UAE’s Masdar and TotalEnergies Partner for Green Hydrogen SAF Production

New Delhi: Abu Dhabi – In a landmark move towards sustainable aviation, Abu Dhabi-based Future Energy Company Masdar and French energy giant TotalEnergies have entered into a significant partnership. This agreement is set to explore and potentially develop a commercial project dedicated to producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through the innovative conversion of green hydrogen.

Project Overview and Objectives

The collaborative effort between Masdar and TotalEnergies is focused on transforming green hydrogen, which is produced from renewable energy sources, into methanol and subsequently into SAF. This process is designed to address emissions in crucial sectors such as aviation and maritime. The project will utilize CO2 captured from industrial sources, further enhancing its sustainability credentials. The initiative aims to reduce the environmental impact of these industries, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change.

Successful Test Flight and Strategic Partnerships

This partnership follows a successful test flight of SAF that was conducted during the COP28 conference held in December 2023. The demonstration flight showcased the viability of converting methanol into SAF, highlighting a promising pathway for reducing carbon emissions in the aviation sector. Masdar has been at the forefront of this field, having established several strategic partnerships over the past three years to advance the SAF sector and support broader sustainability goals.

UAE’s Strategic Goals for SAF

The UAE’s General Policy for Sustainable Aviation Fuel outlines a target to supply 19% of the fuel used by national airlines at UAE airports with SAF produced domestically by 2031. This ambitious goal is part of a broader strategy to develop a regulatory framework that supports the economic operation of SAF production facilities. The policy emphasizes the UAE’s commitment to reducing aviation sector emissions and promoting sustainable practices within the industry.

Alignment with National Policies

This agreement is in line with Abu Dhabi’s Low Carbon Hydrogen Policy, which aims to enhance the promotion of low-carbon hydrogen as a key energy source for the future. The policy represents a significant step toward achieving economic growth, sustainability, and energy security. Furthermore, it supports the UAE National Hydrogen Strategy, which aspires to establish the UAE as a leading global producer of low-carbon hydrogen by 2031. This strategic alignment underscores the UAE’s dedication to fostering a sustainable energy future.

Masdar’s Vision and Role

Masdar, established in 2006, has been instrumental in promoting the UAE’s global leadership in sustainability and climate action. The company has set an ambitious goal to expand its renewable energy portfolio to a capacity of 100 gigawatts by 2030 and to become a leading producer of green hydrogen by the same year. The partnership with TotalEnergies reinforces Masdar’s role in driving forward the UAE’s renewable energy and sustainability objectives, further establishing the UAE’s position as a leader in the global energy transition.

Future Outlook

The agreement between Masdar and TotalEnergies marks a critical advancement in the UAE’s sustainability efforts and its commitment to achieving its climate goals. By leveraging green hydrogen for SAF production, both companies are not only contributing to a more sustainable future for the aviation sector but also reinforcing the UAE’s strategic objectives in renewable energy and low-carbon technologies. This partnership is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of sustainable aviation and energy practices globally.