Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

MOL Group Advances SAF and HVO Production on World Biodiesel Day

Key highlights
  • The Rijeka Refinery pilot processed 1,000 tonnes of biogenic feedstock with 5% POME.
  • The pilot project preparation took eight months due to new feedstock complexities.
  • Over 400 samples were analyzed at INA's Central Testing Laboratory during the test.
  • MOL Group's SAF production uses renewable feedstocks like cashew nut oil and cooking oil.

Successful Pilot at Rijeka Refinery

On World Biodiesel Day, MOL Group announced the successful production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel HVO at INA's Rijeka Refinery. This pilot project involved processing biocomponents and marks the second successful SAF and HVO production test within the group.

Collaboration and Certification

The Rijeka pilot was conducted in collaboration with Chevron Lummus Global, focusing on co-processing 5% POME with fossil feedstocks. The process, which handled 1,000 tonnes of biogenic feedstock, was certified by Bureau Veritas d.o.o. under the ISCC standard.

Testing and Analysis

Preparation for the pilot took eight months due to the complexities of new feedstock. During the test, over 400 samples were collected and analyzed at INA's Central Testing Laboratory, with biogenic content verified by external labs in Zagreb and Debrecen.

Bratislava Refinery Achievements

Earlier, MOL Group's Bratislava Refinery conducted successful tests producing diesel with HVO and SAF. HVO was derived from cashew nut oil, and SAF was produced using partially refined cooking oil, demonstrating the refinery's capability to produce sustainable aviation fuel.

Strategic Importance

MOL Group's developments in SAF and HVO production are strategically important for climate protection and supply security, given the global shortfall in SAF supply. The company continues to explore biofuel production possibilities, having launched commercial SAF testing in Hungary in 2022.