Sasol and Topsoe refocus SAF partnership; Zaffra JV to wind down
- Zaffra joint venture, established in 2023, will undergo an orderly operational wind-down.
- The Single Point Licensor (SPL) framework, set up in 2019, will remain central to collaboration.
- Six licences have already been signed under the SPL framework.
- Partners have collaborated for more than 30 years and will assess targeted structures for select projects and initiatives.
Background
The companies have partnered for more than 30 years. Zaffra was formed in 2023 to combine Sasol’s advanced Fischer–Tropsch fuel technology with Topsoe’s clean fuels technologies to pursue emerging sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) opportunities.
Decision and rationale
After a strategic review, the partners decided to refocus the organisational structure for the next phase of SAF market development and to prepare for an orderly operational wind-down of Zaffra. The change is positioned as an adjustment to collaboration models rather than a withdrawal from SAF initiatives.
SPL framework and future collaboration
Collaboration will continue through the Single Point Licensor (SPL) framework established in 2019, which will remain central to their technology-led relationship. Six licences have already been signed under SPL, and the companies will keep offering integrated technology solutions while assessing whether more targeted structures suit selected projects or priority initiatives.
Transition approach
The wind-down will be managed in a disciplined, orderly and compliant manner. The partners say they will engage Zaffra’s customers, value-chain partners, employees and other stakeholders to protect relationships, reduce uncertainty and support continuity during the transition.
Source: Topsoe