Smartenergy Group AG has signed a strategic partnership with Q8 Aviation, the international aviation arm of Kuwait Petroleum International, to advance the production and use of synthetic sustainable aviation fuel (e-SAF). The agreement makes Q8 Aviation a cornerstone offtake partner for Smartenergy’s future e-SAF output, providing long-term supply to help meet decarbonisation mandates in Europe and the UK.

The partnership supports compliance with the EU’s ReFuelEU Aviation and the UK’s SAF mandate, both of which require airlines to increase their use of sustainable fuels. Produced from renewable hydrogen and captured biogenic CO₂, Smartenergy’s e-SAF is a drop-in fuel compatible with existing aircraft and infrastructure, capable of cutting lifecycle emissions by more than 90% compared with conventional jet fuel.

Smartenergy will initially supply from its two flagship projects in Portugal, Galileu and Leça, both under development to meet EU RED III standards for Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin. Together, they are expected to make a significant contribution towards Europe’s 2030 SAF targets.

By combining Smartenergy’s renewable energy expertise with Q8 Aviation’s global distribution network, the deal positions both companies to address the widening supply gap and accelerate the adoption of low-carbon aviation fuels at scale.