Honeywell to Power Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Renewable Diesel Production

Honeywell will provide modular processing technology and automation systems for Acelen Renewables’ biofuels facility in Brazil, supporting large-scale production of sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel

Honeywell has been selected to provide modular processing technology, specialised equipment and integrated automation systems for Acelen Renewables’ new biofuels complex in Bahia, Brazil.

The greenfield project is expected to become one of the world’s largest renewable fuels facilities, producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel using macaúba oil, a sustainable feedstock native to Brazil.

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The project will utilise Honeywell’s Ecofining process technology, along with specialised pumps, compressors and integrated control and safety systems designed to accelerate project delivery and optimise production efficiency.

With global demand for SAF expected to grow significantly over the coming decade, refiners are increasingly looking for technologies that can reduce construction timelines and lower production costs. Honeywell said its modular delivery model can help accelerate deployment compared with conventional refinery construction approaches.

Marcelo Cordaro, Chief Operating Officer of Acelen Renewables, said the Bahia facility will contribute to Brazil’s ambition to become a leading producer of renewable fuels while supporting economic, social and environmental sustainability goals.

The Honeywell UOP Ecofining process, developed in collaboration with Eni, converts feedstocks such as fats, oils and greases into renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. According to Honeywell, the resulting SAF can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% when blended with conventional jet fuel.

Ken West, President and CEO of Honeywell Process Technology, said technological innovation remains critical to improving the economics of renewable fuel production.

Honeywell has delivered more than 1,500 modular process units globally across multiple industrial sectors. Its integrated control and safety systems are built on the Experion® PKS platform and incorporate operational expertise from Honeywell UOP technologies.

The company said the combination of process technology, automation and digital capabilities will help reduce project risks, improve operational performance and provide data-driven insights to optimise biofuel production.