Repsol selects Axens’ technology for advanced biofuels plant

Axens (Rueil-Malmaison, France) announced that Repsol S.A. (Madrid, Spain) has selected Axens Vegan technology for its first production plant for advanced biofuels in Spain at its Cartagena refinery. This new plant will be capable of producing 250,000 metric tons per year (m.t./yr) of biodiesel, biojet, bionaphtha, and biopropane. Repsol’s project outlines Axens’ expertise in Hydrotreated Vegetable Oils (HVO) and its commitment to power sustainability in transport.

Vegan technology is able to hydrotreat a wide range of lipids and to produce low-density and high cetane renewable diesel as well as renewable sulfur-free jet fuel. This renewable fuels technology allows producers to effectively address today’s environmental regulations and secure energy diversification with drop-in premium quality products.

The scope of Axens’ work includes the supply of process books, catalysts & adsorbents, proprietary equipment, trainings and technical services.

“This advanced biofuels plant is a step forward in Repsol’s commitment to become a net zero carbon company in 2050. Repsol is promoting different technological options for sectors of transport where electrification is not a technically viable option. This adds to renewable hydrogen and synthetic fuels projects that provide new routes towards carbon neutrality in transport”, stated Repsol.

“Axens is excited to work with Repsol, providing Vegan® technology for this advanced biofuels plant in Cartagena. This award further strenghtens Axens’ technology position for sustainable and renewable biofuels. Repsol will benefit from a notable know-how backed by 50 years of experience in middle distillates hydro-treatment and hydrocracking/hydro- isomerization along with support in technology, services and state-of-the-art catalysts developed, manufactured and provided by Axens”, said Patrick Sarrazin, Axens’ Executive Vice-President, Process Licensing Global Business Unit.