Rely and Verso Energy have announced the selection of Rely to deliver the front-end engineering design (FEED) for the DEZiR eSAF project in Petit-Couronne, Normandie, France. This major step follows the memorandum of understanding signed earlier this year and marks a significant milestone in the technical development of DEZiR, providing the level of definition needed to de-risk the project and pave the way towards EPC execution. As the first industrial scale eSAF initiative in France to reach the FEED stage and among the most advanced in Europe, DEZiR underscores the strategic importance of advancing innovative solutions to decarbonise the aviation sector.

The announcement comes during the Choose France event, a platform that highlights France’s commitment to fostering innovation and attracting investment, particularly in strategic sectors like the energy transition. The DEZiR project represents a major investment in France, highlighting the country’s pivotal role in advancing the e-Fuels sector and fostering local expertise and innovation.

Selected under the 2024 European Innovation Fund, the EU’s flagship program supporting industrial decarbonisation, as well as under the France 2030 program, DEZiR focuses on developing a standardised and replicable platform for Methanol-to-Jet production. This approach is designed to drive down the levelised cost of sustainable aviation fuel through innovation, standardisation, and replication, ensuring the scalability and competitiveness of eSAF production.

The project is part of a broader initiative by Verso Energy to develop with Rely seven e-Fuels production plants worldwide. Together, these facilities aim to produce over 500,000 tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel annually, with up to 90% lower lifecycle emissions compared to conventional jet fuel.

Antoine Huard, CEO of Verso Energy, says: 'We are on track to meet the 2030 targets for eSAF in aviation and starting the FEED of the DEZiR project is a critical step in our journey and a significant investment. By partnering with Rely, we are leveraging their expertise in large-scale industrial projects and their commitment to standardisation and innovation.'

Damien Eyriès, CEO of Rely, adds: 'The award of the FEED contract for the DEZiR project is a testament to the strong partnership between Rely and Verso Energy. This milestone reflects Rely’s unique expertise in Power-to-X integration and our ability to deliver innovative, scalable, and competitive solutions for our clients. We are proud to contribute to a project that not only accelerates the decarbonisation of aviation but also positions France as a leader in the global e-Fuels market.'