Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK) Limited Approved for Construction of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (“SAF”) Refinery at Teesworks, UK
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Insights
The approval of Willis Sustainable Fuels' (UK) Limited's Carbonshift PtL SAF refinery project by the Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council represents a significant milestone in the company's strategic expansion into sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). The project's alignment with the UK government's vision for commercial-scale SAF plants and the international aviation community's net-zero emissions goal by 2050 indicates a proactive approach to a burgeoning market. The anticipated annual production capacity of fourteen kilotons of PtL SAF could position Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC) as a key player in the SAF supply chain, potentially increasing the company's long-term revenue streams and diversifying its business model beyond aircraft engine leasing.
From a market perspective, this development is timely as the aviation industry is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. The £4.721M grant from the UK Department for Transport underscores the project's viability and the government's support for such initiatives. Investors should note that the successful execution of this project could enhance WLFC's market position and possibly have a positive impact on its stock valuation, given the increasing investor interest in environmentally responsible companies.
The environmental implications of the Carbonshift PtL SAF refinery project are significant, particularly in the context of the UK's broader environmental goals. SAF is seen as a critical component in the aviation industry's transition to more sustainable practices and this project directly supports the UK's target of having at least five commercial-scale SAF plants by 2025. The production of SAF through the PtL process represents a technological advancement with the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing an alternative to conventional jet fuel.
For stakeholders, including policymakers and environmental groups, the project's progress is a positive signal of the industry's commitment to environmental sustainability. The PtL technology, which enables the conversion of power to liquid fuels, could serve as a blueprint for future projects and contribute to the UK's reputation as a leader in environmental innovation. The success of this project could also catalyze further investment in renewable energy and carbon reduction technologies, with potential spillover benefits for other sectors.
Willis Lease Finance Corporation's venture into the SAF market through its subsidiary's PtL refinery project could have financial implications that merit close monitoring by investors. The initial investment and subsequent grant funding reflect confidence in the project's economic prospects. However, investors should consider the capital expenditure required, the timeline to operational status and the break-even point for the project. Additionally, the refinery's capacity to produce five million gallons of SAF annually should be contextualized within the broader SAF market demand and pricing dynamics.
It is important to analyze the potential return on investment, considering the nascent stage of the SAF market and regulatory incentives. The company's diversification into SAF production could mitigate risks associated with its core engine leasing business and provide a hedge against volatile fuel prices. However, investors should also be mindful of the execution risks and the competitive landscape, as other players may also enter the SAF market, potentially affecting WLFC's market share and profitability.
Borough Council Approved Willis’ Reserved Matters Planning Application for its Carbonshift PtL SAF Refinery Project
COCONUT CREEK, Fla., March 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK) Limited, the wholly-owned subsidiary of Willis Lease Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: WLFC) (“WLFC”), a leading lessor of commercial aircraft engines and global provider of aviation services, announced today that the Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has approved the plans for its Carbonshift PtL SAF refinery project at Teesworks in Tees Valley, England.
The approval is a critical step in the development of the refinery project, which is currently estimated to have annual production capacity of fourteen kilotons (approximately five million gallons) of power-to-liquid (“PtL”) SAF when it enters into operations.
Recently, the project was awarded a
"We're thrilled to have the Reserved Matters Planning Application approved, marking a pivotal step in our project and our commitment to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions within the UK and global aviation sector," expressed Austin Willis, CEO of WLFC. "We're poised to dive into action, collaborating closely with our partners at Teesworks to bolster the UK’s SAF pipeline."
“It is exciting to set forth on this groundbreaking project. We are grateful for our partners at Teesworks and the DfT for supporting the advanced fuels sector,” said Stephanie Sutherland, WLFC’s Director of Corporate Development.
Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK) Limited's Carbonshift PtL process is targeted to produce SAF that can be seamlessly blended with conventional jet fuel for immediate use with existing commercial aircraft engines.
Aligned with the UK government's stated vision, this SAF project would be integral in actualizing the UK’s target of having a minimum of five commercial-scale SAF plants under construction by 2025. Furthermore, it directly bolsters the international aviation community's ambitious pursuit of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
For more information, please visit www.willissustainablefuels.com.
Willis Lease Finance Corporation
Willis Lease Finance Corporation (“WLFC”) leases large and regional spare commercial aircraft engines, auxiliary power units and aircraft to airlines, aircraft engine manufacturers and maintenance, repair, and overhaul providers worldwide. These leasing activities are integrated with engine and aircraft trading, engine lease pools and asset management services through Willis Asset Management Limited, as well as various end-of-life solutions for engines and aviation materials provided through Willis Aeronautical Services, Inc. Additionally, through Willis Engine Repair Center®, Jet Centre by Willis, and Willis Aviation Services Limited, the company’s service offerings include Part 145 engine maintenance, aircraft line and base maintenance, aircraft disassembly, parking and storage, airport FBO and ground and cargo handling services.
Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Do not unduly rely on forward-looking statements, which give only expectations about the future and are not guarantees. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update them. Our actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: the effects on the airline industry and the global economy of events such as war, terrorist activity and the COVID-19 pandemic; changes in oil prices, rising inflation and other disruptions to world markets; trends in the airline industry and our ability to capitalize on those trends, including growth rates of markets and other economic factors; risks associated with owning and leasing jet engines and aircraft; our ability to successfully negotiate equipment purchases, sales and leases, to collect outstanding amounts due and to control costs and expenses; changes in interest rates and availability of capital, both to us and our customers; our ability to continue to meet changing customer demands; regulatory changes affecting airline operations, aircraft maintenance, accounting standards and taxes; the market value of engines and other assets in our portfolio; and risks detailed in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and other continuing reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
CONTACT: Lynn Mailliard Kohler
Manager Corporate Communications
lkohler@willislease.com
415.328.4798
FAQ
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