Rely has been awarded to assist H4 Marseille Fos in early engineering studies to solidify plant definition and support permitting for a landmark project dedicated to producing sustainable aviation fuel (e-SAF) in Fos-sur-Mer, Bouches du Rhône, France. This initiative aims to position the industrial-port zone as a European hub for hydrogen and e-SAF production, supporting France’s and Europe’s decarbonization ambitions.
75,000 tons of e-SAF will be produced annually from green hydrogen produced by 300MW water electrolyzers, and from captured CO2, with first production expected in 2030. This project exemplifies a significant step toward reindustrializing France in line with Europe’s ambition for sustainable aviation.
A key aspect of this project is the potential of methanol-to-jet fuel synthesis pathway, which offers a promising route for decarbonizing aviation. Methanol, produced from green hydrogen and captured carbon, will be converted into high-quality jet fuel, providing a scalable solution that can be used without modifying aircraft.
Aligned with European objectives to incorporate 10% e-SAF into aviation fuels by 2040, as outlined in the ReFuelEU Aviation regulation, this project underscores France and Europe’s commitment to a cleaner, more competitive aviation sector.
A collaboration built on strength and innovation
Following early-stage engineering studies, the project demonstrates Rely’s leadership in integrating electrolysis and gas-to-liquid technologies. Rely brings a strong track record and foundation of technological excellence and project execution capability, ensuring the delivery of state-of-the-art solutions. Studies will also integrate technological providers for CO2 to methanol and methanol-to-jet technological bricks. The studies conducted will pave and accelerate the way for potential FEED study.
H4 Marseille Fos is considered as the leading e-SAF project in the Mediterranean area. Its connection to the European pipeline network makes it an ideal location to serve Southern and Eastern France, as well as the Mediterranean basin and airports in the rest of Europe. H4 Marseille Fos is strongly supported at regional level as a levy for the decarbonisation of local industry.
Such collaboration between Rely and H4 Marseille Fos, through its parent companies H2V and Hy2gen, is envisioned to support a sustainable and competitive aviation fuel supply chain, leveraging partnerships as catalysts for the development of green hydrogen and its derivatives. Supported by Région Sud, Marseille Provence Airport, and Vinci Airports, the initiative exemplifies a collaborative ecosystem approach to innovation and sustainability in aviation.
Damien Eyriès, CEO - Rely, stated: “This project marks a strategic milestone for Rely, reinforcing our position as a leading expert in e-SAF and hydrogen solutions and showcasing our innovative efforts to deliver and de-risk the energy transition in Europe. Leveraging our engineering expertise and our standardization approach, we are committed to advancing this landmark project towards next development stages, therefore with the aim of accelerating its Final Investment Decision.”
Alexis Martinez - H4 Marseille Fos, stated: “This agreement is materializing the structured and robust process of project development implemented by H4 Marseille Fos with major technical players of the sector. Appointing Rely to lead the technical feasibility study of our iconic project marks an important milestone in our development. Their recognized expertise will help us secure the technical choices and move forward with confidence toward the implementation of this strategic project.”