Masdar, a leading force in clean energy within the UAE, has entered into an agreement with TotalEnergies to evaluate the potential for developing a commercial project that converts green hydrogen to methanol to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
Focus on Decarbonizing Emission-Intensive Sectors
The primary aim of this initiative is to assist in reducing emissions in challenging sectors such as aviation and maritime industries.
The project plans to capture CO2 from an industrial source to be used as a feedstock, along with green hydrogen derived from renewable energy-powered electrolysis, to produce green methanol and SAF.
Demonstrating Potential at COP28
This agreement followed a successful test flight carried out by Masdar and TotalEnergies during COP28 in December 2023, showcasing the feasibility of converting methanol to SAF.
Strategic Partnerships and Green Hydrogen
Aviation has been a significant focus for Masdar’s green hydrogen endeavors. Over the last three years, the company has established numerous strategic alliances aimed at fostering the development and expansion of the SAF sector.
UAE’s Commitment to Sustainable Aviation Fuel
The UAE’s General Policy for Sustainable Aviation Fuel has set a voluntary goal of supplying 1% of fuel to national airlines at UAE airports with locally produced SAF by 2031.
This policy also aims to create a national regulatory framework for SAF by exploring supportive policies for the long-term economic operation of SAF facilities in the UAE.
Alignment with Abu Dhabi’s Low Carbon Hydrogen Policy
The agreement aligns with Abu Dhabi’s Low Carbon Hydrogen Policy, anticipated to play a crucial role in promoting low-carbon hydrogen as a future energy source.
This policy represents a significant milestone in ensuring economic growth, sustainability, and energy security, marking a strategic step towards a sustainable future.
Complementing the UAE National Hydrogen Strategy
The Low Carbon Hydrogen Policy complements the UAE National Hydrogen Strategy, which aims to establish the UAE as a leading global producer of low-carbon hydrogen by 2031.
This strategic move underscores the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and energy innovation.
Conclusion
Masdar’s collaboration with TotalEnergies on the green hydrogen to methanol to SAF project is a pivotal development in the UAE’s efforts to decarbonize critical industries.
This initiative is poised to contribute significantly to sustainable aviation, aligning with national policies and strategies to secure a sustainable energy future.