Energy company Zero Petroleum will explore the development of a commercial-scale low-carbon sustainable aviation fuel production plant, Plant Zero.SA, in Whyalla.
The leading producer of synthetic fuel is undertaking a feasibility study which includes collaboration with an aviation industry consortium led by Adelaide Airport and Qantas Airways. The State Government will also support the project, having today signed a Letter of Intent to provide support to the feasibility study in a facilitating role.
“South Australia’s leadership in renewable energy and renewable hydrogen production makes the state an ideal location for advancing e-fuel innovation,” said minister for Infrastructure and Transport Minister for Energy and Mining Tom Koutsantonis.
“Hydrogen is a game-changer for industries striving to decarbonise, and aviation is no exception. By fostering innovative projects such as this and collaborating with major partners such as Zero Petroleum, Qantas and Adelaide Airport, we can drive the transition to sustainable fuels.”
Whyalla is at the epicentre of the State Government’s State Prosperity Project, which will see the construction of a world-leading renewable hydrogen facility.
This facility has the potential to position the Upper Spencer Gulf as a hub for emerging industries that will leverage hydrogen production at scale, helping to reduce emissions.
Synthetic fuels, or e-fuels, are created by combining renewable hydrogen with carbon dioxide to produce a low carbon fuel compatible with existing aircraft, road vehicles and maritime applications.
Sustainable fuels are the key means for airlines to reduce emissions and will be critical to achieving the industry’s goal of net zero by 2050.
The six-month feasibility project will evaluate the technical, economic and environmental viability of a facility capable of producing up to 10 million litres of synthetic aviation fuel, gasoline and diesel annually.
The project has the potential to create up to 150 full-time-equivalent jobs during the construction phase, spanning engineering, technical and trade roles, with 25 to 30 ongoing operational positions.