Honeywell announced on April 14 that Petrobras has chosen Honeywell UOP’s Ethanol-to-Jet process technology for a new project at the REPLAN refinery in São Paulo, Brazil. If approved, the facility will be able to produce up to 10,000 barrels per day of sustainable aviation fuel, marking what Honeywell described as the first large-scale ethanol-to-jet initiative in Latin America.
The announcement is significant because it highlights a move toward more sustainable energy sources and efforts to reduce carbon emissions within the aviation industry. The use of ethanol as a renewable feedstock offers an economically viable way to scale up production of sustainable fuels.
Ken West, president and CEO of Honeywell Process Technology, said: “Honeywell has a long history of providing innovative process technologies and technical expertise to reduce the cost to produce renewable fuels and help customers leverage new feedstock options. With Honeywell’s ethanol-to-jet process technology, Petrobras is positioned to deliver low-carbon energy solutions leveraging abundant agricultural byproducts to create fuel, helping meet global demand.”
As demand for sustainable aviation fuel continues to grow worldwide, refiners are seeking reliable technology solutions that can quickly boost production. By using ethanol from Brazil—which is recognized for its efficient biofuel industry—the planned REPLAN facility aims to help both domestic and international airlines cut lifecycle emissions while expanding access to renewable jet fuel. This project could reinforce Brazil’s role as a leader in SAF production.
José Fernandes, president of Honeywell Latin America, said: “Brazil has the scale, feedstock and technology partners needed to become a global powerhouse in sustainable aviation fuel. This project is a major milestone for the region and demonstrates how strategic collaboration can accelerate Brazil’s role in the energy transition.”
Petrobras and Honeywell have worked together on refining technology and automation systems before. Their recent collaborations include licensing Honeywell UOP HEFA process technology at another Petrobras refinery for producing SAF and renewable diesel from soybean oil and beef tallow.
