Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK) partners with McDermott on advanced SAF project

Willis Sustainable Fuels (UK) Limited (WSFL) has entered into a master services agreement with McDermott, a fully-integrated provider of engineering and construction solutions to the energy industry, to provide early engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) initiative. The collaboration begins with WSFL's first planned SAF facility in Teesside, which is supported by the UK Government's Advanced Fuels Fund. The facility is designed to produce 50,000 litres of SAF per day, marking a significant step in advancing the UK's aviation decarbonisation efforts.

As part of the agreement, WSFL and McDermott plan to enter sole-source negotiations for the EPC scope in 2025. The project will leverage next-generation SAF technology, employing either biogas-to-liquid or power-to-liquid processes, depending on the feedstock used.

Amy Ruddock, Senior Vice President of Sustainable Aviation and Corporate Development at Willis Lease Finance Corporation, WSFL's parent company, highlighted the partnership's significance. “Our collaboration with McDermott on one of the UK's most advanced sustainable aviation fuel projects represents a key milestone in our commitment to aviation decarbonisation. This partnership reflects our dedication to working with industry leaders who share our vision for a sustainable future.”

Rob Shaul, Senior Vice President of McDermott's Low Carbon Solutions division, noted, “This agreement highlights McDermott's expertise in integrating design, fabrication and installation with a focus on low carbon solutions. Our strategic relationship with Bilfinger UK positions us to provide WSFL with a self-perform EPC model that minimises risks and optimises costs.”

This project represents a collaborative effort to drive innovation and sustainability in aviation, aligning with broader global efforts to combat climate change.