YPF launches Santa Fe Bio to produce aviation fuels

The board of YPF S.A. has approved the creation of Santa Fe Bio, a company dedicated to the production and commercialization of next-generation biofuels.

The main focus will be the production of SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), the sustainable fuel for aviation recognized as the most scalable alternative for air transport. Additionally, it will also produce HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), with properties similar to diesel.

Investment and project development

The estimated investment is USD 400 million, mostly financed by the project itself. Production will be installed at the San Lorenzo refinery, where a raw material pretreatment plant and a state-of-the-art biorefinery will be built.

The project includes two phases and will seek to access the benefits of the Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI).

The biofuels will be manufactured from vegetable oils, animal fats, and processed waste.

Strategic alliance with Essential Energy

Santa Fe Bio will be equally owned by YPF S.A. and Essential Energy, a company specialized in first- and second-generation biofuels, with national and international presence.

Both companies began working on feasibility in December 2023, after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). They are currently advancing in the final contractual terms.

SAF: the key to the future of air transport

SAF is the only alternative recognized by international organizations to reduce aviation emissions in the medium term. Strong demand growth is expected, driven by Europe and the United States, which require ISCC-certified products.

San Lorenzo's location is strategic due to its access to raw materials and port connection, which facilitates export.

YPF enters an expanding global market

With Santa Fe Bio, YPF positions itself in a key sector of the energy transition, aligned with the environmental requirements of air transport and with high potential for future development.