INA successfully pilots sustainable aviation fuel production

For the first time in its history, the Rijeka Refinery has successfully produced Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). In an effort to reduce its carbon footprint and comply with European renewable energy regulations, INA has completed a pilot project that focuses on processing biogenic feedstock at the Hydrocracking Unit of the Rijeka Refinery.

Source: INA

Alongside SAF, a notable amount of renewable diesel (HVO – Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) was also generated. The European Union has established binding targets through the Renewable Energy Directive to cut greenhouse gas emissions and enhance the share of renewable energy sources in transportation. By 2030, EU member states must ensure a suitable portion of renewables in the transport sector, emphasizing the importance of advanced biofuels and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to decarbonize the aviation industry. In response to these mandates, INA aims to finalize all preparations and be ready to provide a continuous supply of sustainable aviation fuel to the market by 2029.

Processing biogenic feedstock within existing infrastructure is one of the most efficient ways to decarbonise refinery operations and increase the share of renewables in the transport sector. Thanks to the commitment of our internal team and the collaboration with partners from MOL Group and CLG, we have successfully created the necessary preconditions to meet the future needs of the market and our customers

^{Ivica Jerbić, Director of Development at INA}

The initiative was executed in collaboration with Chevron Lummus Global (CLG), the unit’s licensor, with the goal of testing the co-processing of 5% POME (Palm Oil Mill Effluent – a by-product of palm oil production) alongside fossil feedstocks. This pilot project took place from May 5 to May 13, 2025, during which 1,000 tonnes of biogenic feedstock were processed. The entire procedure received certification from the independent auditor Bureau Veritas d.o.o., adhering to the ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) standard for sustainable biofuels.

Preparing for the pilot project took eight months, given the complexities associated with processing a new type of feedstock and its unique physical and chemical properties. The project encompassed various activities, including procuring specialized filters, modifying laboratory methods, enhancing the capacities of the Hydrocracking and Vacuum Distillation units, and ensuring the controlled handling of the biogenic feedstock under existing operating conditions. Throughout the test run, over 400 samples were collected for comprehensive analysis at INA’s Central Testing Laboratory (CIL), while the biogenic content (C14 analysis) was evaluated by accredited external laboratories, including the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb and Isotoptech Zrt. in Debrecen.