A new wave of innovation is sweeping across the aviation industry as a revolutionary approach to sustainable fuel receives substantial backing.
Switzerland’s Metafuels has been granted $5 million by the Federal Office of Energy to advance its groundbreaking sustainable aviation fuel technology, marking a significant stride towards a more sustainable future in air travel.
This significant financial boost will facilitate the establishment and operational phase of a pioneering pilot facility. Metafuels is collaborating with the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) to build this plant, leveraging its sustainable aviation fuel technology named aerobrew. The unique facility, to be housed in a three-storey research hall on PSI’s campus, will trial the conversion of methanol into e-SAF, a first for Switzerland.
Current alternatives like electrification and hydrogen are still not ready for large-scale use, especially for long-haul flights. Sustainable aviation fuel, however, presents a more immediate solution as a direct replacement for conventional kerosene.
Unlike its competitors, aerobrew technology is designed to be highly efficient, boasting up to a 90% reduction in lifecycle emissions, all while maintaining low costs and not compromising food and feed supply chains.
Marco Ranocchiari from PSI emphasises the collaboration’s value, leveraging advanced research and engineering expertise to accelerate aviation industry’s decarbonisation.
Metafuels anticipates its aerobrew technology to set a benchmark in the industry, paving the way for broader adoption of sustainable practices across global air travel.
The company’s strategic partnerships and government support bolster its capacity to drive change in global air travel towards sustainability.
The aerobrew technology exemplifies innovation in aviation, offering a feasible and economical alternative to traditional fuels, driving change in the sector and beyond.
The $5 million funding represents a pivotal moment in the pursuit of sustainable air travel, positioning Metafuels as a leader in transforming aviation with eco-friendly solutions.
