Published

2 years ago

December 18, 2023

Alice Rush

Sustainable Energy

Sustainable Aviation Fuel

4 minutes read

Introduction for Exploring New Feedstocks of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

The aviation industry plays a significant role in global transportation, connecting people and goods across the world. However, the environmental impact of aviation, particularly its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, has become a growing concern.

In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to find sustainable alternatives to traditional jet fuels, leading to the emergence of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

SAF offers a promising solution to mitigate the environmental impact of aviation by reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. While SAF production initially relied on conventional feedstocks such as vegetable oils and animal fats, there is a growing interest in exploring new feedstocks that can further enhance the sustainability and scalability of SAF production.

By examining innovative and diverse sources, we aim to shed light on the latest developments in SAF production and their potential to revolutionize the aviation industry. From algae-based feedstocks to municipal solid waste, carbon capture and utilization to waste vegetable oil, and lignocellulosic biomass, we will delve into each feedstock’s characteristics, advantages, and potential environmental benefits.

By venturing beyond traditional feedstocks, researchers and industry experts are unlocking new pathways to produce SAF sustainably and efficiently. These alternative feedstocks offer the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize land use conflicts, promote waste management practices, and contribute to a more circular and sustainable aviation sector.

As we delve into the exploration of these new feedstocks, we aim to provide valuable insights into their feasibility, scalability, and environmental impact. By understanding the potential of these emerging feedstocks, we can pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future for aviation while addressing the urgent need to combat climate change.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Feedstock

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is gaining significant attention as a viable solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the aviation industry. As the demand for air travel continues to rise, it becomes crucial to explore new feedstocks for the production of SAF. In this article, we will discuss some of the emerging feedstocks that show promising potential for the future of sustainable aviation.

Algae-Based Feedstocks

Algae are microscopic plants that can convert sunlight and carbon dioxide into energy through photosynthesis. They have high lipid content, making them a suitable feedstock for SAF production. Algae can be cultivated in various environments, including saltwater ponds, which minimizes the need for arable land and freshwater resources. Algae-based SAF offers the advantage of scalability, reduced land use, and potentially higher oil yields compared to traditional crops.

Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)

Converting municipal solid waste, such as food scraps and yard waste, into SAF is an innovative solution to address waste management and reduce carbon emissions simultaneously. Through various processes like gasification and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, MSW can be converted into a synthetic gas, which can then be transformed into a sustainable aviation fuel. This approach not only reduces landfill waste but also promotes the circular economy by utilizing waste as a valuable resource.

Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU)

CCU involves capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial sources and utilizing them as a feedstock for SAF production. By using CO2 as a raw material, this process helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. Several technologies, including direct air capture and bioenergy with carbon capture and storage, are being explored to capture and utilize CO2 in the production of SAF.

Waste Vegetable Oil (WVO):

Waste vegetable oil, derived from cooking oils used in restaurants and food processing facilities, can be processed and converted into sustainable aviation fuel. By repurposing waste oils that would otherwise end up in landfills or cause environmental issues, WVO-based SAF reduces the reliance on fossil fuels and provides a more environmentally friendly alternative. This feedstock has the advantage of being readily available and offers a closed-loop solution for waste management.

Lignocellulosic Biomass

Lignocellulosic biomass, such as agricultural residues, forest residues, and dedicated energy crops, holds promise as a feedstock for SAF production. These feedstocks are rich in cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which can be converted into biofuels through biochemical or thermochemical processes. Utilizing lignocellulosic biomass reduces competition with food crops and can be grown on marginal lands, thereby avoiding land-use conflicts.

Fact and data for New Feedstocks of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Here are some facts and data regarding new feedstocks for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF):

Algae-Based Feedstocks:

Algae can produce up to 15 times more oil per acre compared to traditional oilseed crops like soybeans.

Algae-based SAF has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.

The global production capacity of algae-based biofuels is projected to reach 6 billion gallons per year by 2030, according to a report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Municipal Solid Waste (MSW):

According to the World Bank, over 2 billion metric tons of solid waste are generated annually worldwide.

Converting MSW into SAF can help reduce landfill waste and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) estimates that SAF produced from MSW could potentially supply up to 175 billion liters (46 billion gallons) of jet fuel per year by 2050.

Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU):

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) suggests that CCU technologies could contribute to reducing CO2 emissions by up to 20% by 2050.

The Global CCS Institute reports that there are over 65 CCU projects around the world, with potential applications in SAF production.

CCU technologies can capture CO2 emissions from industrial sources, preventing them from being released into the atmosphere, and utilize them as a feedstock for SAF.

Waste Vegetable Oil (WVO):

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 3 billion gallons of waste cooking oil are generated in the U.S. each year.

Conversion of WVO into SAF can help reduce carbon emissions and decrease dependence on fossil fuels.

A study published in the journal Energy Policy estimates that WVO-based SAF could reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.

Lignocellulosic Biomass:

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that the potential annual supply of lignocellulosic biomass in the U.S. is approximately 1.3 billion tons.

The use of lignocellulosic biomass for SAF production can help reduce deforestation and promote sustainable land use practices.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), lignocellulosic biofuels have the potential to supply up to 26% of total transportation fuel by 2050.

