PARIS, FRANCE – Technip Energies, Airbus, Safran and Tereos have entered into an agreement to establish Rebound, a joint venture that will develop a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production project at the Port of Dunkirk in northern France. The proposed facility is expected to produce approximately 160,000 tonnes of SAF annually using the Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ) production pathway.

Project targets large-scale SAF production

The project is intended to become one of the largest Alcohol-to-Jet SAF facilities in Europe and forms part of wider efforts to increase SAF availability while supporting European energy security. The partners have committed funding for the project’s development phase, which will include engineering studies and preparatory activities ahead of a potential Final Investment Decision (FID).

SAF is regarded as a key component in reducing aviation-related carbon emissions. Under the European Union’s RefuelEU Aviation regulation, SAF blending requirements are scheduled to increase progressively, reaching 6% by 2030 and 70% by 2050. The partners noted that these targets are expected to drive significant growth in SAF demand over the coming decades.

Alcohol-to-Jet pathway selected

The facility will utilise advanced ethanol derived from agricultural and forestry residues. Through the Alcohol-to-Jet process, this ethanol is converted into aviation fuel that can be blended with conventional jet fuel and used in existing aircraft and engine fleets.

Technip Energies will serve as lead developer and engineering services provider for the project. Airbus and Safran will participate as industrial partners, support offtake development activities and may also become SAF customers. Tereos intends to provide advanced ethanol feedstock through its established ethanol production capabilities.

Dunkirk site already secured

A significant milestone has already been achieved through the allocation of an industrial site at the Port of Dunkirk. According to the partners, the location offers logistical advantages for both feedstock supply and product distribution, while also supporting permitting activities required for project development.

The development programme will now proceed through several stages, including technology selection, permitting processes, pre-FEED and FEED studies, finalisation of feedstock and offtake agreements, and financing arrangements for construction.

Joint venture expected to be completed this year

The formation of Rebound remains subject to customary approvals and closing conditions. The partners expect the joint venture to be formally established during the second half of 2026.