Clean Energy Technology Observatory: Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin in the European Union - 2024 Status Report on Technology Development, Trends, Value Chains and Markets

This report investigates the status and trend of Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO), except hydrogen, which are needed to cover part of the EU’s demand for renewable fuels in the coming years. Most of the conversion technologies investigated have been already demonstrated at small-scale, and the current EU legislative framework under the recast of the Renewable Energy Directive (EU) 2018/2001 (Directive EU 2023/2413) sets specific targets for their use. As first, well-established solid hydrogen supply chains are needed, together with carbon capture technologies for Carbon Capture and Use (CCU). Fuels that may be produced starting from H2 and CO2 or N2 are hydrocarbons, alcohols and ammonia. The use of RFNBO is crucial in the transition period towards the electrification for the hard-to-abate sectors and their ability to be used in the existing fuel infrastructures, so many funding programmes are today available. Moreover, EU leads the sector in terms of patents, companies and demonstration activities. Finally, the report considers the major challenges and the opportunities for a rapid market uptake of such fuels.JRC.C.2 - Energy Efficiency and Renewable

Clean Energy Technology Observatory: Advanced Biofuels in the European Union - 2024 Status Report on Technology Development, Trends, Value Chains and Markets

The report provides a detailed examination of the biofuel sector and advanced biofuel sector within the European Union (EU), focusing on its economic, environmental, and technological dimensions. The report is an update of the CETO 2023 report. The EU is highlighted as the central point of view, with specific references to EU Member States showcasing their roles in the sector. The report is essential for understanding the multifaceted role of advanced biofuels in the EU's strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy security. The report underscores the EU's commitment through various policies and directives, such as the Renewable Energy Directive and its amendment, which set sustainability criteria and define advanced biofuels. The report details the EU's leadership in scientific publications and high-value patents in the advanced biofuel sector. It gives insights into the current state of innovation and the areas where the EU is leading. The report delves into technological advancements and challenges in the biofuel sector. It discusses various advanced biofuel technologies currently being developed and commercialised. The report covers the trends in installed capacity and production of biofuels within the EU, providing a comparative analysis with other regions. It details the production capacities and operational plants for bioethanol and biodiesel. The report provides comprehensive data on the economic contributions of the advanced biofuel sector to the EU's economy. The report details the sector's impact on GDP and employment, highlighting the significant contributions from operation and maintenance, feedstock supply, construction, and equipment manufacturing. The report emphasises the importance of continued investment, technological development, and international collaboration to ensure the advanced biofuel sector's growth and sustainability.JRC.C.2 - Energy Efficiency and Renewable