LanzaJet Selects Teesside's Wilton International for Project Speedbird's Next Sustainable Aviation Fuel Facility

LanzaJet's Project Speedbird: A Leap Towards Sustainable Aviation

LanzaJet, a leading innovator in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) technology, has made a significant announcement regarding its next production facility. Dubbed Project Speedbird, this initiative will take place at Wilton International in Teesside, England, marking a pivotal step in the aviation industry's shift toward greener alternatives.

Strategic Collaboration

The company has entered into a partnership with Sembcorp Utilities (UK) Limited, a subsidiary of Sembcorp Industries Ltd, to develop a plant that converts ethanol into sustainable aviation fuel. In collaboration with British Airways, the project aims to produce over 90,000 tons (30 million gallons) of SAF and sustainable diesel annually. This production will play a critical role in reducing the environmental impact of air travel.

UK's Advanced Fuels Fund has provided substantial grant support for Project Speedbird, indicating the government's commitment to advancing the transition to cleaner energy. The project is anticipated not only to generate approximately 30 high-skilled jobs but also to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 230,000 tons per year—equivalent to the emissions of 26,000 domestic flights with British Airways.

Rationale Behind the Location Choice

The selection of Wilton International was influenced by its strategic location and advanced infrastructure, essential for the production of sustainable aviation fuel. Jimmy Samartzis, CEO of LanzaJet, expressed that this decision highlights Teesside's central role in the energy transition and the UK's broader strategy to decarbonize industries. Utilizing the capabilities of Wilton International enhances the region's position as a leader in alternative energy initiatives, significantly contributing to the UK's clean energy goals.

Addressing Aviation's Carbon Footprint

LanzaJet's collaboration with British Airways focuses on building a local sustainable aviation fuel supply chain. This initiative is a crucial solution for reducing the aviation sector's total CO2 emissions. By aligning technology, investment, and partnerships, Project Speedbird demonstrates substantial potential in tackling the carbon challenges facing the aviation industry today.

The facility will utilize LanzaJet’s patented technology for converting alcohol into jet fuel, which has already been successfully demonstrated at the Freedom Pines Fuels facility in Georgia, USA—the world's first commercial facility for producing SAF from ethanol. Project Speedbird will produce sustainable aviation fuel exclusively from sustainably sourced ethanol, amplifying the positive impact on the local economy.

Community and Environmental Benefits

Carrie Harris, Director of Sustainability at British Airways, shared her enthusiasm over LanzaJet’s decision to base Project Speedbird at Wilton International. She noted that this milestone paves the way for scaling up SAF production in the UK—a critical element in their ambition to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This development is anticipated to bring substantial community benefits, including the creation of various green jobs.

Looking Ahead

Mike Patrick, CEO of Sembcorp Energy UK, expressed excitement about collaborating with LanzaJet at Wilton International. By providing ready-to-use infrastructure, energy, and utility services, Sembcorp supports LanzaJet in developing sustainable and low-carbon solutions. This partnership aligns with their goal to accelerate the energy transition and decarbonize the UK's industry.

As LanzaJet looks to the future, the company is shaping the aviation sector towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly trajectory. Recognized within TIME's list of the 100 Most Influential Companies for 2024, LanzaJet is committed to advancing clean energy transitions in aviation with innovative technology and sustainable fuel production. For further details, visit LanzaJet's website.