The first use of biofuel for the defense sector’s business trips with Norwegian was officially launched at Ålesund Airport Vigra. Norwegian plans to blend 15 percent biofuel into over 1 million business trips by 2028. This agreement is the largest of its kind in Norway’s history and likely the first within a NATO framework.
“This agreement represents a significant advancement in the defense sector’s climate and environmental strategy. The sector aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 20 percent by 2030 and lower emissions from purchased goods and services. Achieving these targets relies heavily on cutting emissions from business travel and the Armed Forces’ flights. The groundwork laid for this initiative is crucial,” stated Chief of Defense Eirik Kristoffersen.
Norwegian has delivered 1 million liters of biofuel to the Ålesund airport with support from the Finnish energy group St1 and fuel supplier AFSN. The biofuel will account for 15 percent of the defense sector’s total consumption during more than 250,000 business trips in 2024, resulting in a CO2 reduction of over 2,000 tonnes this year.
Norway’s Defense Sector Takes the Lead
“The Norwegian defense sector is leading the way. All parties involved can take pride in having developed a model for this agreement that is globally innovative. We hope both the public and private sectors will follow our example,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.
The Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency, which oversees the agreement, affirms that Norway is at the forefront of this initiative.
“We have collaborated with industry stakeholders, organizations, and experts to shape this tender for business travel. We are very pleased with the outcome, which demonstrates our ability to lead in this area. The tender has already garnered international attention,” remarked Per Arne Johnsen, acting director of procurement at the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency.
Short-Distance Biofuels Enhance Supply Security
Currently, no biofuels are produced for aviation in Norway. To ensure local demand is met, the defense sector has mandated that refueling must occur within Norway.
“Access to biofuels is vital for climate goals and also enhances security of supply, particularly when the biofuel is sourced locally. Therefore, the defense sector aims to promote increased production of these fuels in Norway,” emphasized Chief of Defense Eirik Kristoffersen.
Norwegian has opted to source short-haul biofuel from St1’s newly established biorefinery in Gothenburg, Sweden.
“Our bioproducts from Gothenburg allow us to efficiently serve Nordic customers. Voluntary agreements like the one established by the Norwegian defense sector contribute to predictability and enable us to maintain our focus on the energy transition,” stated Henrikki Talvitie, CEO of St1.
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