The SAF Podcast

In this episode of the SAF Podcast, Oscar chats with Frank Schreurs, co-founder of GAFT, about the innovative approaches his company is taking to revolutionize sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Joining us from his holiday in Sweden, Frank provides a detailed look into GAFT's mission and the challenges the aviation fuel industry faces.

Frank's career spans over two decades in the energy sector, including significant experience in oil trading, M&A, and biodiesel production. This rich background set the stage for his entrepreneurial journey into sustainable fuels. GAFT, originally a CO2 utilization company, evolved into a pioneering firm addressing the critical issue of feedstock shortages for SAF production. Frank explains how GAFT utilizes second-generation sugars, crude glycerin, and advanced electrolysis processes to create local, sustainable feedstocks from CO2 and electricity turning them into valuable lipid feedstocks for HEFA SAF production.

Frank explains GAFT's strategy to license their technology to Biofuel producers so they can upscale their crude glycerin bi-product, whilst also pursuing their own first of a kind facility to produce their lipid feedstock.

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the challenges of securing reliable and sustainable feedstock supplies. With Europe importing a majority of its used cooking oil from Asia, Frank highlights the inherent issues of dependence on external sources and potential sustainability fraud. GAFT's innovative technology aims to mitigate these risks by producing feedstocks locally, ensuring a more stable and transparent supply chain and producing feedstock that can be put straight into existing refining infrastructure.

Frank also shares insights into the investment landscape, acknowledging the hurdles but expressing optimism due to strategic interest from both financial and technology sectors. They have so far been backed by the EIC and are currently working on the series A which can find the FOAK facility and expand the team.

This episode is a must-listen for those concerned about the Used Cooking Oil importation situation and this could provide another solution to scaling the HEFA pathway and de-coupling it from Asian feedstock importation.

If you enjoyed this episode, catch our recent discussion with Mukund Karanjikar, CleanJoule: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/15427620

On this week's episode Mukund Karanjikar, CEO, CleanJoule joins Oscar on The SAF Podcast to discuss their approach to accessing biomass to create sustainable aviation fuel.

Listen in to hear Mukund's thoughts on the debate around the availability of waste biomass as a feedstock to accommodate demand levels and the importance of Carbon Intensity (CI) scores. We also look at the role that government grants have had in helping CleanJoule get to their current stage, since their founding in 2009. Mukund highlights how critical these grants are, highlighting the example of Tesla and other start ups that rely on government funding.

We also look at the signals of long term certainty and how the current form of the Inflation Reduction Act could do more in financial support for producers, potentially looking at aligning with oil prices to truly unlock SAF production, rather than the maximum $1.75 currently available. We also discuss how targets like the SAF Grand Challenge and mandates align with financial incentives to to give longer term certainty to investors, and what we can expect to see in 2027 when the current tax incentives expire.

We end the discussion by looking at the private consortium that invested in them including three airlines (Frontier, Wizz Air and Volaris) and two decarbonisation investment funds (GenZero and Cleanhill Partners). This is an optimistic tale of airlines engaging in securing their decarbonised future and poses the inevitable question of should/could they be doing more?

This is a fantastic discussion, but if you want to hear about another key industry in developing the SAF market, listen to our recent episode with Sven Rieve, Air bp: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/15390671

Host and Producer: Oscar Henderson, SAF Investor

This week on the SAF Podcast,  SAF Investor Editor Fayaz Hussain has a conversation with Sven Rieve, Airbp's sustainability advisor. Rieve dives deep into Airbp's strategy for conquering the skies with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

We explore their current production footprint, the diverse feedstocks used, and the markets they're targeting.

The discussion takes off with Airbp's commitment to increasing SAF production capacity in key regions like Europe, the UK, and the US. Rieve sheds light on Airbp's preference for co-processing as a production method and explains why they're keeping a watchful eye on emerging pathways for future investment.

