Norwegian airline Norwegian Air has marked the inaugural use of biofuel for the defence sector’s business trips at Ålesund Airport Vigra. The airline plans to blend 15% biofuel on over one million business trips through 2028, making this agreement the largest of its kind in Norway and potentially the first within NATO, according to the press release.
Chief of Defence Eirik Kristoffersen noted the significance of the agreement, stating, “This is an important step in the defence sector’s climate and environmental strategy.” The sector aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 20% by 2030, focusing on lowering emissions from business travel and military flights.
Norwegian has delivered one million litres of biofuel to Ålesund Airport with support from Finnish energy firm St1 and fuel supplier AFSN. This biofuel will account for 15% of the defence sector’s projected 250,000 business trips in 2024, leading to an estimated reduction of over 2,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions this year.
Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian, emphasized the pioneering role of Norway’s defence sector. “All parties involved can be proud of creating a globally relevant agreement model. We hope this will inspire both public and private sectors to follow suit,” he said.
The Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency, which oversees the agreement, confirmed that Norway is taking a leading role in this area. Acting director of procurement Per Arne Johnsen stated, “We have collaborated with industry, organizations, and experts to shape this tender. The results show we can be at the forefront, and it has already garnered international attention.”
To support local demand, the defence sector mandates that all refuelling occurs in Norway. “Access to biofuels is vital for climate goals and enhances supply security, especially when sourced locally,” Kristoffersen added.
Norwegian will source its biofuel from St1’s new biorefinery in Gothenburg, Sweden. CEO Henrikki Talvitie stated, “Our production in Gothenburg allows us to serve Nordic customers efficiently. Agreements like this help provide predictability and support the energy transition.”
Key Points of the Agreement:
- 15% of the defence sector’s business travel must use biofuel or other low-emission fuels.
- All biofuel must be refuelled in Norway.
- The agreement, which covers four years starting February 2024, is expected to increase Norway’s biofuel consumption by nearly 20%.
About the Biofuel:
- Complies with EU sustainability criteria and documentation requirements.
- Produced at St1’s refinery in Gothenburg and shipped to Ålesund.
- Aviation biofuel has approximately 80% lower CO2 emissions over its lifecycle compared to conventional jet fuel.
About the Norwegian Armed Forces:
The Norwegian Armed Forces carry out various tasks to ensure national safety and are seen as a powerful tool for the authorities. Their responsibilities encompass five main missions: protecting Norway and its allies, conducting surveillance and intelligence, securing borders, contributing globally, and supporting civil society.
