Topsoe licenses kerosene hydrotreating technology to BPCL for Mumbai SAF co-processing

Topsoe has signed a licensing agreement with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) to supply its Kerosene Hydrotreating Technology for co-processing at BPCL's Mumbai Refinery. BPCL will revamp its existing 4,000 metric tons per day Kerosene Hydrotreater Unit to co-process 5% used cooking oil renewable feedstock with conventional feedstock, producing sustainable aviation fuel without a new dedicated unit. The final investment decision has been taken, with commissioning expected by the end of 2026, and the SAF will supply airlines refueling international flights from Indian airports.

Key facts

Market context

Sustainable aviation fuel is a drop-in replacement for fossil jet fuel, made by hydrotreating renewable feedstocks such as used cooking oil and fats into paraffinic hydrocarbons that meet jet fuel specifications. Demand is driven mainly by airlines and aviation fuel buyers facing blending mandates and emissions-reduction targets, with international flights a key segment because of offsetting schemes. Kerosene hydrotreating is a mature refinery process, so co-processing renewable feed in an existing unit lets a refiner add SAF output with limited capital, while avoiding the cost and schedule of a new dedicated plant. For buyers, this type of route can add supply without a large new build, though volumes are limited by the renewable feedstock share and by the availability of waste oils and fats. Competing SAF producers and feedstock collectors may see more pressure as refiners adapt existing assets.

Source: official release on topsoe.com. Summary and context written by Market Krystal.