News

Energy company Zero Petroleum will explore the development of a low-carbon sustainable aviation fuel production facility in Whyalla, with the support of the State Government and industry.

Zero Petroleum, a leading producer of synthetic fuel, is exploring the opportunity for a commercial-scale production plant - Plant Zero.SA - to be located in South Australia’s Upper Spencer Gulf.

It is undertaking a feasibility study which includes collaboration with an aviation industry consortium led by Adelaide Airport and Qantas Airways.

The State Government today signed a Letter of Intent to provide support to the feasibility study in a facilitating role.

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, positioning the Upper Spencer Gulf as a hub for emerging industries that will leverage hydrogen production at scale, helping to significantly 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.

This initiative would support the aviation industry’s global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and reinforce South Australia’s efforts as a global leader in the low-carbon transition while driving innovation and economic growth in sustainable industries.