The ReFuelEU regulation mandates that jet fuel suppliers must incorporate a growing share of synthetic aviation fuel, known as e-SAF, into their supply starting in 2030. This fuel is produced by combining green hydrogen with captured carbon dioxide.
According to Transport & Environment, most fuel suppliers have failed to establish internal e-SAF production capacity or secure offtake agreements with third-party producers. This lack of investment threatens the ability of the EU to meet its established targets.
Fuel suppliers are now proposing to classify a portion of their biofuel production as e-fuel, arguing that they occasionally utilize green hydrogen during the manufacturing process. This practice is referred to as e-HEFA.
The organization warns that this accounting approach could lead to significant industry-wide consequences. Failure to meet the e-SAF mandates exposes both fuel suppliers and the broader aviation sector to substantial financial penalties.
