Croatia’s national refiner produces SAF from HVO for the first time

In Croatia, for the first time in its history, the Rijeka Refinery has produced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF – Sustainable Aviation Fuel). As part of its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and align with European renewable energy regulations, INA has successfully completed a pilot project to process biogenic feedstock at the Hydrocracking Unit of the Rijeka Refinery. In addition to SAF, a significant volume of renewable diesel (HVO – Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) was also produced. Through the Renewable Energy Directive, the European Union has set binding targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the share of renewable energy sources in transport. By 2030, EU member states are required to ensure an appropriate share of renewables in the transport sector, with a particular focus on advanced biofuels and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which will play a key role in decarbonizing the aviation industry. In response to these requirements, INA plans to complete all preparatory activities and be ready to ensure continuous supply of sustainable aviation fuel to the market by 2029.