1 Aug 2024
Malaysia is poised to become a key player in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, thanks to its rich supply of palm biomass and crude palm oil (CPO). The country generates about 95 million dry tonnes of palm biomass and 18 million tonnes of CPO and sludge palm oil each year. These resources are ideal for producing SAF, a crucial step towards reducing carbon emissions in aviation.
Unlocking the Potential of Palm-Based SAF
To turn palm biomass into SAF, several advanced technologies can be employed, including:
Gasification Fischer-Tropsch: Converts biomass into liquid fuels.
Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA): Transforms oils and fats into jet fuel.
Alcohol-to-Jet: Converts alcohols into jet fuel.
These technologies are essential for developing SAF from palm-based feedstocks, aligning with international standards like the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
Government and Industry Support
The Malaysian government, through the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and Bioeconomy Corp, is committed to advancing SAF production. They are focusing on both local and international partnerships to accelerate progress in the SAF sector.
With passenger numbers expected to surpass 100 million in 2024 and jet fuel usage reaching 8,900 tonnes per day at its peak in 2019, there is a clear need to scale up SAF production.
Commitments from Key Players
Boeing and Petronas are leading efforts to boost SAF production in Malaysia. Boeing aims for all its commercial airplanes to be 100% SAF-compatible by 2030 and is evaluating local SAF production opportunities. Petronas is investing in bio-based technology research, focusing on feedstock availability and readiness to support SAF development.
Looking Ahead
As Malaysia leverages its palm biomass resources and embraces new technologies, it is set to make a significant impact on the global SAF market. By enhancing SAF production, Malaysia will contribute to reducing aviation's carbon footprint and support the transition to a more sustainable future.
This exciting development highlights Malaysia's potential to lead in sustainable aviation fuel production, harnessing its natural resources and technological advancements for a greener aviation industry.
Source: BERNAMA