en.Wedoany.com Reported - Latvian sustainable fuel developer NorSAF has signed a permanent license agreement with KBR to deploy PureSAF technology, potentially laying the foundation for Europe's first commercial-scale facility capable of producing 100% direct alternative sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The facility, planned for the Port of Liepāja in Latvia, aims to produce SAF derived from advanced bioethanol, as well as e-fuels (eSAF) produced from green hydrogen and biogenic carbon dioxide. The PureSAF technology was originally developed by Swedish Biofuels AB, with KBR holding exclusive rights for its commercial deployment. Unlike traditional SAF production routes, this technology produces fuel that is chemically highly similar to conventional fossil-based aviation kerosene, allowing it to be used directly in existing aircraft engines and refueling infrastructure without any modifications. The technology is currently certified for blending up to 50% with conventional aviation kerosene. Industry participants expect that by 2026, following ASTM approval processes, Europe could achieve certification for 100% direct replacement use.
The agreement grants NorSAF exclusive rights to deploy the technology, laying a strategic foundation for the company's long-term sustainable aviation fuel strategy. Project development and final construction remain subject to strategic partner support and additional investment.
The facility is expected to produce 100,000 tons of SAF and eSAF annually, with operations initially targeted to begin in 2031. The project aligns with the requirements of the EU's ReFuelEU Aviation regulation, which mandates a gradual increase in the use of sustainable aviation fuel in the aviation sector by 2050. NorSAF plans to source raw materials entirely within Europe, combining renewable electricity, green hydrogen, and captured biogenic carbon dioxide to form a closed-loop production process.
The project directly supports European aviation decarbonization and energy security goals. According to the company, the fuel can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 83% compared to conventional aviation kerosene production, while enhancing Europe's energy independence and industrial resilience. Project leaders stated that the initiative could transform the Port of Liepāja into a regional sustainable fuel hub, positioning Latvia as a key contributor to Europe's emerging SAF value chain.
NorSAF is also collaborating with aviation partner Avia Solutions Group, whose subsidiary Baltic Ground Services has experience in sustainable aviation fuel supply and distribution, helping to establish pathways from production to airline customers across Europe.
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