Portugal-based energy company Galp and Japan-based Mitsui & Co have announced plans to form a joint venture to produce renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at Galp’s refinery in Sines, Portugal.
The biorefinery unit would have the capacity to produce 270,000 tonnes/year of renewable diesel and SAF from waste residue feedstocks, such as used cooking oil (UCO) and animal fats, according to a Biodiesel Magazine report on 25 September.
Mitsui said the project would involve the construction of facilities within the Sines Refinery – operated by Lisbon-based Galp since 1978 – which would have the capability of being switched between renewable diesel and SAF production modes.
Once established – following clearance from necessary authorities – the planned joint venture would be 75% owned by Galp with the remaining 25% held by Mitsui, the latter said on 25 September.
In addition to its investment in the production business, Mitsui said it would take responsibility for the overall biofuels value chain, including the procurement of feedstocks, primarily from Asia, and product sales, while Galp would operate the biorefinery.
According to its website, Galp is active in 10 countries and exports its products to more than 50 nations.
Initial renewable diesel production was expected to begin near the end of 2025, with commercial operations due to begin in 2026, Mitsui said.
