Ampol Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Japanese energy company ENEOS to conduct a feasibility study that would determine the viability of an advanced biofuel manufacturing plant in Brisbane.
The proposed Lytton refinery site will have the capacity to generate up to 500 million litres of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel annually.
According to the Queensland Government, SAF can be used in existing aircraft engines to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80 per cent.
Initial work on the project will include studying potential feedstock sources and how existing refinery infrastructure can be used both in domestic and export markets.
The announcement comes after the State Government brought together industry players in November 2022 to discuss how to accelerate the production of green jet fuels.
“This project has the potential to unlock significant benefits for our economy by generating good, skilled jobs and opening export opportunities in a new industry,” Deputy Premier Steven Miles said.
Deputy Premier Miles stated that the initiative is another exciting step towards Queensland’s transition into a clean energy powerhouse. According to Deputy Premier Miles, the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan lays out the State’s strategy for achieving a low-carbon future. As part of the decarbonisation effort, he said the government is seeking to position Queensland as a leader in the development of green jet fuels.
He added that Queensland’s supply of feedstock and manufacturing capabilities would help the companies as they work to meet the increasing demand for low-carbon aviation fuel.
“The Queensland Government’s plan is to establish SAF refineries across the state and position ourselves as one of the world’s best SAF suppliers,” he explained.
Ampol Managing Director and CEO Matt Halliday underlined Ampol’s eagerness to collaborate with ENEOS to further explore prospects to repurpose Ampol’s existing infrastructure and establish new supply chains.
ENEOS Representative Director Saito Takeshi stated Ampol’s existing manufacturing and distribution infrastructure would provide a platform for the companies to further expand SAF production capabilities.
“We are honoured to work with an excellent company like Ampol to jointly consider the best way for SAF production by together bringing the best out of Australia’s SAF production potential,” Takeshi added.