These facts and data highlight the potential of these new feedstocks to contribute to the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel, reducing carbon emissions and promoting a more sustainable aviation industry.

Conclusion for New Feedstocks of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

The development of new feedstocks for Sustainable Aviation Fuel is crucial to mitigate the environmental impact of the aviation industry.

Algae-based feedstocks, municipal solid waste, carbon capture and utilization, waste vegetable oil, and lignocellulosic biomass are just a few examples of the innovative solutions being explored. By diversifying feedstock sources, we can ensure a sustainable and low-carbon future for aviation. Continued research and investment in these emerging feedstocks will play a pivotal role in achieving a greener aviation sector and combating climate change.

The exploration of new feedstocks for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) holds immense promise for revolutionizing the aviation industry’s environmental impact. As we have delved into the realm of alternative feedstocks, it becomes evident that innovation and diversification are key to achieving a sustainable and low-carbon future for aviation.

The emergence of feedstocks such as algae-based sources, municipal solid waste, carbon capture and utilization, waste vegetable oil, and lignocellulosic biomass showcases the vast potential for SAF production beyond conventional feedstocks. Each of these feedstocks brings unique advantages, whether it’s the scalability and high oil yields of algae, the circular economy benefits of utilizing municipal solid waste, or the reduction of carbon emissions through carbon capture and utilization.

By exploring these new feedstocks, we can address multiple challenges simultaneously. We can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, promote sustainable land use practices, and contribute to waste management and circular economy initiatives.

However, the journey towards widespread adoption of these new feedstocks is not without its challenges. Technical feasibility, economic viability, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure development are all critical factors that need to be addressed for successful integration of these feedstocks into SAF production.

Continued research, innovation, and collaboration among industry stakeholders, governments, and research institutions are essential in furthering the development of these feedstocks. Investment in research and development, pilot projects, and scaling up production facilities will be pivotal in realizing the full potential of these alternative feedstocks.

As we conclude our exploration of new feedstocks for SAF, it is clear that they offer a path towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly aviation industry. By embracing these innovative feedstocks, we can reduce the carbon footprint of aviation, mitigate climate change, and pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for air travel.

The journey towards sustainable aviation is ongoing, and the discovery and utilization of new feedstocks will continue to play a vital role in achieving this vision. With a collective effort and commitment, we can transform the aviation industry into a global leader in sustainability, making air travel a catalyst for positive change while ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

https://www.exaputra.com/2023/05/exploring-new-feedstocks-of-sustainable.html

Related Topics:Exploring New Feedstocks Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Up Next

Society’s Loss of Its Capacity to Think

Don't Miss

Meta Signs with Adapture for 330 MW from In-Development Illinois, Arkansas Projects

Alice Rush

Renewable Energy

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Published

22 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Renewable Energy

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.

However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.

But what are the main issues?

Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.

That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!

By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.

This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.

So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.

In this blog post:

Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!

From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.

Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.

Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:

In many Victorian households, the ducted
gas heater is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs.
The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
options.
The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
outdoor unit
with multiple indoor units for different zones.

Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path

It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.

So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:

Choosing the right system

For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:

One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units

One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and

One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.

Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
consumption.

However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility.

Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater

As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.

This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.

Installation Process & Timing Period

Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.

The quote needs to be accepted and dated.

Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
appliance.

The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping.

The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.

The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.

Choosing efficiency over just cooling

Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.

Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.

At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:

“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”

Out-of-pocket and rebate

Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.

In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.

The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.

So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.

How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.

Before we discuss how
the rebate works, here are the eligibility criteria.

So, to qualify under the VEU program:

The property must be more than two years old.
The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
provider.

How the Rebate Works

In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.

After installation:

The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.

The homeowner simply has to:

Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.

The Result

The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.

Why is the VEU rebate significant?

Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:

On average, households that upgrade
can save between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.

Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.

Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.

Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!

Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.

Before Adding Air Conditioning System

Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620.
In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300.
Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920

After Adding the Air Conditioning System

Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
decrease in heating electricity costs.

Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.

In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
$180.
So, the annual heating
and cooling cost is approximately $460.

Net Savings

Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.

At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.

However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.

This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.

Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program

Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.

Don’t wait until your system dies.

Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
failing, you
may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.

Choose a provider who handles the rebates.

Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
compliance, and
installation. So look for an accredited provider.

Understand the actual savings potential.

It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
heat and
cool.

Ensure proper sizing and zone control.

As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
units or
whole-home heating can reduce savings.

Factor in non-energy benefits.

Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
standing
charges, less
maintenance, and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.

Check the accreditation and compliance.

With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
through.

So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
documentation is completed appropriately.

Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
costs.

This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
rebate is
not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.

Monitor your bills after installation.

Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
indicate
whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.

Be realistic about pay-back

Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
or two
years (unless you have extreme usage).

However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
possible,
depending on usage.

Final Notes

This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.

This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.

The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.

This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:

Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.
Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.

So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!

Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? appeared first on Cyanergy.

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Renewable Energy

Air Power

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air. I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.

“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?” End of conversation.

Now, it’s back. Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.

If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity. They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.