Syzygy Plasmonics is pushing the boundaries of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production with the launch of a pioneering commercial project in Uruguay. Backed by Fischer-Tropsch technology provider Velocys, the NovaSAF 1 facility aims to produce 500,000 gallons of drop-in jet fuel annually—using dairy waste and biogas as feedstocks, and powered entirely by renewable electricity.
What sets NovaSAF 1 apart is its approach: no green hydrogen, no gasification, and no reliance on water-intensive or capital-heavy infrastructure. Instead, Syzygy’s proprietary light-driven e-Reforming technology generates a 2:1 syngas ratio—ideal for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis—directly from biogenic methane and carbon dioxide. This approach streamlines the SAF production process while reducing costs and environmental impact.
To convert this syngas into high-yield jet fuel, Syzygy has partnered with Velocys, whose microFTL platform is known for its reliability and high fuel conversion efficiency—key components in lowering the overall cost of synthetic fuel production.
“This project demonstrates that profitable SAF production doesn’t have to depend on future infrastructure,” said Trevor Best, CEO of Syzygy Plasmonics. “With Velocys, we’re deploying a modular, cost-effective solution that’s scalable. Uruguay is just the beginning.”
Matthew Viergutz, CEO of Velocys, added, “We’re proud to contribute our Fischer-Tropsch technology to a project that’s helping redefine what’s possible in SAF production. This is innovation in action—fast, adaptable, and designed for impact.”
NovaSAF 1 Project at a Glance:
Annual Capacity: 500,000 gallons of ASTM D7566-compliant SAF
Feedstocks: Dairy waste, biogenic methane, and CO₂
Energy Source: 100% renewable electricity
Technologies Used: Syzygy’s NovaSAF™ platform and Velocys’ microFTL™ system
Key Milestones: Final Investment Decision (FID) expected in Q4 2025; operations to begin in Q1 2027
Certifications Underway: CORSIA, EU RED II/RFNBO, California LCFS, U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS)
Thanks to its modular architecture and adaptable feedstock options, NovaSAF 1 is designed for rapid replication. With more than 50,000 potential biogas sites globally, Syzygy and Velocys aim to scale up SAF production in a way that aligns with global climate goals and market demands—while proving that sustainable fuel can also be commercially viable.
