Ampol, an Australian fuel supplier, has announced plans to explore the production of up to 500 million litres of biofuels at Queensland’s Lytton oil refinery to help reduce emissions in the aviation sector and heavy industry.
The company has partnered with Japanese oil refiner Eneos to assess the feasibility of building an advanced-biofuels manufacturing plant to produce sustainable aviation fuels and renewable diesel. Initially, the two companies will look into using agricultural, animal, and other waste feedstocks to produce biofuels for domestic consumption and exports.
The move is part of Ampol’s commitment to supporting the development of a biofuels value chain and partnering with like-minded organizations to drive innovation in the future of energy.
The aviation industry is a significant contributor to climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions from burning oil-based jet fuel. However, biofuels can achieve significant emissions cuts without major changes to aircraft engines or airport infrastructure.
Airlines are increasingly investing in biofuel production and usage, with national carrier Qantas committing to transitioning to 10% sustainable aviation fuel by 2030 and 60% by 2050.
Despite the potential benefits of biofuels, aviation authorities currently only allow a 50-50 mix with conventional jet fuel, and aircraft manufacturers like Airbus are exploring other decarbonization options for air travel, including zero-emissions hydrogen.
For the latest retailer news and information, check out the ServoPro website or to speak to us on how we can help your business contact us.