Pemex plans first biojet fuel plant in Veracruz

Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) has announced plans for its first biorefinery to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) using sugarcane. The proposed facility is slated for Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, at the Pajaritos Petrochemical Complex.

The project is expected to follow a three-stage development process. The first stage involves feasibility studies, with results anticipated by the first quarter of 2027. The second stage, focused on investment, is expected to be finalized in 2028. Industry estimates suggest the construction and adaptation of the plant could require an investment between $850 million and $1 billion. The final stage aims for the plant to be operational by 2030, with a projected production capacity of 5,000 barrels per day.

In a related development, the Mexican Institute of Petroleum (IMP) and Topsoe Mexico are exploring collaborations to advance SAF technology. Their discussions include pilot testing, feedstock characterization, and digital transformation to support energy transition and emission reduction within the Mexican energy sector.