eSAF and the Future of Aviation Fuel
Oslo
eSAF (electro Sustainable Aviation Fuel) is a synthetic jet fuel produced using electricity from renewable sources such as wind, water, and solar. Through the Power-to-Liquid (PtL) process, green hydrogen and captured CO₂ are transformed into a liquid fuel. The result is a jet fuel that can be used in today's aircraft engines, without relying on physical by-products such as used cooking oil or tall oil.
The Benefits of eSAF
- Unlimited feedstock potential – as long as renewable electricity and CO₂ sources exist, eSAF can be produced.
- Massive emission reductions – potentially close to 100% net CO₂ reduction compared to fossil jet fuel.
- Full compatibility – eSAF can be blended into today's fuel systems and used in existing aircraft engines.
- A long-term solution – as biological feedstocks become scarcer, eSAF can be scaled to meet growing demand.
How the Technology Works
Producing eSAF involves several steps:
- Green hydrogen is produced via electrolysis, powered by renewable electricity.
- CO₂ is captured from industrial emissions or directly from the air (DAC).
- Hydrogen and CO₂ are combined in a chemical process (e.g., Fischer-Tropsch synthesis).
- The result is a liquid fuel with the same properties as conventional Jet fuel
Norway's Potential for eSAF
Norway has unique conditions for eSAF production, with abundant renewable energy and access to CO₂ sources. Several pilot projects are now exploring how eSAF could be produced locally.
Still, it remains uncertain if and when these projects will be realized. Commercial-scale production of eSAF is not expected before 2030–2035.
Still, it remains uncertain if and when these projects will be realized. Commercial-scale production of eSAF is not expected before 2030–2035.
AFSN is Ready When the Market Is Ready
Wherever production begins, AFSN will be prepared to supply the Norwegian market with eSAF as soon as it becomes available. The RefuelEU mandate is already in force, gradually increasing the share of SAF in aviation fuel. From 2030, this mandate will also include a dedicated sub-target for eSAF, ensuring that synthetic fuels become part of the official blending requirements.
Importantly, the SAF that AFSN supplies to corporate customers is above and beyond the mandated volumes. This means your investment creates additional climate benefits that would not happen through regulation alone.
Importantly, the SAF that AFSN supplies to corporate customers is above and beyond the mandated volumes. This means your investment creates additional climate benefits that would not happen through regulation alone.
"Fly Smart"
The goal is to keep air travel just as accessible as today – but to make it smarter. With SAF and eSAF, the journeys of the future can deliver the same convenience while creating a radically smaller climate footprint.
