Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) inaugurated a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) demonstration plant at its Visakh Refinery, marking an important milestone in India’s clean aviation journey. The facility will produce SAF through the co-processing of used cooking oil (UCO) in the refinery’s Full Conversion Hydrocracker Unit, effectively leveraging existing infrastructure and minimising additional capital intensity.
Advancing India’s SAF Blending Targets
With this development, India has taken a decisive step towards achieving its SAF blending targets of one percent by 2027, two percent by 2028, and five percent by 2030. The initiative reflects steady progress in India’s transition to cleaner and more sustainable aviation fuels.
Roadmap for Commercial-Scale SAF Production
The Visakh refinery will begin producing approximately ten thousand metric tons (TMT) of SAF per annum from January 2027, following CORSIA certification. The production will contribute directly to India’s efforts to decarbonise aviation. It will also promote a circular, waste-to-wealth economy by using used cooking oil as a feedstock.
Alignment with Global Climate Commitments
The SAF initiative aligns with the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). CORSIA was adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Under CORSIA, airlines must offset emissions exceeding a defined baseline. SAF is a critical tool for long-term emissions reduction in international aviation.
Strengthening Energy Self-Reliance and Net-Zero Goals
As reported by chinimandi.com, the commissioning of the SAF demonstration plant reinforces India’s energy self-reliance. It also supports the country’s broader Net-Zero commitments. By integrating SAF into refinery operations, HPCL is demonstrating how traditional energy infrastructure can adapt to low-carbon pathways.
