WALLA WALLA, WASHINGTON – SkyNRG Americas is accelerating its Project Wigeon, a major sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel production facility, thanks to a $1.5 million grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce. Announced in February 2025, the funding targets a 165-acre parcel at the Port of Walla Walla’s Wallula Gap Industrial Park, where the company plans to produce 50 million gallons of SAF and renewable diesel annually by 2029. The grant, drawn from the Governor’s Economic Development Strategic Reserve Fund, will cover essential pre-construction surveys—cultural and geotechnical—laying the groundwork for a facility that could become Washington’s largest SAF producer.
For businesses tracking SAF supply chains, this development signals a significant step toward meeting regional demand. SkyNRG has secured offtake agreements with major players, including airlines and west coast airports, ensuring a ready market for its output. The facility will leverage biogenic methane from landfills and livestock operations, a cost-effective feedstock that aligns with Washington’s abundant renewable natural gas resources. This strategic choice not only reduces production costs but also taps into a growing trend of utilizing waste streams for high-value fuels.
“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
Port Commissioner Kip Kelly emphasized the project’s multi-faceted business appeal: “You always hear the term win-win, but this is a win-win-win-win.” Beyond environmental benefits—SAF can slash lifecycle emissions by up to 94% compared to conventional jet fuel—the facility promises a robust economic boost. SkyNRG anticipates employing up to 600 workers during the three-year construction phase, with around 100 permanent jobs once operational. Local tax revenues and supply chain opportunities further enhance its value proposition.
“This facility positions Walla Walla as a leader in sustainable aviation fuel while creating quality jobs and long-term economic benefits,” said Patrick Reay, the Port’s executive director. The project aligns with Washington’s clean energy ambitions and the Port of Seattle’s goal to source 60 million gallons of SAF annually for Sea-Tac Airport by 2028—10% of its total fuel needs—from local producers. SkyNRG’s output could cover nearly all of that target, strengthening regional supply security and reducing reliance on out-of-state imports.
The $1.5 million grant is just the beginning. SkyNRG’s total investment is estimated between $600 million and $800 million, with funding secured from existing investors and regional stakeholders. Construction is slated to begin in 2026, following environmental reviews launched in late 2024. If successful, Project Wigeon could set a precedent for scaling SAF production in the U.S., where demand is projected to hit 35 billion gallons annually by 2050. For SAF industry players, this facility represents both a competitive opportunity and a blueprint for leveraging public-private partnerships to drive growth.
