On November 17, Allied Biofuels FE LLC and Praj Industries Ltd of India officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop Central Asia’s largest ethanol refinery in Uzbekistan’s Khorezm region, marking a significant milestone in the region’s renewable energy landscape, according to the press release.
Under the agreement, Praj Industries will provide its cutting-edge first-generation ethanol technology, alongside proprietary equipment and comprehensive support that includes design, engineering, procurement, and commissioning services. The proposed facility is set to produce 890 tonnes of 95% ethanol per day, which translates to an annual output of roughly 293,700 tonnes. Sorghum will be the primary feedstock for this large-scale operation, and the plant will also capture and utilize the biogenic CO₂ emissions generated during the ethanol production process.
As per the news report, Allied Biofuels, for its part, intends to convert the ethanol into 160,400 tonnes of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and 5,040 tonnes of green diesel each year. The plant will go a step further by integrating biogenic CO₂, which will be combined with synthesis gas and green hydrogen, produced by 2,000 MW of PEM electrolysers, to generate 257,000 tonnes of Electro-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (e-SAF) annually.
This development marks the first phase in the creation of Central Asia’s first fully integrated refinery for SAF, e-SAF, and green diesel. Both companies emphasize that the project is designed to align with Uzbekistan’s climate and energy objectives, particularly supporting the country’s broader ambition to meet its Net Zero Emissions targets.
“This MOU represents a pivotal moment for Uzbekistan and signals a new era for clean energy in Central Asia,” stated Alfred Benedict, Chairman and Managing Director of Allied Biofuels. “This initiative will bolster energy security, lower emissions, and open up long-term economic opportunities for the region.”
Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Chairman of Praj Industries, added, “Leveraging our deep expertise and advanced technology, Praj is committed to helping Uzbekistan realize its renewable energy vision and further its sustainability goals.”
In addition to its environmental benefits, the project is expected to create hundreds of skilled jobs in the region and help position Uzbekistan as a key player in the advanced biofuels sector.
This venture comes amid Uzbekistan’s growing focus on renewable energy, and is in line with the country’s ongoing efforts to forge international partnerships for clean technology. The Times of Central Asia has previously highlighted Uzbekistan’s push to develop its renewable energy capabilities, signaling a shift toward more sustainable practices in the country’s energy infrastructure.
Also read: First-ever commercial facility of ethanol-to-Jet fuel begins operations
