Vataset Teollisuus and Liquid Sun are partnering to enhance the environmental and climate-friendliness of the Kemijarvi Biopark. CO2 emissions from energy and fiber wood processing will be converted into natural raw materials for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production.
The Finnish company Liquid Sun and the forest industry business developer Vataset have signed a cooperation agreement for the biopark in Patokangas, Kemijärvi. Since 2020, Vataset has been developing with partners a circular economy-based biopark specializing in the chemical processing of wood to bio-chemicals, biomethanol, e-fuels, fibers and energy. The partnership with Liquid Sun and Vataset aims to utilize the CO2 emissions from the biopark as a raw material for synthetic e-fuels. The construction of the SAF production plant will begin in early 2025 and is expected to be operational by the end of 2026.
Once the fiber line is completed and in volume production, it will release up to 2 million tons of CO2 annually, which will be processed on-site. The need for a cost-effective, low-temperature solution led to a partnership with Liquid Sun to utilize their patented technology. This technology enables the use of biogenic CO2 at its source to produce raw material for SAF, creating a closed carbon cycle.
"We've been looking for a partner to enable the Kemijarvi Biopark to further contribute to the transition from fossil fuels to biofuels and to meet emission targets. Integrating Liquid Sun's innovative technology creates a win-win situation: we provide biogenic CO2, and Liquid Sun's technology produces sustainable feedstock for aviation fuels. This partnership also contributes to broader emission reduction goals, which is a shared mission for both parties," summarizes Harri Vatanen, CEO of Vataset.
"Vataset Teollisuus aims to build the Kemijärvi Biopark based on strong environmental values as a carbon-free, bio-product-based eco-industrial hub, which not only brings wealth to the region but also promotes the sustainable use of renewable resources. The values and goals of both parties are well aligned, creating strong prospects for future cooperation," says Dr. Pasi Keinänen, CEO of Liquid Sun.
The ecosystem surrounding the bio-product factory supports various industrial activities. Production at low temperatures is crucial to minimize environmental impacts. The location along the Kemijoki River requires a low thermal load to avoid disturbing the aquatic ecosystem and its recreational and professional use.
"Kemijärvi has a strong industrial history with a long tradition in wood processing and sustainable forestry. We are pleased that Vataset is building the flagship of future bioproducts manufacturing in the Kemijärvi Biopark. Innovative companies like Liquid Sun are urgently needed to ensure carbon neutrality and well-being go hand in hand. It is a pleasure and privilege to help build new success for the region and the industry," says Marjo Säärelä, Mayor of Kemijärvi.
Liquid Sun's technology, developed at Tampere University and Stanford University, provides solutions for the green transition across multiple industries by partnering with companies whose operations generate CO2 emissions as a byproduct, turning emissions into valuable raw materials. Although the technology scales to produce various e-fuels, the company's near-term focus is on producing raw materials for SAF. The final implementation plan will be formed once the project's timeline and funding are secured, the aim is to have Liquid Sun's technology operational by 2026. Part of the SAF production planning involves securing offtake agreements with users of sustainable aviation fuel, concludes Pasi Keinänen.
Comments