Keppel and Aster Explore Asia’s First Commercial-Scale ETJ SAF Plant in Singapore

Keppel Ltd. has announced a strategic partnership with Aster to jointly assess the development of one of Asia’s first commercial-scale ethanol-to-jet (ETJ) sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facilities on Jurong Island, Singapore. The proposed project represents a significant step in advancing low-carbon aviation fuels in the region.

The planned facility is expected to have an annual production capacity of up to 100,000 metric tons of SAF, subject to final investment decision (FID) and regulatory approvals. Under the agreement, Keppel and Aster will conduct front-end engineering design (FEED) studies to evaluate the project’s technical configuration, capital expenditure requirements, and potential financing and offtake structures needed to reach FID. The plant will utilize best-in-class ETJ technology to convert low-carbon ethanol into sustainable aviation fuel.

A prior feasibility study has already been completed, confirming the technical and commercial viability of the project. Designed as a purpose-built ETJ SAF facility, the plant is expected to support Singapore’s national SAF targets while meeting the growing decarbonization needs of regional airlines. The ETJ pathway allows flexibility in sourcing bioethanol feedstocks and adapting to future changes in regional ethanol markets.

Located on Jurong Island, the project can leverage Singapore’s established industrial infrastructure and logistics ecosystem. Through coordination with government agencies, the initiative aligns with Singapore’s ambition to become a leading SAF hub in Asia and to accelerate aviation sector decarbonization.