Avalon BioEnergy Unveils Sustainable Aviation Fuel Project in Uruguay

Avalon BioEnergy has inaugurated its first fully integrated agriculture-driven sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) biorefinery in Latin America, located in Uruguay. This pioneering project is set to play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions from air travel, offering up to an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuel-based jet fuels. The facility represents a significant step forward in the global push to decarbonize the aviation industry, aligning with international efforts to address climate change while minimizing the environmental impact of air transportation.

The SAF biorefinery integrates a sustainable agricultural approach by cultivating proprietary non-edible oilseed crops, which will be used as feedstock for the SAF production process. Additionally, green hydrogen will be produced through solar-powered electrolysis, forming a key component of the low-carbon SAF supply chain. This innovative model ensures that the production of SAF does not compete with food resources, addressing a common concern surrounding the use of agricultural products for energy purposes. By utilizing non-edible crops specifically grown for fuel, the project contributes to a sustainable and reliable feedstock supply chain that can be scaled to meet global demand without impacting food security.

Irshad Ahmed, president and CEO of the Auris-Avalon Group of Companies, expressed his excitement about the project, noting the importance of the Uruguayan government’s support. "This endorsement from the Uruguayan government is a crucial milestone for the establishment of Uruguay’s first SAF facility. We are honored by the support and excited to position Uruguay as a leader in SAF production," said Ahmed. "Our aim is to leverage dedicated non-edible oilseed crops to build a sustainable feedstock supply chain, contributing to global net-zero objectives and fostering regional economic growth."

The project has been recognized as a high-impact clean energy initiative of national interest by the Uruguayan government, further emphasizing its strategic importance. With an estimated cost of $380 million (€341 million), the SAF biorefinery is designed to produce up to 100,000 metric tons of SAF annually. The facility will employ the Hydrotreated Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) process, a widely used and proven technology for converting renewable feedstocks into jet fuel. This method ensures that the SAF produced will meet the stringent quality standards required for aviation while maintaining a lower carbon footprint.

Once operational, this biorefinery is expected to make a substantial contribution to the decarbonization of global aviation while positioning Uruguay as a key player in the transition to clean energy. The project not only aligns with global net-zero goals but also promises to create economic opportunities and drive sustainable growth within the region, further enhancing Uruguay’s standing as a leader in renewable energy initiatives.