Topsoe Secures Technology Deal for One of Southern Europe’s Largest Renewable Fuel Facilities

Topsoe, a renowned provider of carbon emission reduction solutions worldwide, has entered into a partnership with Cepsa, an influential multinational enterprise dedicated to promoting sustainable transportation. As per the agreement, Topsoe will supply its HydroFlex™ technology to facilitate the manufacture of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel at Cepsa's and Bio-Oils' forthcoming second-generation biofuels facility in Palos de la Frontera, Spain.

Elena Scaltritti, Chief Commercial Officer at Topsoe, expressed enthusiasm about being chosen as the technology provider for this significant initiative. Scaltritti highlighted the growing demand for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel, underscoring the crucial role renewable fuels play in supporting the energy transition. She emphasized the importance of such fuels, particularly in sectors like long-distance transportation, where electrification poses challenges. Scaltritti commended Cepsa for its commitment to decarbonizing the transportation sector and expressed pride in collaborating with them on this endeavor.

Construction of the plant commenced in February 2024, with expectations to flexibly generate 500,000 tons of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel annually. This new facility will effectively double Cepsa and Bio-Oils' combined renewable fuels production capacity to 1 million tons per year, positioning it as one of the most significant renewable fuel complexes in Southern Europe.

The production aims to meet the swiftly increasing demand for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). According to the International Energy Agency’s Net Zero Scenario, to align with the goal of achieving net zero CO2 emissions by 2050, over 10% of aviation fuel consumption needs to be SAF by 2030. However, as of 2022, global SAF production was estimated by the International Air Transport Association to represent only approximately 0.1% to 0.15% of total jet fuel demand.

José Manuel Martínez, Director of Technology, Projects, and Services at Cepsa, expressed, “Our forthcoming 2G plant is pivotal to our Positive Motion strategy and will establish the European standard in the realm of sustainable molecules, directly aiding the swift decarbonization of sectors reliant on conventional fuels, such as aviation. The new facility is anticipated to emit 75% less CO2 compared to a traditional biofuel plant and is structured to achieve net zero emissions in the medium term. In Topsoe, we have identified an exceptional partner, renowned for its proven technology and consistent delivery on commitments. We eagerly anticipate advancing construction to significantly amplify the production of this vital renewable fuel.”

With HydroFlex™, clients have the capability to transform a variety of fats, oils, and greases into drop-in renewable jet and diesel fuels that adhere to all universally recognized specifications for these fuel types. Topsoe’s HydroFlex™ technology is applicable in both newly established units and upgrades for co-processing or entirely renewable applications.