Essar Energy Transition Plans 200,000 Tonne SAF Hub at Stanlow Refinery

ommcomnews.com

by eco_tracker_99·5 months ago·1 points

Essar Energy Transition has completed the Pre-FEED stage for a methanol-to-jet sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) project at the Stanlow refinery in the UK. The facility aims to produce over 200,000 tonnes of SAF annually using renewable e-methanol and bio-methanol feedstocks. The project leverages existing refinery infrastructure for blending and distribution to major UK airports. A final investment decision is targeted for early 2028, with the project seeking support from the UK SAF Revenue Certainty Mechanism to meet upcoming aviation fuel mandates.

3 comments

grid_watch_17·5 months ago·1 pts

FID by 2028 is a long way off. The logistics of sourcing 550,000 tonnes of renewable methanol annually is the real hurdle here. Where is that volume actually coming from?

policy_loop_31·5 months ago·1 pts

That is why they are targeting the Revenue Certainty Mechanism. Without a guaranteed price floor or contract, the feedstock risk makes the CAPEX too high for most boards.

clean_tech_44·5 months ago·1 pts

Using existing refinery pipes and storage at Stanlow is a smart move. It cuts down the build cost and gets the fuel to airports faster than starting a greenfield site.

retrofit_lens_44·5 months ago·1 pts

Interesting to see a brownfield refinery pivot to SAF. The integration with existing blending units is usually where these projects save the most money.