How Important Is Adnoc Getting ISCC Certification For Sustainable Aviation Fuel Use?

In a first for a company in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company’s Ruwais refinery has received the International Sustainability Carbon Certification (ISCC).

The international certification will allow Adnoc to supply its Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to international airlines at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

SAF refers to alternative fuels, with Adnoc’s SAF produced from used cooking oil feedstock that is blended with jet fuel at the company’s Ruwais refinery.

First Batch Of SAF To Be Available Later This Month

As the state energy company pushes ahead with its decarbonisation plan, the first batch of its Sustainable Aviation Fuel will be available later this month.

The development of SAF is a “key part of our strategy to deliver lower carbon fuels to our customers,” said Sultan Al Bigishi, acting chief executive of Adnoc Refining.

The UAE has pledged to reach net zero by 2050, backed by a Dh600 billion investment in clean and renewable energy sources over the next 30 years.

SAF Making Up Just 0.15% Of Global Jet Fuel Supply

Sustainable Aviation Fuel is made from renewable sources and is crucial for the critically polluting global aviation industry to reach its net zero goal by the middle of the century.

According to the International Air Transport Association, SAF could contribute about 65% of the reduction in emissions needed by the aviation industry to reach its goals.

However, producing the required quantities would necessitate large areas of land and natural resources, with the alternative fuel making up just 0.15% of the global jet fuel supply.

Emirates Reaffirms Its Commitment To Sustainability

Meanwhile, Emirates on October 2 said it inked a deal with Shell Aviation for the supply of more than 300,000 gallons of blended SAF for use at its hub in Dubai.

The first delivery is expected to start before the end of 2023, making it the first time the clean fuel is supplied through the Dubai International Airport’s fuelling system.

The airline has repeatedly reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability, focusing on key areas such as reducing emissions, generating clean energy and consuming responsibly.