Illinois has secured an $820 million investment to establish a state-of-the-art sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facility, positioning the state as a leader in the growing green energy sector. Supported by Illinois’ Reimagining Energy and Vehicles (REV) program, this groundbreaking project aims to produce up to 120 million gallons of SAF annually, playing a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions in the aviation industry. 

The facility will use advanced alcohol-to-jet conversion technology developed by KBR to produce SAF, a cleaner alternative to conventional jet fuel. Located in Southwest Illinois, the project will take advantage of the region’s existing rail and pipeline infrastructure, ensuring efficient distribution of the fuel to key aviation hubs, including Chicago O’Hare International Airport, one of the busiest in the country. 

Beyond its environmental benefits, the facility will generate significant economic impacts. It is expected to create 157 permanent jobs and around 1,000 construction-related positions, boosting the local economy and driving long-term employment opportunities. Environmentally, the SAF production facility will help reduce 25 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually, directly contributing to the state’s carbon neutral strategy. 

Governor JB Pritzker emphasized the importance of this investment, calling it a major step in Illinois’ energy transformation. The project is also aligned with the state’s 2024 Economic Growth Plan, which focuses on clean energy and sustainable manufacturing as key growth drivers. The state’s commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles is underscored by this strategic investment, as it strives to enhance its role in the global green economy while fostering job creation and environmental stewardship. 

This sustainable aviation fuel facility underscores Illinois’ commitment to advancing ESG goals and carbon neutrality while positioning itself as a key player in the clean energy revolution. 

Sources:  

https://energynews.pro/en/illinois-secures-820-million-investment-for-sustainable-aviation-fuel-facility/ 

https://gov.illinois.gov/news/press-release.30760.html 

https://www.h2-view.com/story/illinois-to-host-avinas-820m-saf-production-facility/2119119.article/ 

https://bioenergyinternational.com/avinas-selects-southwest-illinois-for-us820m-saf-investment/