Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) produced from renewable hydrogen represent a significant innovation in the decarbonization of the aviation sector
These sustainable fuels are produced through processes that combine renewable hydrogen, produced by water electrolysis using renewable energy, with captured carbon dioxide.
The essential advantage of using SAF as a fuel is that it does not require any new infrastructure or modifications to the existing ones. Moreover, it should not be considered the only option for energy transition in the airport sector: both hydrogen and electricity can be used together and in any combination for flights up to 3,000 km. A blend of 50% SAF and 50% kerosene would emit 40% less CO2 than conventional aviation fuel alone.
However, SAF is currently four times more expensive than conventional kerosene. Its current use represents 0.1% of global consumption. Its market success will require a variety of raw materials and production methods to make it competitive.
The main bottlenecks to the proper development and deployment of SAF technologies are:
- Inadequate institutional support to promote the expansion of SAF.
- Lack of access to SAF in logistics chains and airport infrastructure.
- Limited availability of feedstock and associated infrastructure.
Existing facilities capable of producing SAF also produce other type of fuels, such as renewable diesel, so SAF production is in “competition” with lower cost, and easier to produce products.
To support the development of SAF technologies, governments must develop policies that efficiently accelerate the production and commercialization of this alternative fuel, work together with other governments to promote cross-cutting policies, and propose the following incentives:
- Tax relief and exemptions for production, sale, or acquisition.
- Public capital support and loan guarantees for production facilities.
- Raw material subsidies or similar support mechanisms.
- Financial market policies, such as preferential treatment of tailored financial instruments.
- Accounting policies, including amortization programs.
- Research and development programs and support are also essential.
Furthermore, since the European Union and the U.S. do not currently work in unison regarding SAF policies, globally recognized sustainability standards should be adopted, and current standards should be harmonized.
In conclusion, this technology shows great potential, but it still needs considerable investment, tax incentives, and significant collaboration between countries and companies to enable its proper development.
