Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 19, Allied Biofuels FE LLC and India’s Praj Industries Ltd announced on November 17 that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to build what will become Central Asia’s largest ethanol refinery in Uzbekistan’s Khorezm region.

Under the agreement, Praj Industries will provide first-generation ethanol technology, proprietary equipment, and comprehensive support covering design, engineering, procurement, and commissioning. The planned facility is expected to produce 890 tonnes of 95% ethanol per day, equivalent to roughly 293,700 tonnes annually, using sorghum as the primary feedstock. The refinery will also capture biogenic CO₂ generated during production.

Allied Biofuels plans to convert this ethanol into 160,400 tonnes of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and 5,040 tonnes of green diesel each year. Biogenic CO₂ will be combined with synthesis gas and green hydrogen, produced via 2,000 MW of PEM electrolysers, to generate 257,000 tonnes of Electro-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (e-SAF) annually.

This project marks the first phase of establishing Central Asia’s first integrated refinery for SAF, e-SAF, and green diesel. The initiative aligns with Uzbekistan’s climate objectives and the targets of the national Net Zero Emissions Office, supporting the country’s transition to cleaner energy.

“This MOU is a landmark moment for Uzbekistan and for Central Asia’s clean-energy future,” said Alfred Benedict, Chairman and Managing Director of Allied Biofuels. “This project will strengthen energy security, reduce emissions, and create long-term economic opportunities for the region.”

Praj Industries Chairman Dr. Pramod Chaudhari added: “With our proven expertise and advanced technologies, Praj will help develop the ethanol facility and support Uzbekistan in advancing its sustainability targets.”

The project is expected to create hundreds of skilled jobs in the region, contributing to economic growth while enhancing Uzbekistan’s position in advanced biofuels. By integrating ethanol production with SAF and green diesel facilities, the initiative represents a comprehensive approach to sustainable energy production and emissions reduction.

Officials noted that the refinery’s operations will leverage both local feedstocks and advanced technologies, aiming to optimize efficiency and environmental performance. The collaboration between Allied Biofuels and Praj underscores the importance of international partnerships in scaling up clean-energy infrastructure in Central Asia.

The development is part of a broader effort to establish a robust biofuels sector in the region, supporting energy diversification and reducing reliance on conventional fossil fuels. By producing SAF, e-SAF, and green diesel at scale, the project aims to meet growing demand for sustainable transport fuels while contributing to global climate goals.

Overall, the agreement represents a strategic step for Uzbekistan’s energy transition, promoting technological innovation, sustainable fuel production, and long-term regional economic benefits. The integrated refinery is expected to become a model for future clean-energy projects across Central Asia.