IATA announces a significant leap forward in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) production, with expectations to triple output in 2024.
“The interest in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is increasing, and there is significant potential. However, the concrete plans we have seen are not yet sufficient. Governments have set clear expectations for the aviation industry to achieve a 5% reduction in CO2 emissions through SAF by 2030 and to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. They now need to implement policies to ensure airlines can actually purchase SAF in the necessary quantities,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
There are several potential solutions to accelerate aviation’s access to crucial SAF quantities.
Diversify feedstocks: About 80% of SAF expected to be produced in the next five years will likely come from hydrogenated fatty acids (HEFA) such as used cooking oils and animal fats. Increasing the use of other certified pathways and feedstocks (including agricultural and forestry residues and municipal waste) will significantly expand the potential for SAF production.
Co-processing: Existing refineries can be used to co-process up to 5% of approved renewable feedstocks alongside crude oil streams. This solution can be quickly implemented and substantially increase SAF production. However, policies must be urgently introduced to facilitate consistent life-cycle assessments.
Incentives to improve the output mix at renewable fuel facilities: Current renewable fuel facilities are designed to maximise diesel production and often benefit from incentives and the long-standing demand from road transportation. As road transport transitions to electrification, policies should be created to shift production towards the long-term need for SAF in air transport. Incentives focused on SAF can help facilitate the switch from renewable diesel to SAF, requiring minimal modifications at existing stand-alone renewable fuel facilities.
Incentives to boost investments in renewable fuel production: The production of all renewable fuels needs to scale up rapidly, with a growing share required for SAF production. This will necessitate strong policy support. One clearly articulated policy is the US Grand Challenge, which supports $3 billion of investments. Stable, long-term tax credits would further maximise SAF production capability in both existing and new facilities.
Public and Industry Support Key to Advancing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Adoption
“Incentives to build more renewable energy facilities, strengthen the feedstock supply chain, and allocate a greater portion of renewable fuel output to aviation would help decarbonise the sector. Governments can also facilitate technical solutions with accelerated approvals for diverse feedstocks and production methods, as well as co-processing renewable feedstocks in crude oil plants. No single policy or strategy will achieve the required levels. However, by combining all potential policy measures, producing sufficient quantities of SAF is entirely possible,” said Walsh.
A recent IATA survey revealed significant public support for SAF. Approximately 86% of travellers agreed that governments should provide incentives for airlines to use SAF. Additionally, the vast majority of air passengers (86%) agree that leading oil corporations should prioritise the production of SAF.