Fast and derisked: How coprocessing can unlock growing SAF opportunities

For refineries, SAF represents a new and growing opportunity within renewables, and coprocessing is the most practical entry point to take advantage of this increasing market, writes Ignacio Costa from Topsoe

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SUSTAINABLE aviation fuel (SAF) is a central focus of decarbonisation strategies in the aviation sector, and driving the need for increased production are regulatory mandates and incentives, airline commitments and growing public awareness.

Building dedicated renewable units requires significant capital and time, often in a volatile policy and feed-stock environment. Here, coprocessing offers an immediate alternative.

By introducing renewable feed-stocks into existing refinery units, SAF can be produced quickly, with modest investment, and without major disruption to operations.

Coprocessing SAF provides refiners with four key advantages:

Rapid market entry: Using existing assets allows SAF production to start within months, rather than years, making it possible to meet near-term mandates and supply contracts.

Capital efficiency: Only minor modifications are usually required, reducing financial exposure while still generating compliance and revenue benefits.

Operational flexibility: Coprocessing allows renewable content to be adjusted in response to market conditions, feedstock pricing and regulatory changes.

Enhanced value creation: SAF attracts premium pricing, and production generates credits and incentives that strengthen refinery economics.

For decision-makers, this combination of speed, flexibility and profitability makes coprocessing a credible strategic option for meeting SAF requirements without overextending capital budgets.

MINOR MODIFICATIONS NEEDED

Refineries frequently choose coprocessing as a practical, lower-risk entry point into the renewable fuels market because it allows them to utilise existing infrastructure with minimal capital investment and shorter implementation timelines.