New Netherlands SAF Plant Opens: Will It Finally Boost European Supply?

The Netherlands has marked a major milestone in European aviation decarbonization. A new Sustainable Aviation Fuel production facility has opened in Rotterdam. This move aims to increase SAF availability for airlines across the continent. It is a crucial step toward meeting ambitious European climate targets.

Boosting European SAF Capacity

The new facility, operated by a leading producer, significantly boosts supply. It adds up to 500,000 tons per annum (tpa) of SAF capacity. This increases the producer's global SAF capability to 1.5 million tpa. Another major producer is also delivering SAF from its Rotterdam plant since 2025. These projects are vital for the Netherlands SAF plant opening impact. They help secure alternative jet fuel sources for commercial airlines.

The ReFuelEU Mandate Driver

This increased production capacity directly supports the ReFuelEU Aviation mandate. This regulation is part of the EU’s “Fit for 55” climate package. It sets legally binding SAF blending targets for fuel suppliers. The mandate began in 2025 with a minimum 2% SAF blend. It will escalate to 6% by 2030 and 70% by 2050. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) monitors this market growth.

Industry Impact and Challenges

The new plant’s output helps reduce aviation carbon emissions. Currently, SAF accounts for only about 0.53% of global jet fuel use. Europe's current annual SAF capacity is just over 1 million tonnes. However, the realistic capacity is projected to reach 3.2 Mt by 2030. This is expected to meet the 6% mandate requirement.

Commercial airline fuel costs remain a significant challenge. SAF is still three to ten times more expensive than conventional jet fuel. Scaling up production is key to lowering these high costs.

The Role of Airlines and Airports

Fuel suppliers must ensure the mandated SAF is available. Aircraft operators must also uplift at least 90% of their fuel at EU airports. This rule prevents the practice of fuel “tankering.” Tankering means carrying extra fuel to avoid expensive refueling elsewhere. This practice adds weight and increases overall emissions.

International bodies like IATA stress the need for global supply. These new facilities are crucial for the future of sustainable flying. They provide a stable supply signal for further investment. More information on this and other commercial aviation news can be found at flying.flights.

• The new production capacity is up to 500,000 tons per annum (tpa) of SAF.
• This capacity supports the ReFuelEU Aviation mandate, starting at 2% blend in 2025.
• Europe's realistic SAF production capacity is projected to reach 3.2 Mt by 2030.
• SAF prices are currently 3 to 10 times higher than conventional jet fuel.