Cosmo Energy to launch Japan’s first domestic SAF production in April 2025, advancing the nation’s goal to replace ten percent of jet fuel with cleaner alternatives.

Cosmo Energy Holdings is set to make history by launching Japan’s first domestic production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in April 2025, accelerating the nation’s push for cleaner skies. This initiative aligns with Japan’s ambitious goal of replacing ten percent of jet fuel with eco-friendly alternatives by 2030.

As the country’s third-largest refiner, Cosmo will produce SAF from used cooking oil at its Sakai refinery in western Japan.

Under Japan’s sustainability mandate, domestic refiners must ensure ten percent of their aviation fuel sales come from SAF by 2030. To meet this target, Cosmo has outlined an aggressive expansion plan:

• Thirty Thousand Kilolitres Annually at Sakai: Utilizing used cooking oil.
• One Lakh Fifty Thousand Kilolitres at Sakaide: Sourced from bioethanol.
• One Lakh Twenty Thousand Kilolitres from Imports: Partnering with Thailand’s Bangchak and other Asian suppliers.

Cosmo’s Sakai project is set to produce Twenty-Four Thousand Kilolitres in fiscal 2025 after accounting for maintenance, with major airlines like Japan Airlines (JAL), ANA, and DHL already securing supply contracts.

Looking ahead, Cosmo aims to kickstart SAF production at Sakaide by 2029, with a final investment decision expected in fiscal 2026. Government subsidies covering nearly half of the capital expenditure have helped drive these projects forward.

By moving ahead of competitors, Cosmo Energy is positioning itself as a leader in Japan’s sustainable aviation transition, despite hurdles such as cost reduction, raw material sourcing, and buyer commitments. With this initiative, Japan’s aviation sector takes a bold step toward a greener future.

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