Axens to Supply Fischer-Tropsch Upgrading Technology for Two Canadian Biomass-to-SAF Projects
Why It MattersThe deal signals continued expansion of cellulosic biomass-to-SAF pathways in North America, with technology providers positioning to scale second-generation aviation fuel production ahead of aviation's decarbonization targets.
Expander Energy Inc., based in Canada, has selected Axens to provide its Fischer-Tropsch (FT) Liquid Upgrading technology for two commercial sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) projects in the country. The technology will support Expander's patented Enhanced Biomass to Liquids (EBTL) and Biomass Electrolysis to Liquids (BETL) processes, which convert cellulosic feedstocks into drop-in, second-generation fuels including SAF.
The first two planned deployments are the Wheatland Bio-Synfuels Facility near Calgary, Alberta, and the Mackenzie Biomass Derived E-Fuels Facility in northern British Columbia. Both projects are moving through regulatory and financing milestones, with final investment decisions targeted for December 2026.
Expander has also named Axens as its strategic upgrading technology provider across a wider portfolio of SAF and renewable diesel developments, aimed at scaling commercially viable pathways for producing lower-carbon aviation fuels from biomass. Tina Craft, CEO of Axens Americas, said the company would support the growing adoption of second-generation fuels by leveraging its hydro-upgrading portfolio and expertise in advanced fuel production. Gord Crawford, President and CEO of Expander Energy, said Axens' technology would help ensure that the final-stage processing of Expander's Bio-SynJet sustainable aviation fuel meets the technical specifications required by the aviation industry.