The conversation then steers towards regulations. Rieve offers Airbp's perspective on the Renewable Energy Directive and the crucial role of feedstocks within the European regulatory framework. He proposes a compelling solution – a focus on cultivating cover crops – to address Europe's growing need for SAF feedstocks.

We wrap up by exploring the contrasting regulatory landscapes across the UK, US, and Europe. Rieve analyzes how these differences will shape the future trajectory of SAF supply and demand, offering valuable insights for industry stakeholders.

 If you enjoyed this episode, catch our recent discussion with Jonathan Yeo, FlyORO about blending SAF and the supply chain challenges: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/15360818

Host: Fayaz Hussain, SAF Investor
Producer: Oscar Henderson, SAF Investor

This week on The SAF Podcast, Jonathan Yeo, CEO, FlyORO joins Oscar to discuss the operational and supply chain logistic challenges that SAF presents.

One of SAF's many benefits is its drop in nature, and ability to work within existing infrastructure. However, currently it still needs to be blended with kerosene. This is not as simple as someone mixing the two together with a large whisk. As Jonathan explains, the precision required to blend SAF and Kerosene to meet certification standards is significant and the requirement to blend according to market demand requires flexibility not currently found in airport infrastructure.

Jonathan explains that their Alphalite modular system designed to optimise blend efficiencies, making SAF more accessible for both business and commercial aviation. Almost akin to a Nespresso coffee machine (other brands are available), blending the perfect amount of water and coffee. We also look at how a modular solution can deal with the inevitable ramp up in SAF production to service the expected growth in demand.

We then dive into FlyORO's finances and discuss the pre-Series A funding they received earlier this year and plans for further rounds in early 2025. Jonathan also highlights why they are targeting strategic investors and the benefits they bring. The episode ends with their expansion plans in Australia and the US and why they are two markets that are particularly attractive and the role of Book and Claim in helping scale SAF whilst there is a continued paucity of physical molecules.
 

If you enjoyed this episode, check out our most recent episode with Tom Berg, SkyNRG where we discuss their recent SAF Market Outlook report: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/15275823

Host and Producer: Oscar Henderson, SAF Investor

Join us in this week's episode of The SAF Podcast as we welcome back SkyNRG as Tom Berg unpacks their latest Market Outlook report.

Tom shares the reason why they produce these reports, the meticulous methodology behind their report, which filtered 350 renewable fuel facilities down to 210. We dive into the major themes that appear from the report: Global policy developments and how important it is they develop into regulatory frameworks and the implication on global production opportunities, the competition for feedstock for Used Cooking Oil (UCO) and Renewable Diesel producers and whether delays in expected ramp ups should be concerning.

With the report being in it's fourth year, we ask Tom what they are now able to analyse that they were not previously and what can be learnt about market developments by mapping their predictions from previous editions. 

We also discuss the regional implications on policy certainty and how trade corridors can be seen to be opening, aligning with policy criteria and feedstock requirements. Tom also tells us what regions he thinks are ones to watch, which region he wants to hear more from.

We can't wait to have this conversation next year to discuss the findings and market development in 2025.

You should check out the full report here, well worth a read: https://skynrg.com/skynrg-releases-sustainable-aviation-fuel-market-outlook-2024/

If you enjoyed this check out our last episode with Dani Charles, Veriflux where we discuss US tax incentives and the requirements of accurate record keeping in biofuels and SAF: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/15236511

Host and Producer: Oscar Henderson, SAF Investor

This week, we sit down with Dani Charles, Veriflux, who talks through his fascinating journey from government tech to co-founding a pioneering company in the renewable feedstock industry. Dani reveals how Veriflux, since its inception in 2020, has grown to support over 350 companies worldwide by revolutionizing the tracking of used cooking oil and other feedstocks. His insights underscore the critical importance of accurate record-keeping for regulatory compliance and market differentiation, especially in distinguishing renewable fuels like Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Ever wondered how US environmental policies and incentives come to life? Join us as we unpack the intricate legislative process including the Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Transport, Treasury and Securities and Exchange Comission. Through detailed examples like the renewable fuel standard and the Inflation Reduction Act, we shed light on the complex and often collaborative efforts required to enforce these regulations. We also examine the challenges stakeholders face with incentives such as Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs) and Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) credits, emphasizing the complications that arise from varying guidelines.

