**Author | Presenter** -- [[Argus Media]], [[Bea O'Kelly]], [[Helge Sachs]] ## My Notes ## AI Summary ### Introduction to SAF and Synthetic Production The video is part of the “SAF Insights” series by [[Argus Media]], where the market forces behind Sustainable Aviation Fuel ([[SAF]]) are discussed. The guest is **Dr. [[Helge Sachs]]**, Senior VP at [[EcoFT]], a company owned by [[Sasol]], focusing on the synthetic production of [[SAF]] using renewable energy and hydrogen via the **[[Fischer-Tropsch]] (FT)** process. --- ### How SAF is Produced via the Fischer-Tropsch Process - **[[Fischer-Tropsch]] Overview**: Named after two German scientists, the FT process is nearly 100 years old and was initially used to convert coal to liquid fuels. [[Sasol]] has leveraged this process over the past 70 years, transitioning from coal to natural gas and now to renewable feedstocks for [[SAF]] production. - **Feedstocks**: The process can use biomass, municipal solid waste, industrial CO2, or direct air capture to produce carbon monoxide. This is combined with hydrogen (ideally green hydrogen) to synthesize various hydrocarbon fuels like jet fuel or diesel. --- ### Advantages of Synthetic SAF - **Carbon Intensity Reduction**: The synthetic [[SAF]] route can potentially reduce carbon emissions by up to 99%, compared to 73-84% for traditional [[HEFA]] (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids) [[SAF]]. - **Feedstock Flexibility**: Synthetic [[SAF]] can be produced using a wider range of renewable and waste materials, making it more versatile in the long term. --- ### Comparison with HEFA SAF - **Current Dominance of [[HEFA]]**: [[HEFA]] [[SAF]] is currently the most popular production method, especially in [[Europe]], using feedstocks like used cooking oil, animal fats, and soybean oils. It is easier to scale due to existing infrastructure. - **Cost and Scalability**: While synthetic [[SAF]] has higher carbon-saving potential, **[[HEFA]] [[SAF]] is cheaper and more scalable in the near term** (until 2030). **Synthetic [[SAF]] will become more cost-competitive as renewable electricity prices decrease**. --- ### Market Growth and Regional Focus - **Production Timeline**: [[EcoFT]] aims to start [[SAF]] production by 2026, with further capacity growth expected from 2027 onwards. They are working on joint ventures and demonstration units in the [[EU]] and the [[U.S.]] - **Regional Focus**: [[Europe]] and the [[U.S.]] are major growth areas. The [[U.S.]] benefits from hydropower for green hydrogen, while [[Europe]] has strong regulatory frameworks and mandates (like sub-targets for synthetic [[SAF]]). - **Policy and Incentives**: Regulatory support is crucial for scaling synthetic [[SAF]]. **The [[EU]] is using mandates and quotas**, while the [[U.S.]] focuses on tax incentives through legislation like the [[Inflation Reduction Act]] (IRA). --- ### Challenges and the Future of SAF - **Scaling and Costs**: Synthetic [[SAF]] will take time to scale due to **high capital costs and the need for affordable renewable electricity**. However, it is crucial to meeting future demand, with **aviation fuel consumption expected to reach 500 million tons by 2050**. - **Technology Openness**: Future growth will rely on embracing multiple technologies, including [[methanol-to-jet]], gasification, and [[power-to-liquid]] pathways. --- ### Conclusion The discussion highlights the importance of synthetic [[SAF]] in reducing aviation's carbon footprint, the need for diverse production methods, and the role of government policies in encouraging [[SAF]] uptake globally. The video ends with optimism for the [[SAF]] market’s growth in the coming years. ## Quotes --- **Tags** -- [[literature-notes]] , [[mocs]], [[videos]], [[youtube]], [[sustainable aviation fuels]], [[sustainability]], [[e-fuels]] **Recommended by** -- **Last Updated** --