
SK Energy announced Sunday that it has exported sustainable aviation fuel to Europe, becoming the first South Korean oil refiner to do so as part of its transition to low-carbon aviation.
The SAF, made from bio-based feedstocks such as used cooking oil and animal fats, was produced using a coprocessing method and shipped to Europe, where airlines are now required to blend at least 2 percent SAF into aviation fuel under new regulations. Europe is currently the only region enforcing such a mandate, giving SK Energy an early foothold in the market, the company explained.
“This milestone highlights our advanced R&D capabilities and engineering expertise at SK Innovation’s Ulsan Complex,” an SK Energy official said.
SK Energy began commercial SAF production in September last year at its Ulsan facility, which integrates bio-materials into existing petroleum refining processes. With an annual production capacity of 100,000 tons, SK Energy expects its biofuel operations to enhance its competitiveness in the global aviation market.
The export also marks the completion of SK Innovation’s global SAF value chain, spanning raw material procurement to production and sales. To ensure steady supplies, the parent company has invested in bio-based feedstock suppliers, SK Energy added.
According to the International Air Transport Association, the aviation industry must reduce carbon emissions by 50% from 2005 levels by 2050, with SAF expected to play a key role. In line with this, the European Union plans to increase SAF blending requirements to 6 percent by 2030 and 70 percent by 2050.
“SK Energy will closely monitor changes in global policies and market trends to further enhance production and export capabilities,” Lee Chun-gil, head of SK Energy’s Ulsan Complex, said.