RLCF Label

What is the RLCF Labelling Scheme?

To support projects focused on producing sustainable fuels for aviation and maritime transport as well as building a credible pipeline of projects, the Renewable and Low-Carbon Fuels Value Chain Industrial Alliance (RLCF Alliance) has designed a labelling scheme. This scheme highlights credible, mature projects that offer significant EU value, helping them progress towards investment decisions and full-scale production.

To qualify for the RLCF Label, projects are assessed against a predefined framework and criteria, developed by the Task Force on Labelling (TF-Labelling) and approved by the RLCF Alliance, with oversight from the Steering Group.

The labelling criteria

Projects are evaluated against eight criteria drawn from the TF-Labelling framework, covering compliance, maturity, feasibility and financing.

Place of production or supply market
The project produces in EU + EEA or supplies fuels serving the EU market, delivering clear European value.
Fuels compliance
Fuels qualify as renewable or low-carbon under ReFuelEU Aviation / FuelEU Maritime and EU sustainability rules.
Production location (plot)
A secured site or plot has been identified for the production facility.
Permits
Required environmental and construction permits are obtained or credibly underway.
Technological maturity (TRL)
The conversion technology has reached a Technology Readiness Level sufficient for deployment.
Development stage of project
The project is mature and advancing towards a final investment decision.
Feedstock security
Access to sustainable feedstock, or hydrogen and CO₂, is secured through agreements.
Project financing
A credible financing plan is in place, with committed or advanced funding.

RLCF - Labelling criteria

General publications
7 July 2026

How the label works

The labelling process follows a two-tier validation system within the Alliance. Every four months, the TF-Labelling and DG MOVE review project responses submitted via the online questionnaire. The TF-Labelling then recommends eligible projects for the label, with the Steering Group providing the final approval.

Step 1
Application
The project developer, owner or promoter completes the online application form.
Step 2
Assessment
Every four months, TF-Labelling and DG MOVE review the questionnaire responses.
Step 3
Recommendation
TF-Labelling recommends eligible projects that meet the framework and criteria.
Step 4
Final approval
The Steering Group provides the final approval and the label is awarded.
Step 5
Recognition
The project gains visibility, a trusted reference and access to support.

Why the label matters

Greater visibility
Labelled projects gain recognition, showcasing their attractiveness and EU value.
A trusted reference
A credible signal for investors, public authorities and offtakers.
Easier comparison
A common framework makes it easier to compare projects on a like-for-like basis.
Access to support
Improved access to technical assistance, such as support from the European Investment Bank (EIB).

Who can apply

To apply for the label, the project developer, owner or promoter completes the online application form.

If the applicant is not already an RLCF Alliance member, they will be invited to join the alliance by submitting a membership declaration.

Open the application form Become a member

Labelled projects

The first labelled projects arrive soon

The inaugural set of RLCF-labelled projects will be published here after the first evaluation round.

Awarding autumn 2026

Apply to be featured

The list of labelled projects is provided for information purposes only and does not represent the views or the official position of the European Commission.