As eco-fuel production gains momentum, what hurdles do new entrants face? We delve into the implications of the Inflation Reduction Act credits expiring in 2027 and how this impacts the renewable energy industry. We discuss the benefits that incumbents hold over newcomers and the role state-level tax credits play in promoting local production. We also explore the updates to the IRA to include Argonne National Laboratory's GREET model and the transition from 40B to 45Z at the end of the year and what this means in practice.

 Additionally, we explore the transformative power of digitizing supply chains for sustainability, highlighting the necessity of robust data management to support ESG and net zero goals. Tune in to understand how comprehensive data collection not only substantiates environmental claims but also drives the future of renewable energy and sustainable aviation fuel.

If you enjoyed this episode, check out our recent episode with Vianney Vales, Wastefront here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/15196527

Host & Producer: Oscar Henderson, SAF Investor 

What if getting your tyres replaced on your car not only protected you on the road, but also helped save the planet? Currently 50 million end of life tyres are generated annually in the UK and 80% of them are exported to the EU to be burnt. What if a sustainable solution could help dispose of them but also not need for them to be exported overseas.

This week Vianney Vales, Wastefront joins Oscar on The SAF Podcast as we uncover the revolutionary process of transforming end-of-life tires into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Vianney, with his extensive background in the oil and gas, biofuels and project management sectors shares his journey towards innovative biofuels and climate solutions, shedding light on Wastefront's groundbreaking approach. We explore the dual-step process of converting waste tires into pyrolysis oil and then into SAF, delving into the significant environmental benefits and the advancements at their first industrial facility in Sunderland, UK.

Embarking on the journey of developing large-scale industrial projects in the UK is no small feat and on that many companies are currently tackling. Vianney provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the essential stages, from securing permits to finalizing supply chains and preparing for construction. Highlighting the project in Sunderland, he discusses first why they chose Sunderland as their first site, the hurdles and triumphs of funding such innovative ventures in Europe compared to the US. The conversation underscores the importance of early-stage funding, revealing the strategic steps that helped Wastefront de-risk and validate their project, and the ongoing capital raise efforts to secure strategic partners for the next construction phase.

Investment in pyrolysis projects presents a compelling proposition, offering both immediate profitability and long-term growth potential. Vianney outlines the strategies for attracting investors, balancing risk and reward, and the importance of clear communication. We delve into the challenges of creating scalable and profitable pyrolysis projects, the interplay between government mandates and private sector risk tolerance, and the UK's positive trajectory with its SAF mandate.

Vianney also suggests locations they are looking at for their next facilities and we discuss why a well known city called Springfield could be an excellent candidate.

If you enjoyed this discussion about finding use from waste, check out our previous episode with James Hygate, Firefly Green Fuels, who is working on making SAF from sewage: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/14092944

Host and Producer: Oscar Henderson, SAF Investor 

This week Maurits van Tol, CEO Catalyst Technologies, Johnson Matthey joins Oscar on The SAF Podcast.

Hot on the heels of the announcement that their FT Cans technology, developed with bp. will be used for DG Fuels' $4bn St John's Parish, Louisiana facility. Billed as being the largest Fischer Tropsch facility in the world with a capacity of 300,000 metric tonnes per year.

We discuss the development of the CANS technology alongside bp, where it fits in in the process and the challenges of working on a project of this scale. We touch on whether the SAF industry needs more ambitious projects of this size to meet targets or if smaller modular facilities is the way to go for faster project development. Oil and Gas is never far away in a SAF conversation so Maurits shares his thoughts on their ongoing role in growing production and decarbonising quickly.

