Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (RYAM) and France-based Verso Energy have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate the development of a sustainable aviation fuel (e-SAF) and carbon utilization project at RYAM’s Jesup, Georgia facility.
The agreement builds on a December 2024 partnership and now includes joint feasibility studies for multiple clean energy initiatives:
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A CO₂ capture and storage (CCS) project
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A hydrogen production unit
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An e-fuel unit converting biogenic CO₂ and green hydrogen into e-SAF
The Jesup site, already home to industrial-scale biogenic CO₂ sources, offers a strong foundation for these low-carbon innovations.
"This new MoU marks an exciting evolution in our collaboration," said De Lyle Bloomquist, President and CEO of RYAM. "We’re committed to creating environmental and economic value by tapping into our renewable carbon and biomass streams."
Antoine Huard, CEO of Verso Energy, emphasized the site’s potential to showcase integrated carbon capture and fuel production in North America. "This agreement reflects our confidence in the U.S. market and our commitment to climate goals," he said.
The MoU includes an exclusivity period, a joint steering committee, and plans to negotiate definitive agreements, including a CO₂ supply contract. A feasibility study is already underway, with a final investment decision expected within 18 to 24 months.
About RYAM
Rayonier Advanced Materials is a global leader in cellulose-based technologies, producing high-purity cellulose and a range of biomaterials. Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, RYAM operates in the U.S., Canada, and France.
About Verso Energy
Verso Energy is a French developer of sustainable energy projects, focused on green hydrogen, renewable fuels, and Power-to-X technologies to drive the energy transition.
