The initiative seeks to establish the industrial-port zone as a European hub for hydrogen and e-SAF production, advancing France’s and Europe’s decarbonization objectives.
The planned facility will produce 75,000 tonnes of e-SAF per year using green hydrogen generated by 300 MW of water electrolyzrs and captured CO₂, with the first production targeted for 2030. The project represents a significant step towards the reindustrialization of France and supports Europe’s ambition for sustainable aviation.
A key technological focus of the project is the methanol-to-jet synthesis pathway, which enables the conversion of methanol – produced from green hydrogen and captured carbon – into high-quality jet fuel that can be used without modification to existing aircraft. This approach offers a scalable and practical route to decarbonizing the aviation sector.
Following the early-stage engineering studies, Rely will apply its expertise in electrolysis and gas-to-liquid integration. The company will work with technology providers for CO₂-to-methanol and methanol-to-jet processes, with the results expected to pave the way for a potential FEED study.
H4 Marseille Fos is considered the leading e-SAF project in the Mediterranean area. Its strategic location, connected to the European pipeline network, makes it ideal for serving Southern and Eastern France as well as the broader Mediterranean region and European airports. The project enjoys strong regional support as a driver of industrial decarbonization.
The collaboration between Rely and H4 Marseille Fos – through parent companies H2V and Hy2gen – aims to establish a sustainable and competitive aviation fuel supply chain. Supported by Régin Sud, Marseille Provence Airport, and Vinci Airports, the initiative exemplifies a collaborative approach to advancing innovation and sustainability in aviation.
Damien Eyriès, CEO of Rely, commented: “This project marks a strategic milestone for Rely, reinforcing our position as a leading expert in e-SAF and hydrogen solutions. Leveraging our engineering expertise and standardization approach, we are committed to advancing this landmark project towards its next development stages and accelerating its Final Investment Decision.”
Alexis Martinez of H4 Marseille Fos added: “This agreement is materializing the structured and robust process of project development implemented by H4 Marseille Fos with major technical players of the sector. Appointing Rely to lead the technical feasibility study of our iconic project marks an important milestone in our development. Their recognized expertise will help us secure th technical choices and move forward with confidence toward the implementation of this strategic project.”
