Identification of suitable carbon as feedstock for PtX products to be exported to Europe

There are many different options to utilise carbon in order to produce hydrocarbons as used in Power-to-X (PtX) products like e-methanol or e-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (e-SAF). The discussion around carbon as a feedstock for PtX is crucial because of implications regarding availability, sustainability, and product-related emissions – all of which also relate to regulation and policies.

This paper explores carbon sources for PtX production within the framework of the European Union's (EU) hydrogen Delegated Acts of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II). By analysing this current legislative environment, its consequences, and not-yet-clarified aspects, the paper provides a comprehensive overview of the regulatory considerations and demonstrates with the help of different scenarios the practical implications of identifying suitable carbon sources for sustainable PtX processes.