Azure 2023, a developer in the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry, today announces its planned development of an SAF production facility in Cherryvale, Kansas.
Since June 2023, Azure has been progressing a FEED study, which is on track for completion in 2024. Azure is targeting a final investment decision (FID) by early 2025; if approved, the company is targeting to reach first production in 2027.
The facility would use commercially proven technology, allowing for efficiency in speed to market and future expansion. Once fully operational, the facility will produce approximately 135 million gallons per year of renewable fuels, primarily SAF. The use of Azure's SAF will reduce global aviation emissions by approximately 1 million tons per year, equivalent to removing emissions from roughly 200,000 cars annually.
There will be significant job creation throughout the construction and during operations of the facility. Approximately 1,500 workers will be required through construction, and operations will require approximately 150 full-time positions. Azure is dedicated to supporting the local economy and prioritizing local sourcing, where feasible.
Azure has also received significant support from the local government. On December 18, the Montgomery County Commission approved various tax incentives to help support the project. These incentives include a 10-year property tax exemption and an exemption on sales tax on construction materials and labor.
SAF is an essential component in reducing emissions in global aviation, providing a renewable alternative that can reduce emissions by greater than 50% relative to traditional fossil-based jet fuel. SAF is a certified drop-in replacement fuel for commercial airlines and is in use today, globally.
Azure's goal of producing SAF with the lowest emissions is further supported through an executed letter of intent with CapturePoint Solutions to explore the opportunity to tie-in to its existing and operating carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration network and infrastructure.
