HAMR Energy to build methanol-to-jet fuel facility in SA

Two men in suits stand underneath a Qantas jet in a hanger
HAMR Energy co-founders David Stribley and Alex Smith (Image: HAMR Energy)

Low carbon liquid fuels company HAMR Energy will build its $700-800 million sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production facility in South Australia after receiving backing from the state government.

The project will be the first-of-its kind in Australia, utilising global engineering firm Honeywell’s world-leading technology and site selection is a key part of HAMR Energy’s strategy to produce SAF to decarbonise air travel and create hundreds of jobs in the region.

Related article: Sustainable aviation fuels prepare for take-off in Australia

HAMR Energy is now undertaking due diligence on sites suitable for major industrial developments with the support for the South Australian Government.

When operational, the facility will convert 300,000 tonnes of low carbon methanol, made from plantation forestry residues and hydrogen, into approximately 140 million litres of SAF—enough to decarbonise around 4.5 million economy-class passenger trips between Adelaide and Melbourne each year.

Plantation forestry residues from the Green Triangle, centred around Mount Gambier, will be converted into fuel by HAMR Energy after it signed supply agreements with local sustainable forestry firms including OneFortyOne.

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HAMR Energy co-founder David Stribley said, “We are proud to be strengthening fuel security for the nation, while contributing to the South Australian economy and creating local jobs.

“Selecting South Australia as the home for our large scale SAF facility is a strategic decision that builds on our investment in Victoria. The state’s world-class infrastructure, commitment to clean energy, and proximity to sustainable feedstock sources make it an excellent location to accelerate decarbonisation in aviation.”

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