Central challenges

High costs, limited availability and regulatory hurdles

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) can already be blended today and used in existing engines (for short, medium and long-haul flights) and refueling infrastructures. engines (for short, medium and long-haul flights) and refueling infrastructures. But highhigh investment costs, a significant price gap to fossil fuels and the limited availability of sustainable raw materials are currently slowing down the market entry of sustainable SAFs. In regulatory terms, the EU's ReFuelEU Aviation legislation with binding ramp-up quotas puts European airlines at a competitive disadvantage compared to non-EU companies. In addition, strict quality requirements, complex infrastructure requirements and uncertainties regarding specifications and purchase agreements represent significant hurdles for investments and market ramp-up.

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How the innovation focus works

Systematic analysis and solutions for the use of sustainable aviation fuels in air transport

The focus area investigates how SAF can be systematically integrated into aviation. The focus is on the analysis and evaluation of various fuels - including power-to-liquid (PtL) fuels and advanced biofuels. In addition, the infrastructure needs and logistical requirements for fuel supply at airports will be examined. Another focus is on the evaluation of regulatory framework conditions and their influence on the introduction of sustainable fuels. In addition, the team is developing solutions to accelerate the SAF market ramp-up and creating a business case for the market launch. The evaluation of market and financing models as well as the assessment of certification systems and guidelines are also part of the work.

The overarching aim is to provide a practical basis for the introduction of renewable fuels in aviation, to identify future-proof technologies and business models and to create a sound basis for decision-making on investment, regulation and technological development.

The innovation focus is supervised by the German Aerospace Center (DLR), the Competence Center for Climate and Noise Protection in Aviation (CENA) and the airline Condor

 

NOW Factsheet on the EU regulation reFuelEU Aviation

European legislation

In October 2023, the European Union (EU) adopted the Regulation to ensure a level playing field for sustainable aviation, also known as ReFuelEU Aviation. The regulation aims to promote sustainable commercial aviation in the EU by setting binding blending quotas for SAFs. Read the factsheet from NOW GmbH, which coordinates funding programs for the German government in the area of climate-friendly mobility and energy, here.