Exolum, a European energy logistics company, will invest £4.5 million (US$6 million) in a new sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blending facility. The site will be located at Redcliffe Bay in south-west England. It marks the start of a national network of SAF blending hubs across the UK.
Supporting the UK’s Green Aviation Goals
The announcement comes as the UK’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Bill moves ahead in Parliament. The Bill introduces new incentives for SAF production. It also supports the aviation sector’s shift towards lower emissions. SAF blends with standard jet fuel and works in aircraft without modification. Therefore, airlines can cut emissions without costly changes.
Expanding Clean Fuel Access
By blending customers’ SAF into its aviation fuel network, Exolum will supply greener fuel to key airports. These include Heathrow, Gatwick, Bristol, Exeter and Cardiff. As a result, the company will help the UK lead in clean aviation.
Building a SAF Superhighway
The Redcliffe Bay facility is the first in a series of planned blending hubs. Together, these sites will form a “SAF Superhighway” within Exolum’s 2,000km pipeline system. The network will give producers and importers direct market access. It will also provide sustainable jet fuel for about 40% of UK flights.
Driving Sustainable Growth
The facility is due to open in 2026. When operational, it could fuel up to 64,700 London–New York flights a year. The project will attract new investment in regional SAF production across south-west England and southern Wales.
Modern Infrastructure and Upgrades
Initially, unblended SAF will arrive by ship at Bristol’s Royal Portbury Dock. It will then move by pipeline to Redcliffe Bay. There, it will be stored, blended and distributed nationwide. Exolum will also upgrade existing tanks, install advanced blending systems and add new pumps and filters.
Powering a Cleaner Future
With this investment, Exolum strengthens its commitment to sustainable aviation. Step by step, the company is building the infrastructure that will drive the UK’s transition to cleaner, greener energy.
