Argentina's Senate Passes Biofuel Bill as Four Companies Advance SAF Projects Worth Up to $4 Billion
Why It MattersArgentina's SAF build-out now hinges on a single legislative step that would give producers clearer market access, tying large private capital commitments to the pace of regulatory reform.
Four companies are developing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) projects in Argentina with combined investments of up to $4 billion, as the country considers reforms to its biofuel regulatory framework, according to Industrial Info Resources. The companies are Avalon, GreenSinnergy, Grupo Bahía Energía and Santa Fe Bio, a joint venture between YPF and Essential Energy.
The Argentine Senate approved a new biofuel bill last month aimed at increasing biofuel blending in diesel and petrol, promoting competition and supporting investment in the sector. The legislation has been referred to the Chamber of Deputies for approval. If enacted, the framework would liberalise the commercialisation of SAF, giving producers greater clarity on market access and commercial operations.
Santa Fe Bio is the most advanced, with an estimated investment of more than US$400 million. Construction of its first phase has begun and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, converting the former San Lorenzo refinery to process up to 250,000 tonnes of pre-treated oils annually, including soybean, sunflower, rapeseed and camelina oils, used cooking oils and animal fats. The second phase is targeted for 2030 and is expected to produce up to 423 tonnes per day of renewable diesel and 73 tonnes per day of SAF. Santa Fe Bio has secured an offtake agreement with TotalEnergies for 170,000 tonnes per year.
