Crysalis Biosciences Inc. is set to establish a $6 million sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facility in Sauget, aiming to notably decrease the carbon footprint within Illinois' fuel and chemical sector.

The company will transform a dormant 57-acre ethanol plant to generate between 5,000 to 10,000 barrels of low-carbon intensity SAF and feedstock daily, exhibiting a carbon intensity score that is 90 percent lower than conventional fossil-derived jet fuel.

Having obtained early environmental approvals to operate under the latest Illinois Environmental Protection Agency guidelines, Crysalis is at the forefront of sustainable fuel production.

Governor J.B. Pritzker expressed enthusiasm, stating, "Illinois is ideally positioned for sustainable fuel development. Crysalis Biosciences' investment in a cutting-edge sustainable aviation fuel facility marks a significant step towards economic advancement alongside carbon footprint reduction in our state."

As a prominent biorefiner, Crysalis anticipates addressing the growing demand for SAF while facilitating the shift towards zero-carbon goods, choosing Sauget due to strategic geographic benefits.

CEO Sanket Gandhi of Crysalis expressed gratitude for the support received from the Governor and the DCEO, emphasizing the innovative transition of zero-carbon chemistry and technology from the laboratory to the market.

Incentivized by REV as part of their $6 million initiative, Crysalis is the initial recipient of an agreement under the REV program for sustainable aviation fuel production, supporting a range of clean energy endeavors in Illinois, such as Rivian's $1.5 billion investment in Central Illinois for their R2 model and various other eco-friendly projects across the state.

Read more here