Viva Energy has received $2.39 million in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to develop Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) infrastructure at its Pinkenba Terminal in Brisbane.
The project aims to support SAF supply to Brisbane Airport as part of efforts to reduce aviation emissions. The initiative is part of ARENA’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Funding Initiative and will contribute to the $4.93 million project cost.
Nick Adams, General Manager of Aviation at Viva Energy, said the funding is a significant milestone in supplying sustainable fuel to the aviation sector.
“By enhancing our SAF infrastructure, we are not only supporting the aviation industry’s transition to lower carbon emissions but also positioning Viva Energy as a leader in renewable energy solutions.”
SAF is made from renewable sources such as waste oils and agricultural residues. When blended with conventional jet fuel, it can significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions without requiring modifications to existing aircraft or fuel infrastructure.
The project will involve refurbishing a fuel storage tank at Pinkenba to create a dedicated SAF facility. The fuel will be transported via pipeline to Brisbane Airport, integrating SAF into existing fuel supply systems. A book-and-claim system will also be introduced, allowing customers to trade sustainability certificates and claim the environmental benefits of SAF without purchasing the physical fuel.
Darren Miller, CEO of ARENA, said the initiative is a step towards reducing aviation emissions.
“Aviation is a challenging industry from an emissions reduction perspective, with domestic flights currently accounting for approximately 2 per cent of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. This project is an important step towards developing opportunities to cut emissions from Australian skies.”
Raechel Paris, Executive General Manager of Brisbane Airport Corporation, welcomed the development.
“By making SAF available at Brisbane Airport, this project will support our airline customers and play a key role in helping the airport address its scope three emissions.”
Viva Energy plans to share learnings from the project to support SAF adoption across Australia, including in regional areas. The initiative is expected to help reduce barriers to domestic SAF production and strengthen partnerships in the aviation sector.
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