In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation which will competitively position Pennsylvania to emerge as a national leader in using cutting-edge technology in the generation of lower-carbon aviation fuel, known as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
 
SAF is produced via chemical processes that use non-petroleum feedstocks, which results in a lower carbon emission equivalent from air transportation when compared to the production of conventional jet fuel. The global aviation industry is currently facing significant challenges for SAF production; due to the cost of production, logistical demands, and feedstock limitations, global demand outstrips current supply, which is approximately 5 million gallons per year. It is estimated that by 2030, the U.S. market demand for SAF will reach approximately 3 billion gallons.
 
Pennsylvania is in an advantageous position to capitalize on an early investment in SAF production. The Commonwealth is gifted with superior access to feedstocks such as ethanol and natural gas, access to optimal supply chain distribution channels, ideal production sites and access to technological expertise.
 
Foreseeing a steep rise in global demand, several of our competitor states have already enacted SAF production tax credits to create a more attractive environment to site new production facilities. A similar tax credit, combined with Pennsylvania’s existing advantages, could serve to propel the commonwealth to the forefront of consideration while developers consider the best locations to site new developments. Major investors in SAF development are imminently poised to make a siting decision in 2026, making time of the essence for maintaining Pennsylvania's competitive position.
 
In addition to commercial demand, military stakeholders in Pennsylvania have expressed support for the development of in-state SAF production. Regional SAF capacity would enhance fuel resiliency for military operations, support domestic supply chain security, and create opportunities for collaboration between civilian aviation and defense partners.
 
Please join me in cosponsoring this important legislation.