In a move set to reshape the future of sustainable aviation, General Index (GX) and ATOBA Energy have announced a new strategic partnership aimed at introducing a more accurate and transparent system for pricing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), reports Biomass Magazine.
The partnership focuses on creating a new generation of SAF benchmarks that reflect the unique costs of the various technologies used to produce sustainable aviation fuel. Unlike fossil jet fuel, which has long relied on uniform pricing systems, SAF is made from a wide range of feedstocks and technologies—each with different costs and carbon reduction benefits. The two companies say these differences require a fresh approach to benchmarking.
For decades, the aviation industry has depended on traditional price reporting services to manage jet fuel costs. But with the global push for net-zero emissions by 2050, SAF has emerged as a key solution—and it requires new tools to support investment and scale.
ATOBA Energy emphasized that building confidence among investors and securing long-term purchase agreements for new SAF production facilities are urgent priorities. They say that transparent, reliable price indexes tailored to specific SAF production methods are essential to achieving these goals.
“Creating transparent and technology-specific SAF price benchmarks is critical to scaling sustainable aviation fuel markets,” said Neil Bradford, CEO and founder of General Index. “We’re already the official benchmark partner for the European Commission’s 2024 Aviation Fuels Reference Prices under ReFuelEU Aviation. Now, working with ATOBA Energy, we’re laying the groundwork to drive investment and help aviation transition to net zero.”
Arnaud Namer, CEO and co-founder of ATOBA Energy, added, “Unlocking investment in sustainable aviation fuel starts with transparency, market confidence, and trusted pricing tools. Our partnership with General Index allows us to deliver SAF pricing that reflects the true cost of production, supporting airlines with competitive and credible price points.”
The new SAF indexes will be designed to align with international regulations, regional market dynamics, and industry needs. By offering pricing that accounts for each technology’s real costs, the initiative aims to build trust among producers, buyers, and investors—ultimately speeding up the growth of the SAF industry.
