This collaboration marks a pivotal step forward in advancing European aviation fuel decarbonization, with a particular focus on establishing Spain as the key hub.
In a significant move set to bolster Europe's efforts to decarbonize air travel, Moeve (formerly Cepsa), a leading Spanish energy company, and Zaffra, a joint venture between Sasol and Topsoe specializing in e-SAF development, have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The agreement outlines a joint assessment of the feasibility of developing cutting-edge e-SAF production facilities in Southern Spain. This region is particularly strategic for Moeve, as it is the site of one of Europe’s most ambitious green hydrogen projects, the Andalusian Green Hydrogen Valley. The synergy between Moeve's extensive renewable energy capabilities, particularly in green hydrogen production, and Zaffra’s advanced technology and asset development expertise, creates a powerful alliance poised to accelerate the commercialization and deployment of e-SAF.
Electro-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (e-SAF) is a highly scalable synthetic aviation fuel produced through an innovative process that utilizes renewable electricity, green hydrogen, and captured carbon dioxide. Its production method offers a pathway to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of air travel, making it a crucial component in the aviation industry's transition towards climate neutrality.
This collaboration is directly aligned with the stringent ReFuelEU Aviation targets, which are integral to the European Union's broader "Fit for 55" package. Under these mandates, at least 6% of all aviation fuel supplied at EU airports must be Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) by 2030, with a specific sub-target of 1.2% mandated for synthetic fuels like e-SAF. The "Fit for 55" package aims to achieve a 55% reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and ultimately reach climate neutrality across the EU by 2050.
Carlos Barrasa, EVP Commercial & Clean Energies at Moeve, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Partnering with Zaffra marks a pivotal step in Moeve’s journey to accelerate the energy transition in aviation. By combining our renewable energy capabilities with Zaffra’s technological leadership, we are laying the groundwork for Spain’s first e-SAF facilities. This initiative not only supports the EU’s climate goals but also reinforces Moeve’s commitment to delivering clean, scalable solutions for the future of flight.”
Echoing this sentiment, Jan Toshka, Zaffra CEO, added, "Zaffra is delighted to join forces with Moeve, aiming to develop Spain’s first e-SAF plants to accelerate the decarbonization of the aviation industry. Our aligned vision and complementary strengths position us at the forefront of bringing e-SAF to market swiftly, sustainably and at scale."
