“The refinement and production of sustainable aviation biofuels complements our endeavors to meet the rapidly growing demand for jet fuels in the UAE. Under the guidance of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), we are geared up to provide research and technological assistance to this ambitious project,” said Mr. Jasem Al Sayegh, CEO of TAKREER.

More than 2,000 commercial flights have used sustainable aviation biofuel blended with conventional petroleum since renewable jet fuel was approved for commercial use in 2011.

“This breakthrough research places the UAE at the center of a global movement to advance technology that supports the sustainable production of food and bioenergy,” said James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ president and chief executive officer. “The commercialization of aviation fuels – cleaner, superior-performing fuels – is a critical step toward balancing our industry’s dependency on fossil fuels, while also incubating innovation that may have profound global implications to address energy, water and food security.”

The goal of the research facility is to demonstrate the viability of an integrated bioenergy production system with respect to essential food and fuel production, suitable land use, reduced carbon emissions and wastewater clean-up. If the technology proves viable at this smaller-scale, further expansion will continue with the ultimate ambition to scale up to a 200-hectare demonstration site.

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