SK Energy exports SAF to Europe for the first time

SK Energy has exported sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to Europe - marking a first for a Korean refiner.
With the European Union (EU) initiating mandatory SAF usage this month, SK Energy has swiftly entered the market, establishing itself as a leading producer with its robust large-scale production system.
On January 5, SK Energy announced the export of SAF, produced through Co-Processing methods that refine bio-based materials such as used cooking oil and animal fats.
Since January, EU countries have mandated that at least 2% of aviation fuel must consist of SAF. Currently, Europe is the only global market with such a requirement.
SK Energy began commercial production of SAF in September last year, utilising Co-Processing technology.
A SK Energy spokesperson said: “Our extensive production system, bolstered by the R&D expertise of SK Innovation Institute of Environmental Science and Technology, and the engineering proficiency at SK Innovation’s Ulsan Complex, was pivotal in achieving this export milestone.”
Looking ahead, SK Energy plans to expand its domestic supply and continue its growth in the global SAF market.
Lee Chun-kil, CSO of SK Energy, head of SK Innovation Ulsan Complex, stated: “We will closely monitor domestic and international SAF policy changes and market demands to expand SAF production and exports.”