LanzaTech UK has been granted permission to setup a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facility on a former-industrial site at Crown Wharf.
The proposed alcohol-to-jet facility in Port Talbot will produce about 100 million litres of SAF per annum – about 10% of the sustainable aviation fuel that the UK plans to use by 2030.
The plans put forth by carbon recycling company LanzaTech aim to convert waste carbon into sustainable raw materials for aviation fuel and received unanimous approval from Neath Port Talbot Council’s Planning Committee.
The facility is expected to yield significant economic benefits for the region and projected to create more than 150 full-time jobs, including 85 skilled positions onsite.
Jim Woodger, Managing Director of LanzaTech UK Ltd., expressed delight at the approval, emphasising the importance of Project Dragon in transitioning Port Talbot towards clean, green industries while simultaneously providing employment opportunities and broader benefits to the local community. He said:
“We are delighted that Neath Port Talbot Council has approved our planning application. This milestone marks an important step for Project Dragon and demonstrates the potential for Port Talbot to transition to clean green industries that build on its heritage whilst providing jobs and wider benefits for the local community.”
LanzaTech highlighted that the decision followed extensive consultation with various stakeholders, including the public. Moreover, the company intends to further support the Port Talbot community by establishing apprenticeships and continuing to aid local charities and educational institutions, such as the recently established JES Skills Academy.
Construction of the facility is slated to begin in winter 2024, with production scheduled to commence in 2026. However, the timeline is contingent upon securing necessary legislation, investments, and offtake agreements required for a final investment decision.
