New South Wales initiates development of new renewable fuels strategy

The New South Wales (NSW) government announced on August 2 the development of a new renewable fuels strategy for the state, beginning with the release of a discussion paper.

Renewable fuels, including biomethane, sustainable aviation fuel, and biodiesel, are vital for achieving NSW’s emission reduction targets for 2030 and 2050, it said. Produced through sustainable processes, these fuels serve as long-term replacements for fossil fuels in hard-to-abate sectors and offer short-term decarbonisation solutions.

Key sectors such as aviation, manufacturing, and heavy road transport, which face significant barriers to electrification, will benefit from these renewable alternatives.

The new strategy will build on the existing NSW Hydrogen Strategy, continuing support for hydrogen as a long-term abatement solution while expanding the focus to include other renewable fuels for short- and medium-term emission reductions.

The "Opportunities for a Renewable Fuel Industry in NSW" discussion paper, open for consultation from August 2 to August 30, 2024, seeks feedback on actions to support renewable fuels in the state. Areas for input include infrastructure support, methods to drive demand and accelerate supply, and ways to ensure NSW communities benefit from this emerging industry.