We also discuss the Virgin Atlantic transatlantic 100% SAF flight in November last year and the role Johnson Matthey had in making that happen and the importance of flights like this in bringing the work being done in aviation to decarbonise the industry.

We conclude with the far-reaching impact of life cycle assessments on decision-making in this sector, emphasizing that informed choices are imperative for the sustainable growth of the aviation fuel landscape. Join us for this deep exploration into the intersection of technology, sustainability, and the future of aviation fuels.

This is a great conversation with a leader in SAF technology development and licensing, so don't miss out on Maurits excellent insight.

If you enjoyed this episode check out our previous episode with Jose Fernandes, Honeywell that focuses on the Latin American market from another leader in the licensing space: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/15072192

Host and Producer: Oscar Henderson, SAF Investor

This week The SAF Podcast ventures to the land of salsa dancing, ethanol production, rainforests and the Andes as Oscar is delighted to be joined to Jose Fernandes, President - Latin America, Honeywell.

Jose explains to us the different verticals Honeywell operates in, especially Honeywell UOP and their SAF technology licensing business, and how they are working to their target of reaching net zero operations by 2035. We discuss the projects they are currently involved in in the Latin America region alongside biofuel producer and Oil and Gas giant, Petrobras.

We also dive into what makes Latin America such a great place to produce SAF, with a rich agricultural landscape generating an abundance of potential feedstock and already mature HVO and Ethanol markets to use as a platform. With strong ties to the US and other international investment markets, Jose is confident that alongside the available domestic investment and incoming policy certainty that is currently being finalised, the financial and policy landscape are fast making Latin America an attractive proposition for SAF production. We also touch on the role of Oil and Gas and the critical relationship between licensors and Oil & Gas to drive global production.

We also discuss Honeywell's recently announced Unicracking technology working with Biomass and how they can claim for it to have a 3-5% higher yield whilst also reducing costs.

This is a great insight into a world leading SAF technology licensor who are at the heart of global production with 50 licenses sold and an expert insight into why Latin America could become the soul of the industry, 

If you like this episode do check out our previous discussion with Oskar Meijerink, SkyNRG here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/14996727-the-saf-podcast-skynrg-s-journey-from-procurement-to-production.mp3?download=true

Host and Producer: Oscar Henderson, SAF Investor

On this week's episode you get not one, but two Oscars as Oskar Meijerink, SkyNRG  to discuss the transition from procurement to production with Oscar on The SAF Podcast.

Oskar has been with SkyNRG since he left university where he wrote a dissertation on project finance for Sustainable Aviation Fuels. He has since been working on the project side, being kept busy with a HEFA project being developed in Delfzijl, Biomass Fischer-Tropsch facility in the Pacific northwest and their eSAF facility under development in Amsterdam.

Oskar shares the progress of each location, why they are working across pathways, the process of choosing where to place SAF refineries and what feedstocks to use. All of these decisions are critical if projects are to get to Final Investment Decision. This is something we explore in detail as we explore the challenges of finding investment and what building blocks need to be put in place to best position projects to receive favourable investment decisions. We also touch on the recent Topco investment by Macquarie Asset Management and how encouraging this is for inevestor sentiment on the companies overall strategy.

We end the episode by reflecting on the demand side of the market and how SkyNRG's history in this with their Fly on SAF solution and how critical a component understanding of market demand is when considering SAF production.  Having already helped over 40 airlines reach sustainability goals, as well as corporate customers, travel companies and airline customers decarbonise their air travel, Oskar highlights why the understanding of the demand environment drove them towards getting involved on the supply side.

This is a fantastic episode that gets into the real detail of building SAF projects and the opportunities and challenges that they present.

If you liked this episode, listen to our recent podcast with Mihir Dange, XCF Global Capital and Wray Thorn, Focus Impact Partners, to find out what the investor and producer dynamic is like in the everyday https://www.buzzsprout.com/2202964/14904940

Host and Producer: Oscar Henderson, SAF Investor