Latvia-based NorSAF has chosen PureSAF technology for its planned sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production facility, marking a key step forward in the development of cleaner aviation fuels in Europe.
The announcement was made on May 28 by Texas-based engineering, science and technology company KBR, which will provide its proprietary PureSAF technology for the proposed plant, Ethanol Producer Magazine reported.
The facility, planned at the Port of Liepaja in Latvia, is expected to produce 100,000 metric tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel annually. Commercial operations are currently targeted to begin in 2031.
PureSAF technology was originally developed by Swedish Biofuels AB, with KBR serving as the exclusive licensing and commercial deployment partner. The technology can convert a range of feedstocks, including ethanol, syngas, carbon dioxide and hydrogen, into sustainable aviation fuel, diesel and gasoline.
According to project plans, the biorefinery will manufacture both SAF from advanced ethanol and eSAF using green hydrogen and biogenic carbon dioxide, creating multiple pathways for low-carbon fuel production.
KBR President of Sustainable Technology Solutions Jay Ibrahim said the project would support Latvia’s efforts to develop cleaner aviation fuel while strengthening Europe’s position in sustainable fuel innovation.
He noted that the PureSAF process can expand SAF production while allowing carbon dioxide and syngas to be processed within the same facility. The technology also produces jet fuel that can be used directly without blending with conventional aviation fuel.
NorSAF board member Jānis Kisiels said the project reflects growing efforts across Europe to improve energy security and reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports.
He stated that recent global developments have highlighted the importance of energy independence not only as an economic objective but also as a matter of regional and national security. By using feedstocks sourced within Europe, the project aims to build a more resilient and self-sufficient energy system while supporting industrial growth across the region.
The proposed biorefinery is expected to contribute to Europe’s expanding sustainable aviation fuel sector as governments and industries work toward reducing emissions from air transport and increasing the use of renewable fuels.
