KBR’s PureSAF technology will power Northern Europe’s largest SAF plant, helping Latvia boost sustainable aviation fuel production by 2030.
KBR has secured a major contract with NorSAF, a prominent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) producer in the Baltic region, for the development of what is expected to become Northern Europe’s largest SAF and e-SAF production facility. The project marks a significant milestone in Europe’s transition toward cleaner aviation and reinforces efforts to reduce carbon emissions from one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonize.
As part of the agreement, KBR will provide a license for its proprietary PureSAF® technology, a process originally invented and developed by Swedish Biofuels AB. The technology will be deployed at NorSAF’s new production plant, which is planned to have an annual output capacity of approximately 100,000 metric tons of sustainable aviation fuel and electro-sustainable aviation fuel (e-SAF). Supported by Avia Solutions Group, the facility is expected to begin production operations by 2030. Once operational, it will supply SAF to airlines and aviation stakeholders across the Baltic states, Northern Europe, and other key European markets.
The project aligns closely with Europe’s ambitious climate objectives and its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Aviation remains one of the most difficult industries to decarbonize due to its heavy reliance on conventional fossil-based jet fuels. To address this challenge, the European Union has implemented strict regulations designed to accelerate the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels. Under the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation, SAF blending mandates require increasing proportions of sustainable fuel in aviation fuel supplies. As part of the broader Fit for 55 climate package, fuel delivered to EU airports must contain at least 6% SAF by 2030, with the requirement gradually increasing to 70% by 2050.
KBR continues to support global decarbonization efforts by developing and licensing innovative low-carbon technologies. The company’s PureSAF process is designed to help governments, industries, and aviation operators achieve long-term environmental goals while ensuring a reliable supply of sustainable fuel alternatives. The technology offers unique advantages, including the capability to co-process carbon dioxide and synthesis gas within the same facility. This approach enables the production of fully fungible jet fuel that can be used directly in existing aircraft engines and infrastructure without requiring blending with conventional jet fuel.
Commenting on the partnership, Jay Ibrahim, President of KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions, highlighted the importance of the initiative in advancing cleaner aviation and supporting Latvia’s energy transition. He noted that the project will strengthen Europe’s position as a leader in sustainable fuel innovation while expanding SAF production capacity. Ibrahim also emphasized that PureSAF technology provides a scalable pathway for producing high-quality sustainable aviation fuel and contributes to reducing aviation-related emissions.
Janis Kisiels, Board Member of NorSAF, stressed the growing importance of energy independence and security in today’s geopolitical environment. According to Kisiels, recent global developments have demonstrated that energy sovereignty is not only an economic priority but also a strategic necessity. By producing large volumes of sustainable, 100% drop-in jet fuel from locally sourced European feedstocks, the project aims to establish a resilient and self-sustaining energy ecosystem. This approach will help reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels while supporting industrial growth and energy security across Europe.
With more than a century of experience in clean fuel technologies, KBR continues to play a leading role in advancing decarbonization solutions worldwide. Through its collaboration with NorSAF, the company will contribute to positioning Latvia as a strategic hub for sustainable aviation fuel production and distribution, supporting both regional energy resilience and the aviation sector’s long-term sustainability goals.
