SkyNRG and KLM start work on first dedicated SAF facility

SkyNRG and KLM have started the construction of DSL-01, the Netherlands’ first facility fully dedicated to the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Located in Delfzijl, the project marks a major milestone in scaling up SAF production in the Netherlands and advancing the decarbonisation of aviation.

Developed by SkyNRG, DSL-01 is also the first commercial-scale SAF plant globally to secure non-recourse project financing, highlighting growing confidence in scalable SAF production and establishing a model for future sustainable fuel projects worldwide.

KLM Dutch Royal Airlines is the primary off-taker for the SAF produced, playing a key role in enabling the project through its long-term offtake commitment.

Once fully operational in 2028, the facility is expected to produce approximately 100,000 tonnes of SAF annually using low-quality feedstocks such as used cooking oil and residual fats and greases.

Through the Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) pathway, the facility will produce SAF with significantly lower lifecycle emissions compared to conventional jet fuel, while also generating renewable co-products including propane, butane, and naphtha.

Marjan Rintel, CEO KLM, said: “As the world’s first airline, our long-term offtake guarantee directly contributes to the financing and realisation of this facility. And today, this project finally becomes tangible as we celebrate the groundbreaking together with SkyNRG and other guests. I’m proud that KLM, as a founding member of SkyNRG and its largest DSL-01’s fuel customer, is taking an important step in scaling up SAF production in the Netherlands and advancing the sustainability of aviation.”

Maarten van Dijk, CEO SkyNRG, added:“The start of construction of DSL-01 marks a defining moment for sustainable aviation. This project demonstrates that large scale SAF production is moving from ambition to implementation. Together with committed partners like KLM, we are building critical infrastructure that will help accelerate aviation transition towards lower emissions while strengthening Europe’s sustainable fuel industry. The project will also create more than 100 direct jobs, further reinforcing the northern Netherlands as a leading hub for industry innovation and energy transition.”