Construction of Total’s SAF biorefinery at Grandpuits moves forward while biogas, mechanical-recycling projects suspended

The Grandpuits complex in France. (Photo: Total Energies)

Total Energies announced March 31 that the ongoing conversion of the Grandpuits refinery in France is entering a key phase.

Over 1,200 people are working on the project, which includes the launch of an advanced plastics-recycling unit, the first in France to use this particular technology, and the construction of a biorefinery for the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Once completed, this vast project will be the company’s first zero-crude platform.

The complex construction operation, for which as much of the site’s equipment as possible is reused, requires the mobilization and expertise of all the employees who know the Grandpuits site.

Some projects due to arrive in the second phase—biogas and mechanical recycling—have been suspended, according to Total Energies.

Employees who were to join them have been reassigned with their agreement to the first two major projects, Total Energies stated.

In line with its plans at the outset of the project in 2020, Total Energies confirmed that 250 jobs will be maintained at Grandpuits following the conversion.

Within a few months, Grandpuits will be able to produce 10,000 tons a year of pyrolysis oil from recycled plastic.

Beginning in 2026, the site will be capable of producing up to 230,000 tons a year of sustainable aviation fuel.