Honeywell Technologies Selected for Biofuel Production Facility in Brazil
Mumbai: Honeywell has announced that its process technology, automation systems, pumps, and compressors will be deployed at Acelen Renewables’ upcoming biofuel production facility in Bahia, Brazil.
The greenfield project is expected to produce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel using macaúba oil, a feedstock native to Brazil.
According to Honeywell, the project will utilize its modular Ecofining™ process technology along with integrated control and safety systems designed to support biofuel production and plant operations.
Focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production
The announcement comes amid growing global interest in sustainable aviation fuels as the aviation industry seeks to reduce carbon emissions.
Honeywell stated that demand for SAF is projected to reach nearly 500,000 barrels per day over the next decade, prompting refiners and energy companies to expand production capacity.
The company’s modular technology approach is intended to reduce construction timelines and improve project execution efficiency compared with conventional refinery development methods.
Macaúba Oil to be Used as Feedstock
The Bahia facility will use macaúba oil, a feedstock sourced from Brazil, for the production of renewable fuels.
According to Acelen Renewables, the project is expected to support the production of lower-emission fuels while contributing to the country’s renewable energy and sustainability initiatives.
Marcelo Cordaro, Chief Operating Officer of Acelen Renewables, said the project is designed to support economic, social, and environmental sustainability objectives while helping meet growing global demand for renewable fuels.
Ecofining Technology for Renewable Fuels
Honeywell’s UOP Ecofining process technology, developed in collaboration with Eni SpA, is designed to convert waste fats, oils, and greases into renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel.
According to the company, SAF produced using the process can contribute to greenhouse gas emission reductions when blended with conventional jet fuel.
Honeywell stated that advances in process technologies and the use of alternative feedstocks are helping lower production costs associated with renewable fuels.
Integrated Automation and Digital Operations
The project will also incorporate Honeywell’s integrated control and safety systems through its Experion® PKS platform.
The company said the automation systems are intended to support plant operations, reduce project risks, improve operational efficiency, and provide data-driven insights for production management.
Honeywell noted that it has delivered more than 1,500 modular process units worldwide across multiple industrial applications.
The Bahia facility is expected to become one of the world’s largest renewable fuel production sites and forms part of broader efforts to increase sustainable fuel production capacity globally.
