Cairo: Key Egyptian ministers convened at the Ministry of Petroleum’s headquarters in the New Administrative Capital to streamline efforts for the country’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) initiative, a major step toward eco-friendly air travel, reports Egypt Today.
The meeting brought together the ministers of petroleum, environment, and civil aviation to discuss the project, led by the Egyptian Petrochemicals Holding Company (ECHEM). The initiative is a cornerstone of the petroleum ministry’s strategy to promote sustainable development and reduce environmental impact.
Environment Minister Yasmine Fouad stressed the need for inter-ministerial coordination to accelerate Egypt’s shift toward renewable energy, particularly in aviation—a sector with significant environmental challenges.
She noted that SAF production is crucial for cutting the aviation industry’s carbon emissions. Fouad clarified that carbon credits generated from the project must comply with strict guidelines before being traded. The petroleum ministry has already set emission reduction goals as part of Egypt’s climate commitments and established rules for carbon credit sales.
Fouad also pointed to Egypt’s broader bioeconomy strategy, which encourages biofuel production as a green alternative. Used cooking oil, a primary ingredient for SAF, has been reclassified as a valuable resource following a study by the Waste Management Regulatory Agency.
Tamer Heikal, head of the Egyptian Sustainable Aviation Fuel Company (ESAF), outlined the project’s $530 million business plan, confirming that feasibility studies—conducted with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)—are complete.
The facility, to be built on a 100,000-square-meter plot near Dekheila Port, will use advanced technology to convert used cooking oil into 120,000 tons of SAF per year. The fuel will cater to both local and international markets.
Heikal said the project is now in the process of selecting a technology provider and a construction firm, with backing from four global financial institutions. Efforts are also underway to secure long-term supply agreements for used cooking oil and to market the SAF to airlines worldwide.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the ministries of environment and civil aviation to fast-track the project and ensure its success, marking a major leap in Egypt’s sustainable energy transition.
