Aviation remains one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonize due to its reliance on high-energy-density fuels. While electrification and hydrogen-powered aircraft are long-term possibilities, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) offers an immediate and scalable solution that can be used in existing aircraft engines and airport infrastructure. However, SAF production is still limited, and the industry needs more, and increasingly sustainable, solutions to further decarbonise the aviation.  

Fjord PtX addresses this challenge by producing eSAF through a locally integrated system that couples renewable energy, carbon capture and district heating. Located in Aalborg, the project builds on strong municipal partnerships to create a circular and integrated energy system. The CO₂ will be sourced from Nordværk’s waste-to-energy operations, turning local emissions into a valuable feedstock. 

Aalborg Forsyning, Aalborg Municipality’s utility company, will provide both land and technical water, in turn receiving surplus heat from the plant, feeding directly into the district heating network. This level of sector coupling, linking waste, energy, heating and transport, is essential to making SAF production both sustainable and scalable. 

By 2030, Fjord PtX will produce up to 90,000 tonnes of eSAF annually, enough to cover either approx. 15% of the projected European demand for eSAF or unlock Danish ambitions of fully renewable domestic aviation. The production will utilize up to 330,000 tonnes of CO2 annually and is expected to reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 90%, compared to fossil jet fuel. The project will support European and Danish climate ambitions, while also creating local jobs.  

The final funding decision for the Fjord PtX project is not made yet, but it stands to showcase how municipal partnerships and sector coupling can unlock scalable climate solutions for aviation globally