Shell to license XTL process to Engie for e-SAF project

Shell Catalysts & Technologies has signed a technology license agreement with energy provider Engie for the France KerEAUzen project, which aims to produce synthetic aviation fuel (e-SAF) from captured biogenic CO2 and renewable (green) hydrogen.

Under the agreement, Shell will license its Shell XTL process technology in its power-to-liquids (PTL) archetype, enabling Engie to convert CO2 into synthetic kerosene. This integrated process includes the Shell Reverse Water‑Gas Shift (RWGS) Process, which converts CO2 and hydrogen into synthesis gas, followed by the Shell Fischer–Tropsch Process and the Shell Wax Hydroconversion Process to produce drop‑in aviation fuel meeting ReFuelEU Aviation requirements.

Shell’S XTL process is said to build on Shell’s decades of experience in developing, designing, constructing and operating gas-to-liquids (GTL) facilities, including Pearl, the world’s largest integrated GTL plant.

The France KerEAUzen project, located in Le Havre, Normandy, was selected under the ADEME Carb Aero initiative and represents a key step in developing a European e-SAF value chain in France and Europe. Its location provides strong access for aviation fuel to Paris airports as well as to other major European airports and logistics hubs.