On September 13, 2024, Texas Deepwater Partners LLC (TDWP) finalized the sale of 60 acres along the Houston Ship Channel to Summit Next Gen LLC (Summit Next Gen). This acquisition enables Summit Next Gen to establish the first large-scale ethanol-to-jet fuel (ETJ) facility, aimed at producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Additionally, Summit has secured an exclusive option for an extra 40 acres to accommodate future plant expansion in response to increasing SAF demand.
In partnership with Summit Next Gen, TDWP will construct, own, and operate a dock designed for deepwater vessels and barges. This dock and the related infrastructure will facilitate the unloading of waterborne feedstock and the loading of finished products for distribution to end markets. Summit Next Gen will support the dock development through a long-term terminal services agreement with TDWP. Furthermore, both companies are exploring additional transportation options to enhance the efficiency and capabilities of the new plant.
This collaboration represents a significant advancement in the renewable energy and sustainable transportation sectors, with the facility poised to play a crucial role in meeting the rising global demand for SAF. The partnership highlights the necessity of innovative infrastructure and transportation solutions to ensure the success of future low-carbon energy initiatives. The plant and its dock infrastructure are targeted to reach a final investment decision (FID) by mid-2025, with operations expected to commence in 2027.
David Dunning, Senior Vice President of TDWP, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are excited about the opportunity to work with Summit Next Gen, and by extension, Summit Ag. We view them as a first mover with a clear vision in the SAF market, making them an ideal partner. We will continue exploring opportunities to enhance their project through TDWP’s multi-modal capabilities. This project represents TDWP’s first step in building an energy transition hub, and we look forward to advancing it.”
Robert Halpin, CEO of Summit Next Gen, emphasized the strategic advantage brought by the partnership, stating, “Summit Next Gen’s developing partnership with TDWP adds a competitive edge to our project to develop the first at-scale ETJ SAF production facility. Securing a site with the necessary connectivity allows us to pursue commercial discussions aggressively and advance the project, ultimately creating value for all stakeholders involved.”
This transaction marks a pivotal moment in TDWP’s vision to evolve into a significant alternative energy industrial hub. By providing essential infrastructure and logistical support to the expanding renewable energy sector, TDWP is well-positioned to drive the future of sustainable industrial development.
