Forestry Council Weighs $210M SAF Proposal
Read On Wisconsin Reviewing $210M SAF Refinery Plan...
Consideration of proposed Wisconsin state legislation that would approve $210 million in financing for a sustainable aviation fuel refinery in Hayward, Wisconsin, was launched at the meeting of the Wisconsin Council on Forestry on November 18.
The legislation would authorize $150 million in state bonding and $60 million in Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation tax credits. It was introduced by State Senator Mary Felzkowski.
Among markets for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the European Union, which has mandated its use for commercial flights within its borders, that would unfold slowly over the next 25 years (from 1.2% in 2030 to 35% in 2050). Similar requirements are not in place elsewhere, but airlines are being pushed to consider the use of SAF, including in the U.S.
Members of the Council on Forestry encouraged analysis and consideration of the following:
Supply and demand for the necessary biomass feedstock.
Likely return on investment (ROI) for the required state investment.
Interpretation and stability of the proposed EU regulations on the fuel.
The likelihood of adoption of SAF in the U.S.
How required certification by the E.U. fit with existing SFI and FSC forest certification standards.
How prices for existing users of forest biomass would be affected.
Positive impacts of forest health due to the removal of wood impacted by diseases.
The group expects to continue consideration at its January meeting.