Rely and Verso Energy announced that Rely will deliver the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) for the DEZiR eSAF project in Petit-Couronne, Normandie, France. This decision follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year. It also marks a major milestone in the project’s technical development, giving the clarity needed to de-risk the project and move confidently toward EPC execution.
As the first industrial-scale eSAF project in France to reach the FEED stage—and one of the most advanced in Europe—DEZiR highlights the growing importance of innovative technologies that support aviation decarbonization.
Announced During Choose France Event
The announcement was made during the Choose France event, which showcases the country’s commitment to innovation and investment. The DEZiR project stands out as a major investment in France’s energy transition. It also reinforces the nation’s role in expanding the e-Fuels sector and strengthening local expertise.
Supported by European Innovation Fund and France 2030
The 2024 European Innovation Fund and the France 2030 investment program have selected DEZiR to advance industrial decarbonization. The project builds a standardized, replicable Methanol-to-Jet production platform designed to lower the levelized cost of sustainable aviation fuel through innovation, standardization, and scalability.
Advancing Global e-Fuels Production
As per the press release, the DEZiR plant is part of a wider initiative by Verso Energy to develop seven e-Fuels production facilities worldwide in partnership with Rely. Together, these sites are expected to produce over 500,000 tons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) every year, offering up to 90% lower lifecycle emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.
Leadership Perspectives
Antoine Huard, CEO of Verso Energy, said, “We are on track to meet the 2030 targets for eSAF in aviation. Starting the FEED of the DEZiR project is a critical step and a major investment. By partnering with Rely, we are using their experience in large-scale industrial projects and their focus on standardization and innovation.”
Damien Eyriès, CEO of Rely, added, “The FEED award reflects the strong partnership between Rely and Verso Energy. It highlights our expertise in Power-to-X integration and our ability to deliver innovative, scalable, and competitive solutions. We are proud to support a project that accelerates aviation decarbonization and strengthens France’s leadership in the global e-Fuels market.”
