India’s aviation sector is poised for a green transformation with the launch of NG SAF, an indigenous ethanol-to-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) technology developed by GPS Renewables in collaboration with CSIR-NCL. The breakthrough uses a patented catalyst to convert ethanol into aviation-grade fuel through a one-step oligomerization process — a feat that has remained elusive at commercial scale until now. 

Gomatam Ravi, CTO, GPS Renewables, said, “We are thrilled to partner with CSIR-NCL to build an indigenous and breakthrough SAF technology that can position India as a leader in SAF production. At GPS, we have always prioritised technology that can fast-track India’s transition to clean energy, and this collaboration reflects that commitment.” 

Dr. Ashish Lele, Director, CSIR-NCL, added, “Scientific research, when coupled with industry collaboration, can create promising solutions to address global challenges. This indigenous technology, named NG SAF, based on CSIR-NCL’s patented oligomerization process, can be a game-changer to decarbonize the aviation sector.”   

Mainak Chakraborty, CEO, GPS Renewables, highlighted the strength of the team behind NG SAF, including experts from Petrofac, Petronas, Technip, Toyo, McDermott, L&T, and others, emphasizing decades of engineering and cleantech experience converging to make the project a reality. 

Vikraman Venu, Senior VP – SAF and Strategic Partnerships at GPS Renewables, stressed that “feedstock security is the most critical aspect for long-term operations and profitability. Agri-feedstock allocation, like in HAREDA, is important as SAF parks will create competition for feedstock that is already in short supply.” He also highlighted pricing mechanisms, noting that “SAF price should be pegged to the CO2 emission savings. Other pathways, such as ethanol-to-jet and Fischer Tropsch, have a lower carbon footprint and hence should be given better pricing.” 

Venu further suggested that incentives for renewable energy, including waivers on wheeling, transmission, and other overhead charges for solar and wind power, could help reduce operational costs and accelerate SAF adoption. 

With NG SAF, India is not only aiming to produce a sustainable aviation fuel domestically but also positioning itself as a global player in clean aviation, offering a scalable alternative to the HEFA route limited by feedstock challenges.