Repsol produces Spain's first batch of aviation biofuel

SPANISH energy company Repsol has produced the national market’s first batch of aviation biofuel. The 7,000 t batch, which was derived from biomass, will prevent 440 t of carbon dioxide from being released into the atmosphere.

Spain’s Integrated National Climate and Energy Plan 2021–2030 acknowledges biofuels as the most widely available and widely used renewable technology in transport. Furthermore, it adds that in sectors such as aviation, such fuel will continue to be the only way to reduce fossil fuel use over the coming years.

The biojet – biomass-derived jet fuel – produced by Repsol has a less than 5% biocontent to meet standards established by international specifications. Additionally, it has passed the “demanding” tests such products require, says Repsol.

According to Repsol, this recent milestone allows it to advance in the production of low-carbon industries, where alternatives like electrification are not currently viable. The company will continue to manufacture additional batches at its facilities across Spain and through initiatives using biofuels from waste at a later time.

Repsol says that due to the importance of biofuels in reducing emissions, it began working on different low-carbon solutions for transportation several years ago. The company’s focus on promoting biofuels, as well as renewable generation, synthetic fuels, green hydrogen, self-consumption, and the circular economy, is a key line of work as the company aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. In December 2019, Repsol outlined plans to achieve this goal.