The Future of Sustainable Aviation Fuel: From CO2 Capture to E-Fuels
Key Ideas
- Summit Carbon pipeline agreements with ethanol plants set the stage for producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from captured CO2.
- US ethanol producers face challenges in qualifying for aviation fuel credits due to specific climate-friendly farming practices.
- Treasury Department and IRS guidance highlight CO2 as an eligible feedstock for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit.
- E-fuels, produced using hydrogen from various sources including CO2 capture, are predicted to play a significant role in low-carbon aviation fuel production.
The article discusses the potential of producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from captured CO2 along the Summit Carbon pipeline route, involving agreements with ethanol plants. Challenges faced by ethanol producers in qualifying for aviation fuel credits due to specific farming practices are highlighted. The Treasury Department and IRS guidance recognize CO2 as an eligible feedstock for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. E-fuels, utilizing hydrogen from sources like CO2 capture, are expected to outpace ethanol-based SAF production. Notably, companies like Twelve and Dimensional Energy are pioneering SAF production using CO2, water, and electricity. Political figures like Tom Steyer and activists like Jane Kleeb are involved in clean energy initiatives and opposition to fossil fuel infrastructure. The push towards e-fuels emphasizes the need for clean energy sources and significant capital investment.