Swiss cleantech company Synhelion has made significant strides towards establishing a commercial facility for synthetic fuels in the Tan-Tan province of southern Morocco. The proposed facility is set to have an impressive production capacity of 100,000 tons annually. To formalize this ambitious project, Synhelion has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Moroccan government, marking a pivotal step in the transition towards renewable energy.
In collaboration with multiple Moroccan ministries and the Investment Agency AMDIE, Synhelion aims to construct a production plant dedicated to renewable synthetic fuels. This facility will be strategically located in Tan-Tan, within the Guelmim-Oued Noun region, a site recognized for its potential in renewable energy production. Although Synhelion has not disclosed specific details regarding the investment amount, timeline, or the commencement of construction for the Tan-Tan facility, the company has confirmed that it has secured land for the project and established a branch named Synhelion Morocco, which has been granted Casablanca Finance City status—a designation aimed at attracting international businesses to Morocco.
Gianluca Ambrosetti, co-CEO and co-founder of Synhelion, emphasized that this agreement signifies the transition from evaluation to concrete project development. The company’s demonstration plant, known as "Dawn," has been operational since 2024. Initially, Synhelion had planned to launch its first commercial facility in Spain by 2027; however, plans have shifted towards constructing it in Jülich, near the Dawn facility, with substantial support of 90 million euros from EU funds. Additional sites are currently under review as Synhelion explores further expansion opportunities.
Karim Zidane, Morocco's Minister for Investments, Convergence, and Public Policy Evaluation, commented on the project, stating that it capitalizes on the significant potential for renewable energy in the Guelmim-Oued Noun region. He believes that this initiative could lead to the creation of new value chains, open up local economic opportunities, and enhance Morocco's standing as a competitive hub for green industry.
Synhelion specializes in producing synthetic kerosene, diesel, and gasoline utilizing renewable energy and biogenic waste. The production process is designed to create drop-in fuels, which can seamlessly replace conventional fuels without requiring modifications to existing infrastructure. This innovative approach not only contributes to reducing carbon emissions but also positions the company as a leader in the sustainable energy sector.
As reported by hzwei.info.