How PETRONAS, Enilive, and Euglena’s biorefinery in Malaysia could redefine global energy markets

Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS), Enilive S.p.A, and Euglena Co., Ltd. have reached a major milestone with their final investment decision (FID) to develop a cutting-edge biorefinery within PETRONAS’ Pengerang Integrated Complex (PIC) in Johor, Malaysia. This ambitious project is set to significantly impact the biofuels sector, with operations expected to commence by the second half of 2028.

PETRONAS, Enilive, and Euglena to revolutionise biofuels with new biorefinery

The new joint venture, involving PETRONAS Mobility Lestari Sdn Bhd (PMLSB)—a subsidiary of PETRONAS—and Enilive as the primary stakeholders, will cater to the rising global demand for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and other biofuels. The biorefinery will process approximately 650,000 tonnes of raw materials annually, producing SAF, Renewable Diesel/Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO), and bio-naphtha.

Innovative feedstocks and strategic location enhance biorefinery project

The biorefinery will utilise a range of feedstocks, including used vegetable oils, animal fats, and waste from vegetable oil processing. Additionally, the facility will explore microalgae oils in the mid-term. Leveraging PETRONAS’ integrated facilities at the PIC, the biorefinery will be strategically positioned to access feedstock sources and major international shipping lanes, enhancing its global service capabilities.

Advanced technology promises high efficiency for PETRONAS, Enilive, and Euglena biorefinery

Featuring state-of-the-art Ecofining™ technology developed by Eni in collaboration with Honeywell UOP, the biorefinery is designed for high flexibility in feedstock processing and product output. The facility’s design focuses on maximising SAF production for aviation and HVO, setting new standards in biofuel technology.

Expert opinions highlight the significance of PETRONAS, Enilive, and Euglena’s biorefinery

Ahmad Adly Alias, Vice President of Refining, Trading, and Marketing at PETRONAS, emphasized that this project will enhance PETRONAS’ role in the biofuels sector. The biorefinery aligns with PETRONAS’ goal to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050 and support the global bio-based economy.

Enilive’s Chief Executive Officer, Stefano Ballista, noted that the biorefinery project is crucial for achieving Enilive’s 2030 targets, which include a biorefining capacity of over 5 million tonnes per year and SAF optionality up to 2 million tonnes annually. This initiative will expand Enilive’s market presence in Asia and bolster its global footprint.

Euglena Co., Ltd.’s Founder and President, Mitsuru Izumo, highlighted the project’s potential to advance Japan’s biofuel industry and contribute to a carbon-neutral society. The biorefinery will support Euglena’s microalgae research and development, meeting the growing biofuel demand in ASEAN countries.

Conclusion: A milestone in biofuels innovation

The collaboration between PETRONAS, Enilive, and Euglena represents a significant leap forward in the biofuels industry. The new biorefinery is set to transform sustainable fuel production, addressing critical environmental and energy needs on a global scale.