Equilibrion, a UK-based project development company, has partnered with Rolls-Royce SMR to explore the potential of using nuclear energy for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). This collaboration involves conducting a comprehensive technical and economic assessment to understand how Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) can power the production of e-SAF, particularly through the proprietary Eq.flight system.
The initiative aims to produce over 160 million liters of SAF annually for the UK market, addressing the country's commitment to low-carbon aviation fuels by 2040. The project is supported by a Department for Transport grant, with a demonstration scheduled for 2030, to validate the system's viability and scalability.
This approach leverages the reliable, low-carbon energy generated from SMRs to meet the increasing demand for environmentally sustainable aviation fuels, which currently comprise less than 1% of global demand. With UK targets requiring 22% of aviation fuel to be SAF by 2040, nuclear technology presents a promising solution to meet these ambitious goals, create thousands of skilled jobs, and strengthen national energy security.
Representatives from both organizations emphasize that nuclear-enabled SAF production can deliver the scale, reliability, and low-emission profile necessary for decarbonizing aviation. This collaboration also aligns with broader net-zero and energy security objectives, aiming to expand domestic fuel production and accelerate the adoption of sustainable fuels in aviation.
