The first pilot project for the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has been completed in Rijeka, marking a major step for Ina in entering a new era of domestic energy transformation. Between May 5 and 13, a total of 1,000 tons of bio-feedstock — a by-product of palm oil — was processed at the Rijeka refinery facilities, resulting in fuel that is significantly less harmful to the environment than conventional kerosene. Additionally, renewable diesel fuel (HVO) was produced from processed vegetable oils. The entire process was certified by the international certification body Bureau Veritas by European standards for sustainable biofuels.
In cooperation with the American company Chevron Lummus Global, whose technology was applied at the Hydrocracking unit, Ina successfully tested the capability of processing bio-feedstocks in combination with fossil fuels, all without the need to build new refinery systems. The project was technically demanding, requiring eight months of preparation that included the procurement of special filters, enhancement of laboratory methods, increased capacity at key plants, and the development of systems for the safe handling of this new type of feedstock.
The aim of this initiative was not only to demonstrate technological capability, but also to align with the EU’s ambitious goals for increasing the share of renewable energy in transport by 2030. INA plans to complete all the necessary preparations by 2029 to move from the pilot phase to continuous production and regular supply of sustainable aviation fuel to the market. This would position Croatia among the few countries in the region with domestic SAF production.
“We have the knowledge, people, and technology to implement this process in practice,” said Ivica Jerbić, Director of Development at INA, emphasizing that processing bio-feedstocks in existing facilities is one of the most effective ways to decarbonize the industry and reduce transport emissions. Goran Pleše, Operational Director of Refining and Marketing, highlighted that with this move, Ina is positioning itself among the few regional energy companies actively laying the foundation for a sustainable future.
