Allied Biofuels, Praj collaborate for massive ethanol refinery in Uzbekistan

Allied Biofuels FE LLC and Praj Industries Ltd have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop what is set to become Central Asia’s largest ethanol production facility in Uzbekistan’s Khorezm region.

Under the partnership, Praj Industries will provide its first-generation (1G) ethanol technology, along with proprietary equipment, engineering, procurement and commissioning support. The planned refinery will produce 890 tonnes of 95% ethanol per day—equivalent to 293,700 tonnes annually—while also capturing biogenic CO₂ generated during the 1G process.

The ethanol produced will serve as a key feedstock for a broader range of advanced fuels. Allied Biofuels will convert a portion of this ethanol into 160,400 tonnes per year of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and 5,040 tonnes per year of Green Diesel. Additionally, biogenic CO₂ will be combined with synthesis gas from gasification and green hydrogen generated using 2,000 MW of PEM electrolysers to produce 257,000 tonnes annually of electro-SAF (e-SAF).

According to the companies, the project marks the first phase of establishing Central Asia’s first integrated refinery capable of producing SAF, e-SAF and Green Diesel at scale. Sorghum will serve as the primary feedstock for ethanol production.

The initiative is closely aligned with Uzbekistan’s climate strategy and the objectives of its Net Zero Emissions Office. By enabling large-scale production of ethanol-derived SAF, the project aims to cut fossil fuel dependence in aviation, reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and strengthen Uzbekistan’s position as a regional renewable energy leader.

Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Chairman, Praj Industries, said: “We are delighted to partner with Allied Biofuels on this pioneering initiative in Uzbekistan. With our proven expertise and advanced technologies, Praj will help develop the ethanol facility. This development will support Uzbekistan’s sustainability goals while positioning Central Asia as an emerging hub in the global energy transition.”

Alfred Benedict, CMD, Allied Biofuels, stated, “This project will strengthen energy security, reduce emissions, and create long-term economic opportunities for the region. Praj’s technology and expertise provide the right foundation to realise this vision in Khorezm.”

The project is expected to generate hundreds of skilled jobs, boost local manufacturing and position Uzbekistan as a competitive exporter of advanced biofuels to global markets.