “Norway and Sweden are leading by example,” says Jauhiainen. “We expect France to implement a blending obligation next year, and Finland and the Netherlands may follow. An EU-wide requirement

Smaller carbon footprint and lower emissions • Up to 80% greenhouse gas emissions reduction over the lifecycle • Reduction of harmful particular matter, SOx Powerful performance • 1% reduction of fuel use with SAF (at 50% blend) • High energy content; clean burning Excellent cold properties • Freeze point as low as -49º C (-56º F) or lower Infinite storage time • Oxidation stability remains the same for many years in neat form Engine compatibility • ASTM D7566 certified • Normal maintenance costs No additional investment needed to switch today • Fully compatible with existing jet engines and fuel delivery infrastructure

Benefits of sustainable aviation fuel

Neste has also teamed up with Airbus, German research centre DLR and jet-engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce to start the pioneering ‘Emission and Climate Impact of Alternative Fuels’ (ECLIF3) project, looking into the effect of using 100% SAF. New regulations drive change Although standards for aviation biofuels have been in place for more than a decade, the SAF industry has progressed at a much slower pace than the transition to biofuels in road transportation. Jauhiainen says this is due to limited pressure and incentives from policy that would move the industry in the right direction. “Compared to road transportation, there have been fewer binding requirements and incentives

may also be announced soon that would come into effect in 2025.” “There are positive developments elsewhere too. The new US administration is looking to incentivize sustainable aviation use, and we see proposals on the table in New Zealand as well. Over time, the hope is that we would move to a global framework to create a market for SAF.” “This journey has taken a while and it has been difficult,” says Jauhiainen. “But commitment in the industry has strengthened and we are ready for fast growth now.”

Arne Padt arne.padt@neste.com Technical feas bility is proven A drop-in solution to the existing fuel supply chain, similar to fossil jet fuel