ECARU Partners for Second-Generation Biofuel

ECARU, Qalaa Holdings and Axens to conduct technical and economic studies for second-generation biofuel (advanced bioethanol) and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production project. ECARU (Egypt Solid Waste Recycling Company), Qalaa Holdings and Axens, within the framework of their strategies to provide practical solutions for cleaner energy, signed a cooperation protocol on 17 July 2023 in the presence of Marc Barety, France's Ambassador to Egypt, to conduct technical and economic studies for a second-generation biofuel (advanced bioethanol) and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production project. The project will be implemented in two phases, the first being advanced bioethanol production and the second sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production. While project work is expected to take approximately seven months, the company aims to export second-generation biofuel production in line with its strategy to maximize the use of various waste types in Egypt, contribute to sustainability and waste recycling, and thereby promote economic growth. Dr. Ahmed Heikal, Chair and Founder of Qalaa Holdings: "Within our commitment to creating high-value-added export-oriented projects, we are proud to initiate this cooperation with Axens for second-generation biofuel production from lignocellulosic biomass with the aim of promoting global environmental sustainability," he said, adding: "Qalaa is significantly increasing its investments in Egypt through the companies it invests in by implementing high-value-added export-oriented projects. The timing for such projects is now very suitable." Dr. Hesham Sherif, Chair and General Manager of ECARU, said: "ECARU is looking forward to beginning financial and technical studies of the project and transitioning to actual production in two phases within three years. The first phase will involve advanced bioethanol production, while the second phase will relate to sustainable aviation fuel production. The production in question is export-oriented to meet the increasing needs of the global market." Jean Sentenac, President and Chief Executive Officer of Axens, said: "We are excited to support Qalaa Holdings and ECARU in their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through Egypt's first advanced bioethanol and SAF project. I am proud that Futurol and Jetanol are the technological cornerstones of this project." Source