WA Renewable Fuel Project Advances

10 April 2025

Future Energy Australia (FEA) is pleased to provide an update on its Western Australian Future Energy Park, which continues to progress despite a change in site location. While the initial site will no longer be pursued, we remain fully committed to delivering this transformative initiative, with a new site selection expected in the coming months. The change in the site may also result in an increase in the economic, and environmental outcomes with the size of the project expected to increase by 50%, with renewable fuel produced increasing from 17 million to 25 million litres per annum.

FEA with its strong focus on stakeholder engagement and regional development, has built significant expertise in renewable fuel and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) project development. Our capabilities span across biomass sourcing and processing, technology design, permit approvals, offtake agreements, and project funding. This comprehensive approach positions us to scale our renewable fuel initiatives, initially across the state and eventually to other parts of Australia, driving sustainable growth and innovation in the sector.

Driving Regional Benefits through a Circular Economy

FEA’s Future Energy Parks will manufacture low-emission renewable fuel while producing valuable byproducts. The project supports a circular economy solution ensuring that local resources can enable regional manufacture of sustainable fuel and other value-added products in the form of biochar and wood vinegar, that aim to support land regeneration outcomes. According to an independent, ACIL Allen report, FEA’s project pipeline is expected to contribute to the following outcomes for WA alone:

Contribute over $20 billion over the project’s lifetimes

Create more than 1,000 regional jobs

Deliver significant emissions reductions

Additionally, FEA is actively supporting a range of innovative fuel technologies through project development, advisory, and funding capacities, to help ensure that Australia does not get left behind on the significant opportunities for renewable fuel adoption.

A Strong Future for Renewable Fuels in Australia

FEA Managing Director Jennifer Lauber Patterson highlighted the project’s impact:

“With 30 years in renewables and six years focused on fuels, this is the most transformative project I have worked on. It delivers economic benefits, regional jobs, and fuel security—critical for Australia’s future.”

FEA is advocating for federal regulatory support to accelerate industry growth, emphasising the need for a framework similar to policies in California and the UK, where 100% drop-in renewable fuel is already widely used.

Supporting Hard-to-Abate Sectors

FEA’s renewable fuel aims to provide a diesel replacement for industries including shipping, aviation, mining, transport, and agriculture, enabling businesses to reduce emissions without modifying equipment.

Not Without its Challenges

Bringing a renewable fuel industry to scale in Australia has not been without its challenges. Establishing new energy infrastructure, navigating evolving regulatory frameworks, and securing investment in an emerging market all require unwavering determination. However, these projects are simply too important not to make happen. The shift to renewable fuels is essential for reducing emissions, strengthening Australia’s fuel security, and creating sustainable economic opportunities—particularly in regional communities. Currently, Australia is importing it renewable fuel at price levels, well above the cost of production that can be possible in Australia.

Through resilience, agility and strong collaboration, FEA has been able to push forward. This would not have been possible without the commitment and support of key stakeholders, including local and state governments, industry partners, and community and business leaders, all of whom share our vision for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Acknowledging Key Supporters

FEA would like to provide special acknowledgement to the following:

WA Government, particularly the Clean Energy Future Fund ($2M) and Investment Attraction Fund ($4.7M)

Narrogin Shire, for their leadership, collaboration and commitment to regional growth

Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), for its guidance

Horizon Power, for commissioning the ACIL Allen report

For inquiries or renewable fuel offtake interest, contact ea@frontierimpact.com.au.