How this sustainable jet fuel company is charting a new route in the Trump era

LanzaJet's Freedom Pines Fuels refinery in Georgia, designed to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from ethanol, faces challenges amidst evolving US energy policy. The refinery aims to create a cleaner alternative to traditional jet fuel by using carbon already in the environment. Originally planned to use Brazilian sugarcane ethanol, the refinery must now use U.S. corn ethanol due to legislative changes impacting subsidy eligibility. SAF, made from sources like sugarcane and corn, seeks to offset carbon emissions through a closed-loop system. Despite delays and equipment issues, the plant is nearing completion and is intended to showcase the viability of SAF production at scale. LanzaJet is backed by airlines and companies seeking to reduce carbon emissions, driven by international commitments and regulations. Tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act incentivize SAF production, but recent legal changes complicate LanzaJet's initial plans. Concerns arise regarding the carbon footprint of U.S. corn ethanol and the competition with established technologies like HEFA. LanzaJet intends to eventually transition to using ethanol from agricultural waste, contingent on further approvals and technological advancements.