An Illinois-based low carbon feed and fuel production plant has partnered with an Illinois-based aviation fuel technology provider and producer to revolutionize the jet fuel-making process. In February 2022, Marquis Sustainable Aviation Fuels, LLC joined forces with LanzaJet to construct an integrated sustainable fuels plant at the 3,300-acre Marquis Industrial Complex in Hennepin in Putnam County.
This first-of-its-kind facility will use low-carbon intensity feedstocks to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel. This will result in a 70 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional jet fuel. Aviation is widely regarded as one of the most difficult to decarbonize sectors of the world economy, as commercial aircraft have few options to decarbonize other than switching to a replacement SAF.
With a federal goal of setting out to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from the U.S. aviation industry by 2050, the LanzaJet/Marquis partnership represents a landmark initiative and puts Illinois at the cutting edge of plant-based jet fuel production. This deal between the two Illinois-headquartered companies allows Marquis to take a leading role in the development of sustainable fuels and reduce carbon emissions.
The Hennepin facility is strategically located, with proximity to pipelines to deliver sustainable fuels to both of Chicago’s major airports. The facility also has access to the adjacent Illinois River, a Class I railroad and multiple interstate highways. Marquis is a family-run company that has been in business nearly 50 years, and its mission is to be the ‘World’s Leading Producer of Sustainable Fuels.’
“The cutting edge of plant-based jet fuel is happening right here in Illinois,” stated Rep. Ryan Spain (R-Peoria). “The facility in Hennepin is truly unique and Marquis is on track to achieve its stated goal of being the world’s first carbon-neutral industrial complex.”