Metafuels: Pioneering Sustainable Aviation Fuels with Methanol Synthesis
Key Ideas
  • Metafuels, a Swiss startup, is utilizing methanol synthesis at the Paul Scherrer Institute to produce e-SAFs, aiming for a more efficient and cost-effective process.
  • Their pilot project and demonstration plant have shown promising results, with projections indicating significant cost savings and efficiency gains compared to traditional Fischer-Tropsch processes.
  • Metafuels has secured substantial funding, totaling $22 million, and is actively planning to set up e-SAF facilities in Denmark and The Netherlands, with the Danish plant potentially operational by 2028.
  • In addition to producing e-SAFs, Metafuels aims to commercialize its technology through licensing agreements, opening up opportunities for global market penetration and collaboration with airlines and fuel suppliers.
Metafuels, a Swiss startup based in Würenlingen, is at the forefront of developing sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) using e-methanol at the Paul Scherrer Institute. By utilizing methanol synthesis instead of the conventional Fischer-Tropsch process, Metafuels aims to produce e-SAFs more efficiently and cost-effectively. The startup's pilot project and demonstration plant have shown promising results, with projections suggesting significant cost savings and efficiency gains compared to traditional methods. With a diverse team and collaborations with the Paul Scherrer Institute, Metafuels is deploying advanced technologies like AspenTech's digital twin to enhance its production process and refine its e-SAF product, Aerobrew. Metafuels has successfully raised $22 million in funding, with plans to establish e-SAF facilities in Denmark and The Netherlands. The startup is actively engaging in early offtake conversations and forming partnerships with airlines, fuel suppliers, airports, and corporate travelers. Metafuels also intends to commercialize its technology through licensing agreements, offering opportunities for global market expansion. Overall, the innovative approach of Metafuels in producing e-SAFs through methanol synthesis showcases a positive sentiment towards sustainable aviation and technological advancement in the industry.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.