FatHopes Energy and Lootah Biofuels to Explore Supplying Cleaner Jet Fuel for Dubai’s Aviation Sector

MoU signed during COP28 in Dubai, witnessed by Malaysia’s Minister of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Nik Nazmi, and UAE’s Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Mariam Almheiri

Dubai, UAE, 8 December: Malaysia headquartered biofuel feedstock supplier FatHopes Energy Sdn Bhd, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dubai-based Lootah Biofuels LLC to supply sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to airlines flying out from the Dubai International Airport.?

The MoU, signed during COP28 in Dubai, was witnessed by Malaysia’s Minister of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Nik Nazmi Bin Nik Ahmad, and the United Arab Emirates’ Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Mariam Almheiri. Under the leadership of two young leaders, the collaboration between FatHopes Energy and Lootah Biofuels aims to explore the potential development of an SAF Refinery that can supply SAF to the aviation sector in Dubai or directly to the airport. The location of the plant will be determined based on the most strategic factors, such as the proximity to the point of consumption in Dubai or the availability of the feedstock in Malaysia. The MoU is a significant step towards reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry and promoting green energy solutions.?

The agreement also includes plans for Lootah Biofuels to study, adapt, and implement FatHopes Energy’s used cooking oil (UCO) aggregation technology that has been developed for the past decade. This includes mobile apps and other digital solutions, along with an entrepreneurship program and franchisee scheme throughout the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The goal is to secure a consistent supply of raw materials for the SAF Refinery and establish a circular economy model that turns waste oil into valuable fuel.?

This strategic initiative between FatHopes Energy and Lootah Biofuels also outlines a comprehensive plan for assessing and exploring the collaborative establishment of a UCO feedstock aggregation hub located in Westport, Malaysia. Planned as a regional consolidation centre, this hub is designed to efficiently manage all waste-derived feedstock spanning all of Asia. The hub will be vital to maximising the transportation and processing of feedstock for the SAF refinery with 200,000 tons of annual capacity. Beyond its operational function, the hub is positioned to enhance regional collaboration and trade within the renewable energy sector, contributing to the development of a more interconnected and sustainable landscape. Collectively, FatHopes Energy and Lootah Biofuels will also study the establishment of essential biofuels infrastructure in Southeast Asia to support the biofuels industry throughout the entire supply chain.

Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, the Minister of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change of Malaysia, said, “This collaboration marks a significant stride towards a more sustainable future for the aviation industry. The commitment of FatHopes Energy and Lootah Biofuels to develop the most competitive and carbon-efficient solution from waste for this sector is truly laudable. This partnership not only strengthens the ties between our nations but also exemplifies our shared efforts in fostering environmental responsibility.”

Dubai International Airport, among the world's busiest, completed a pipeline project in 2015 connecting it to Horizon Terminals to secure its substantial annual jet fuel demand of 10 billion litres, reducing reliance on road tanker deliveries. Addressing environmental concerns, the airport is exploring sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with potential 80% carbon emission reduction. However, SAF adoption faces challenges due to limited and expensive supply, requiring increased investment and innovation. According to an S&P Global Commodity Insights study, SAF demand is projected to be 5.8% of jet fuel by 2050. Current production falls short of this target, highlighting the need for initiatives, like the FatHopes Energy and Lootah Biofuels partnership, that will enable industry scaling to enhance accessibility and affordability for the aviation sector.

Vinesh Sinha, founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FatHopes Energy said, “Partnering with Lootah Biofuel provides us with the opportunity to explore the possibility of building a SAF Refinery that can supply green jet fuel to the aviation sector in Dubai and beyond. As a player in the waste and residue biofuel feedstock market, we have the resources and the network to source and deliver high-quality and low-carbon feedstocks for SAF production. We believe that this MoU will pave the way for a long-term and mutually beneficial partnership, as well as support the global agenda to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the aviation industry. We are looking forward to working with Lootah Biofuel to make this a reality.”?

Yousif Saeed Lootah, CEO of Lootah Biofuels LLC said, “This collaboration is more than a partnership; it reflects our values and our vision for a sustainable future. We are excited about the positive impact this initiative will have on the aviation industry and the broader global community. Lootah Biofuels LLC is at the forefront of environmental responsibility, and we are eager to contribute to positive change, setting new standards for sustainability and innovation within the aviation landscape.”

For more information on the companies, visit www.fathopesenergy.com and https://www.lootahbiofuels.com/.?

About FatHopes Energy

FatHopes Energy is a pioneering force in sustainable energy solutions, specialising in the development of eco-friendly fats, oils, and grease solutions for advanced biofuel production. With a comprehensive approach to the entire biofuel production cycle, the company caters to diverse clientele, ranging from smaller-scale establishments to global oil and gas companies. Headquartered in Malaysia, FatHopes Energy is committed to making a positive impact on the environment while contributing to the global shift towards renewable energy sources.

About Lootah Biofuels

Lootah Biofuel Company was established in Dubai in 2010 to meet the growing demand for alternative fuels in the region and in line with the UAE’s vision for sustainable development. Lootah Biofuel Company aims to provide and innovate long-term sustainable solutions to energy needs. By rapidly expanding production capacity, improving distribution channels and redefining biodiesel quality, Lootah Biofuels will further expand access to sustainable and environmentally friendly biofuels. Visit www.lootahbiofuels.com.

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