Construction Begins on Southern Europe’s Largest Biofuels Facility by Cepsa and Apical

Cepsa, in collaboration with Apical Group’s Bio-Oils division, has initiated the construction of what is set to become the largest biofuels production facility in Southern Europe. The plant, boasting a production capacity of 500,000 metric tons annually, will focus on generating renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The project represents a significant step in the companies’ transition towards more sustainable energy solutions, with a total investment of 1.2 billion euros, an increase from the initially planned 1 billion euros. This additional funding is allocated for infrastructural enhancements at the adjacent port of Huelva.

Owned by the Abu Dhabi fund Mubadala and the Carlyle Group, Cepsa is channeling up to 8 billion euros into its transformation towards low-carbon energy sources. The establishment of this biofuels plant in Andalusia, Spain, is a key component of this strategy, as stated by CEO Maarten Wetselaar. Utilizing organic waste, including used cooking oils, the facility aims to significantly contribute to Cepsa’s objective of producing 2.5 million tons of biofuels by 2030, with 800,000 tons dedicated to SAF. This initiative is crucial for the decarbonization of challenging sectors like aviation, where electrification remains a complex challenge.