In July 2023, sustainable aviation fuel startup Twelve secured $645 million in funding to complete construction of their facility in Moses Lake, Washington. The plant, known as AirPlant One, is expected to be the first commercial-scale sustainable aviation fuel facility in the state and is set to begin operations next year. With the aviation industry looking to decarbonize and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, many industry leaders see sustainable aviation fuel as a quick, near-term solution to reduce carbon emissions. Twelve’s E-Jet fuel will be produced using locally sourced liquid ethanol and hydropower from the state’s dams.
Twelve’s efforts in Washington are part of a larger movement towards sustainable aviation fuel production in the state. SkyNRG, another company working in the industry, is also looking to establish a facility in Eastern Washington with support from local agencies. In addition, Snohomish County and Washington State University have plans for a Sustainable Aviation Fuel Research & Development Center to further support the adoption of this cleaner fuel alternative. Despite these initiatives, the production of sustainable aviation fuel currently represents less than 1% of the total aviation fuel used.
The use of sustainable aviation fuel is seen as a critical step towards reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry, especially for long-distance flights where battery and hydrogen alternatives fall short. By utilizing locally sourced ethanol and hydropower, Twelve is positioning itself as a leader in the sustainable aviation fuel sector. The company has already secured support from major players in the industry such as Alaska Airlines and Microsoft, signaling growing interest and investment in sustainable aviation fuel production.
Governor Jay Inslee has been a vocal supporter of sustainable aviation fuel initiatives in Washington, attending Twelve’s groundbreaking event in Moses Lake. With the state’s commitment to renewable energy sources and environmental sustainability, the development of AirPlant One and other sustainable aviation fuel facilities aligns with Washington’s goals to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. The collaboration between the private sector, government agencies, and research institutions demonstrates a collective effort to transition towards cleaner energy solutions for the aviation industry.
As the aviation sector continues to seek ways to reduce its environmental impact, sustainable aviation fuel is seen as a key solution to lower greenhouse gas emissions. With the support of major stakeholders and significant investments, companies like Twelve are at the forefront of this effort in Washington state. By utilizing locally sourced resources and renewable energy, these sustainable aviation fuel facilities are not only reducing carbon emissions but also promoting economic growth and innovation in the region. The development of AirPlant One and other similar projects mark an important step towards a more sustainable future for aviation in Washington and beyond.
