Acelen plans to invest over R$12 billion over the next 10 years in the production of renewable fuels. The agreement between Acelen and the Bahia Government was signed in Abu Dhabi, in April this year, and its main focus is the production of renewable diesel and SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), using vegetable oils and animal fat through hydroprocessing. Production is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2026.
Annual production will be 1 billion liters, generating R$85 billion in the economy and up to 90,000 direct and indirect jobs. A reduction of up to 80% in CO2 emissions is expected when replacing fossil fuel, making the company one of the major producers of renewable fuels in the world.
The project will be split into two phases, using soybean oil initially and later exploring the energy potential of macauba oil and palm oil, with planting expected to begin in 2024. 200,000 hectares will be allocated, prioritizing highly degraded land for planting.
In order to maintain synergy with the Mataripe Refinery, a sustainable hydrogen generation unit will be built for fuel processing. Work is expected to begin in September 2024, with a processing capacity of 20,000 barrels per day, equivalent to 1 billion liters per year. Initial production will be aimed at the external market, where approvals for the marketing and consumption of those products already exist.
Acelen’s initiative brings significant economic, environmental, and social benefits. In addition to the complete decarbonization of the chain, the company will boost the local economy, generating thousands of jobs and boosting the growth of agribusiness in Brazil.