Currently non-existent, a local SAF industry could be worth $3 billion by 2030. SAF is expected to be a key element in commercial aviation reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 – which means it’ll also play a critical indirect role in the business events industry reaching the same goal.
The Queensland Government has recently announced funding for three potential SAF production projects as well as working with Ampol on the possible production of SAF at an existing refinery.
A facility near Emerald in Central Queensland is being set up to crush seeds, with a view to producing Pongamia oil in future, which can be used as a feedstock for SAF.
“Energreen’s new multi oilseed crushing facility will process oilseeds for the dual purposes of producing edible oils and bio-fuel feedstock,” said Energreen’s director, Gary Seaton.
“Energreen is working closely with local farmers and plant breeders to rejuvenate the oilseeds industry in Queensland. These oilseeds include cottonseed, sunflower seed, soybeans, and canola seeds.
“Our ongoing Pongamia trial is a key component of our strategy to integrate SAF into our operations. The trial’s success will pave the way for large-scale SAF production, supporting the aviation industry’s transition to more sustainable fuel sources.”
The state government has also provided a total of $1.52 million to Wagner Sustainable Fuels and Liquid Power to support feasibility studies for each company to produce SAF proposals.
Queensland’s first biofuel refinery was also supported by the Queensland Government, to the tune of $760,000 for its feasibility study. The project from Jet Zero subsequently received funding from Qantas and Airbus and is now going ahead in Townsville.
“I am proud to see us pioneering practical solutions that promise a cleaner, greener aviation future, while delivering significant economic benefits for Queenslanders,” said Queensland’s state development and infrastructure minister, Grace Grace.
“The Miles Government can play a key role in supporting emerging industries like biofuels to secure early stage investment from the private sector.
“Growing our SAF industry will not only contribute to decarbonisation targets, but it will also create more good jobs, especially in Queensland’s regions.
“We are well on the way to establishing Queensland as a green jet fuel hub for the Asia Pacific region.”
