OLYMPIA, WA — On February 20, 2025, the Washington State Department of Commerce awarded a $1.5 million grant from the Governor’s Economic Development Strategic Reserve Fund to the Port of Walla Walla, fueling a groundbreaking sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) project. SkyNRG Americas, a global SAF leader, will develop the facility at the Port’s Wallula Gap Industrial Park, leveraging renewable natural gas (RNG) to produce SAF and renewable diesel—reinforcing Washington’s push for sustainable technologies and economic growth.

“This facility positions Walla Walla as a leader in sustainable aviation fuel while creating quality jobs and long-term economic benefits.” — Patrick Reay, Executive Director, Port of Walla Walla

Dubbed Project Wigeon, the facility is expected to generate up to 600 jobs during construction and sustain 100 permanent positions once operational in 2029. With an annual output of 50 million gallons, it aligns with regional demand, notably the Port of Seattle’s goal to source 60 million gallons of SAF yearly—10% of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s 600 million-gallon fuel use—from local, sustainable suppliers.

Governor Bob Ferguson hailed the initiative: “Sustainable aviation fuels are central to the evolving global aerospace industry, and we’re proud to be leading the way here in Washington state.” He emphasized its role as an economic catalyst for both the Walla Walla region and the state’s clean energy sector. Joe Nguyen, Director of the Washington State Department of Commerce, added, “This project aligns with our strategic growth priorities around clean technology and innovation,” highlighting the creation of family-wage jobs.

The Port of Walla Walla’s Patrick Reay underscored the local impact: “This facility positions Walla Walla as a leader in sustainable aviation fuel while creating quality jobs and long-term economic benefits.” SkyNRG’s choice of Wallula Gap enables direct SAF distribution to Washington airports and West Coast markets with clean fuel standards, broadening the region’s economic base.

John Plaza, CEO of SkyNRG Americas, expressed enthusiasm: “We are excited to help expand American-made fuel production, as well as Washington state’s leadership in the global clean energy transition.” With site acquisition complete and the SEPA environmental checklist submitted, the project is on track to bolster both sustainability and community resilience.