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India's Green Aviation Revolution: How Sustainable Fuel Could Transform Skies

India is positioned to become a global leader in sustainable aviation fuel production. The country has massive agricultural resources that can be converted into cleaner jet fuel. Government blending targets will drive adoption while creating rural jobs. This green transition could also position India as a major SAF exporter to premium international markets.

Key Points: India Set to Become Global Leader in Sustainable Aviation Fuel

  • India has over 680 MMT agricultural residue for SAF production
  • SAF can reduce aviation emissions by up to 80 percent
  • Government mandates 5% SAF blending by 2030
  • Potential to export SAF to EU, Japan and Middle East markets
2 min read

India poised to become global leader in sustainable aviation fuel: Report

India's abundant agricultural resources position it as future SAF leader, with blending targets and export potential to premium international markets.

"India's SAF journey will be built on the intelligent use of our abundant feedstock base - Vivek Rahi, KPMG India"

New Delhi, Nov 6

India's aviation market, the fifth-largest globally, is projected to become the third by 2030, and set to emerge as a global leader in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production, a report said on Thursday.

A report from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and KPMG said that with over 680 MMT of agricultural residue, 3.4 MMT of used cooking oil, and ethanol capacity exceeding 1,800 crore litres, India has the raw materials to scale SAF production

The report presents a strategic road map, highlighting the country's preparedness to scale SAF production, enhance rural incomes, boost greener fuel alternatives, and access international export markets.

SAF can reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 80 per cent, making it the most immediate and scalable decarbonisation lever for aviation, it said.

Further, the report mentioned the government-mandated blending targets of 1 per cent by 2027, 2 per cent by 2028 and 5 per cent by 2030.

The report emphasised the economic and ecological advantages, such as decreased fuel imports saving billions, job creation in green sectors, and enhanced income for rural communities.

India is well-positioned to supply SAF to premium markets like the EU, Japan, Singapore, and the Middle East, it added.

Anish De, Global Head, Energy Natural Resources & Chemicals, KPMG in India, emphasised the need for a coordinated systems approach that aligns policy, finance, technology, and offtake commitments.

"India's SAF journey will be built on the intelligent use of our abundant feedstock base - from agricultural residues and municipal solid waste to press-mud and used cooking oil," said Vivek Rahi, Partner and National Head - Oil & Gas, KPMG in India.

The key to success will be establishing viable supply chains and long-term offtake frameworks involving airlines, OMCs, and technology providers, he added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great initiative but I hope the government ensures proper implementation. We've seen many green projects fail due to poor execution. The supply chain infrastructure needs to be robust from day one.
A
Ananya R
As someone who works in agriculture, this could be a game-changer for farmers. Instead of burning crop residue, we can sell it for SAF production. Hope the pricing mechanism is fair for farmers. 🙏
V
Vikram M
The export potential to EU and other premium markets is exciting! This could position India as a green energy exporter while reducing our fuel import bill. Strategic move for energy security.
S
Sarah B
Wonderful to see India taking leadership in sustainable aviation. The 80% emissions reduction is significant. Hope this inspires other developing nations to follow similar paths.
K
Karthik V
The blending targets seem quite conservative - only 5% by 2030? Given our feedstock availability, we should aim higher. But it's a good start to build momentum. ✈️
M
Meera T
Using used cooking oil for aviation fuel? That's innovative thinking! This could create a whole new recycling ecosystem while making air travel more sustainable. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳

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