Sustainable Aviation Fuel Center of Excellence
At LEC Partners, we are excited to announce our Sustainable Aviation Fuel Center of Excellence (SAF COE), bringing together a cross-functional team of global subject matter experts with deep experience in this growing sector.
From feasibility studies, to business plan analysis, and go-to-market strategies, LEC provides decision-makers with the support needed to anticipate future market conditions for SAF projects.


The Sustainable Aviation Future
The journey towards aviation decarbonization will require a growing supply and use of SAF. With new developments and breakthroughs arriving on an almost daily basis, and real policy pressure being applied, resources should be deployed smartly into the technologies and projects that have the greatest chance of commercial success.
Our Center of Excellence can help you navigate the landscape, based on intimate experience with industry trends and the latest SAF technologies.
What clients are saying about working with us
“LEC delivered exceptional work on the Fiji Airways/Fiji Sugar SAF prefeasibility study for the Asia Development Bank. Their proposal stood out for depth and technical expertise, and their analysis of the sugar-to-SAF value chain—both in Fiji and globally—was first-rate. The team worked seamlessly with stakeholders, met tight deadlines, and delivered clear, actionable insights. A top-tier, expert-only consultancy I’d recommend to anyone tackling complex SAF projects.”
— David Lloyd
Principal Investment Specialist
Asia Development Bank (Until March 2025)
Explore the Latest Industry Trends in Our SAF Webinar
Learn about the latest industry trends, regulations and mandates that are driving the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel. Presented by our SAF Center of Excellence lead, Dr. Michael Lakeman, who has directed some of the largest sustainable aviation fuel initiatives worldwide.
Expertise Across the SAF Value Chain
Whether you are an airline, investor, government or SAF producer, our global team of sustainable fuel experts has the experience to guide you to success.
Global Market Analysis
With experts in Asia, Europe and North America, LEC provides high-value insights on SAF production across the globe. Our knowledge of regional policies and trends is vital to understanding short-term impact and long-term profitability.
Technology Evaluation
Our experts evaluate the context-specific relative strengths and weaknesses of the potential SAF producing technologies. We provide our clients with frameworks and processes to select among specific technology providers.
Techno-Economic Review
LEC experts assess the economic viability of SAF projects by assessing feedstocks, CAPEX, OPEX, and risks. Where carbon intensity thresholds or credit values come into play, we calculate the bottom-line benefits of low-carbon fuels.
Regulatory Guidance
We provide our clients with a full and detailed understanding of regulatory incentives, goals and mandates that are critical in understanding the functioning of low carbon aviation fuel markets and determining the viability of investments.
20+
Sustainable Aviation Fuel Experts
30+
Average Years of Experience
95%
PhD, MBA & Advanced Degrees
How We Work
We make it easy to collaborate and quickly get started on your sustainable aviation fuel project, building a team based on your project goals.
Individually, our experts stay abreast of developments in their respective fields. Collectively, we regularly meet to share insights on emerging trends and regulations. This allows us to deliver the interdisciplinary advice, assessment, plans and solutions that best serve your needs.
Meet our Sustainable Aviation Fuel Experts
Our SAF Center of Excellence boasts a team of world-class experts. Our multi-disciplinary teams are accessible through a single point of contact, enabling seamless collaboration with your team.
Michael Lakeman, PhD
CENTER OF EXCELLENCE LEAD
Sustainable Aviation Fuels, Biofuels,
Algae, Feedstock, Forest Residues
Robert Baldwin, PhD
EXPERT
Biofuels, Bio-Based Products,
E-fuels, Gasification, Pyrolysis,
Bio-Oil, Syngas
Doug Rivers, PhD
PROJECT DIRECTOR
Fermentation, Ethanol, Biochemicals,
Enzymes, Cellulose Conversion
Andrew Grant
EXPERT
Biomass Gasification & Combustion,
MSW, Ag Waste, Landfills
Case Studies: Delivering Results for Clients
We’ve worked with forward-thinking organizations in diverse industries, providing unbiased guidance and detailed analysis of sustainable aviation fuel projects.
CASE STUDY
Evaluation of Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production
An alternative investment fund in the Middle East sought help evaluating an investment in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production. The capital would be used to modify an existing refinery...
CASE STUDY
Expert Witness for Ethanol Trade Secret Dispute
A law firm was defending two companies and two individuals in a trade secret misappropriation case in Federal Court. One company was an engineering firm and the second a fuel ethanol producer...
Build the Future of Flying with LEC
The journey towards the future of flying starts today. Our Sustainable Aviation Fuel Center of Excellence is here to guide you through the complexities of this evolving market. Let us help you understand the impact on your supply chain and meet your project goals.
Our Services
Our SAF COE provides tailored services designed to meet the unique needs of sustainable aviation businesses:
Funding & Due Diligence
Identify the best funding sources and validate investment assumptions.
Techno-Economic Analysis & Project Planning
Gain insights from engineering reviews to ensure your project’s financial viability.
Project Development & Operations
Receive expert guidance through every phase of your project, from concept to completion.
Regulatory & Specialty Services
Leverage our deep knowledge of global regulations to ensure compliance and maximize market opportunities.
Market Strategy & Analysis
Develop successful business strategies backed by comprehensive market analysis.
Read our latest insights on the bioeconomy
Fiji Airways, LEC to Partner on SAF Production in Fiji with ADB Funding
BLOGS
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Introduction to Sustainable Aviation Fuel Sustainable Aviation Fuel, known as SAF, is...
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ARTICLES
The Case for E-fuels Use in Aviation
by Pete Rocha, LEC Project Director and Low Carbon Hydrogen Center of...
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