HOUSTON, TEXAS — On July 16, 2025, Syzygy Plasmonics, a Houston-based startup specializing in decarbonization technologies, announced a pivotal partnership with Velocys, a leader in Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis, to advance its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facility in Uruguay. The project, a key step in scaling SAF production in South America, leverages Velocys’ proven FT technology to convert renewable feedstocks into high-quality, low-carbon jet fuel, targeting operational status by the end of the decade.

“The combination of Velocys’ Fischer-Tropsch technology and Syzygy’s innovative reactor platform positions us to deliver sustainable aviation fuel at scale, addressing both cost and environmental challenges,” said Trevor Best, CEO of Syzygy Plasmonics.

The Uruguay facility, developed in collaboration with Cool Company, aims to produce cost-competitive SAF by integrating Syzygy’s photocatalytic reactor technology with Velocys’ FT process, which is renowned for its efficiency in converting synthesis gas into liquid hydrocarbons. This approach promises to optimize yields and reduce production costs, critical in a market where SAF prices remain 2-5 times higher than conventional jet fuel. With global SAF production at less than 1% of aviation fuel demand in 2024 (per IATA), such innovations are vital to meeting the projected 10% SAF share by 2030. The project also aligns with South America’s growing focus on bio-based economies, leveraging regional agricultural and waste resources to secure feedstock supply chains.

For stakeholders—airlines, investors, and regional governments—this partnership signals a scalable model for SAF deployment in emerging markets, potentially positioning Uruguay as a regional export hub. However, challenges include securing consistent feedstock supplies, such as agricultural residues or municipal waste, and navigating regulatory frameworks to attract investment. The collaboration builds on Velocys’ prior successes, like the Altalto project, and Syzygy’s expertise in low-energy chemical processing, offering a blueprint for future facilities. If successful, this could drive down SAF costs, encouraging broader adoption across Latin American carriers and supporting global net-zero aviation goals.

Source: Syzygy Plasmonics Press Release via PRNewswire, “Syzygy Surges Ahead: Uruguay SAF Project Gains Momentum with Velocys Onboard as FT Licensor”, July 16, 2025.