Ulsan, South Korea – SK Energy has become the first Korean refiner to export Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to Europe, achieving a major milestone just four months after commencing commercial production. The shipment marks the establishment of a global value chain, from waste-based raw material acquisition to production and export.
This breakthrough aligns with the European Union’s (EU) mandatory SAF adoption, which began this month, requiring at least 2% SAF in aviation fuel. SK Energy’s Co-Processing technology integrates bio-based materials, such as used cooking oil and animal fats, into existing petroleum refining processes. This has enabled the company to produce low-carbon fuels efficiently, securing a competitive position in the rapidly growing SAF market.
An SK Energy spokesperson noted:
“Our extensive production system, supported by SK Innovation’s advanced R&D capabilities and engineering expertise, has been critical to achieving this milestone. With a production capacity of 100,000 tons annually, we are well-positioned to meet global SAF demand.”
“Our extensive production system, supported by SK Innovation’s advanced R&D capabilities, has been critical to achieving this milestone.”
The EU’s SAF mandate aims for incremental increases, targeting 6% by 2030 and 70% by 2050. These ambitious goals align with the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Net Zero by 2050 pledge, which seeks a 50% reduction in aviation’s CO2 emissions compared to 2005 levels.
Lee Chun-kil, CSO of SK Energy and Head of SK Innovation Ulsan Complex, stated:
“We will closely monitor SAF policy changes and market trends to expand our production capacity and strengthen our position in the global SAF market.”
By leveraging its large-scale production capabilities and global partnerships, SK Energy is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable aviation fuel adoption worldwide.
Category:
Sustainable Aviation Fuel / Market Developments
