The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has recommended the repurposing of an old oil refinery for biofuel production, citing brownfield sites as environmentally friendly practices, and has recommended approval for BP‘s Kwinana Renewable Fuels Project under strict conditions.
EPA Chair Professor Matthew Tonts said the proposal to redevelop the proponent’s hydrocarbon refining and production infrastructure would enable the processing of vegetable oils, animal fats, and biowaste products to produce up to 1600 cubic meters of biofuel feedstock daily.
“Using a previously disturbed footprint within an industrial area means no clearing of vegetation is required. The proponent’s site selection leverages the use of existing pipeline, jetty and tank infrastructure for new operations,” Professor Tonts stated.
Professor Tonts emphasised the need for a comprehensive environmental assessment to assess the proposal’s impact on climate change due to greenhouse gas emissions.
While BP Refinery (Kwinana) Pty Ltd proposed a linear path to net zero emissions by 2050, Professor Tonts stated that the EPA had set strict conditions to provide continued certainty that reductions could be accomplished.
“The EPA notes the proposed emissions reduction trajectory will mitigate approximately 1,449,000 t CO2-e of Scope 1 emissions over the 20-year life of the proposal. These reductions are considered reasonably achievable through adoption of emerging technology and the use of offsets,” he added.
The EPA’s report to the Minister for Environment is open for public appeal until 23 January 2024, with the final decision to be made by the Minister.
