To achieve its net-zero goal by 2070, India is developing a new sustainable aviation fuel policy, setting an ambitious path toward sustainable aviation. India is creating a plan through 2050 in response to the tightening of international regulations on aviation emissions, primarily through the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). For international flights, this plan calls for blending targets of 1% by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030.

India is developing a new sustainable aviation fuel policy. It aims to become a global supplier of green aviation fuels, in addition to meeting domestic blending targets, by leveraging its extensive bio-energy capacity and alliances with companies such as ISMA, Deloitte, and TERI. High manufacturing costs, classification difficulties, and feedstock sustainability remain significant challenges that require resolution.

Why Does India Need a National SAF Policy?

One of the industries contributing to greenhouse gas emissions at the quickest rate of growth is aviation. India is developing a new sustainable aviation fuel policy, and it has become essential as India’s aviation sector grows. In addition to adhering to international regulations, this program aims to improve energy security and establish India as a player in the global green fuels market.

• Global Compliance: SAF blending is crucial as India must adhere to CORSIA regulations after 2027.
• Net-Zero Goal: India’s aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 is supported by a SAF policy, as aviation is a significant source of emissions.
• Energy Independence: National energy security is strengthened by lowering dependency on imported jet fuel.
• Export Potential: India can be positioned as a future center for SAF exports with a well-designed policy.
• Industry Alignment: Coordinates efforts across several ministries, including Finance, Renewable Energy, Civil Aviation, and Petroleum.

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What Are the Challenges in Scaling SAF Production?

India is developing a new sustainable aviation fuel policy, and its adoption is hampered by infrastructure, legislative deficiencies, and expense, despite its potential. Scaling is challenging due to high costs and classification obstacles, and securing a sustainable supply of feedstock is another urgent concern. India will require more research funding, improved incentives, and robust policy assistance to fulfill future demand.

• High Costs: Synthetic SAF can cost up to seven times as much as regular jet fuel, and SAF is three times more expensive.
• Classification Problems: Because SAF is still classified as a fossil fuel, it is not eligible for bioenergy subsidies such as the Gobardhan plan.
• Feedstock Dependency: Diversification is necessary to prevent conflicts between food and fuel due to the current reliance on sugarcane, molasses, and bagasse.
• Infrastructure Readiness: Networks for distribution, mixing, and storage must be upgraded quickly.
• Global Competition: India is still establishing standards for Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), while countries such as the US and Brazil already have them.

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How Will India Meet Its SAF Blending Targets?

India has established targets for progressive blending so that producers, regulators, and airlines can get ready for a seamless transition. The nation is confident of reaching its 2030 goal thanks to its robust ethanol production capability, government-supported initiatives, and private sector involvement.

Blending Roadmap:

• By 2027, 1%
• By 2028, 2%
• 5% by 2030 (assuming no other feedstock is utilized, this would require about 60 crore liters of ethanol).

Capacity Advantage:

• Installed ethanol capacity: 18.25 billion liters
• Pipeline expansion: 2.5 billion liters

Government Incentives:

• Interest-subvention program promoting the growth of the cooperative sector.

Private Sector Role:

• Indian Oil Corporation would use used cooking oil to generate 35,000 tonnes a year as part of the private sector.

Global Partnerships:

• ISMA-TERI Partnership for Life Cycle Assessment of Sugarcane-Based SAF.

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What Is the Economic and Environmental Potential of SAF?

SAF has the potential to be a key component of India’s energy and climate policy if it is appropriately expanded. It promises significant reductions in emissions, economic prospects, and advantages for international trade. Making production cost-effective requires striking a balance between technological innovation and investments.

• Investment Requirements: By FY40, an investment of Rs 6–7 lakh crore ($70–85 billion) is needed.
• Production Potential: By FY40, production could reach 8–10 million tonnes per year.
• Emission Reductions: 20–25 million tonnes of aircraft emissions per year could be reduced.
• Export Opportunities: Establish India as a SAF export hub for the region.
• Circular Economy Benefits: Include the production of high-value aviation fuel from waste oils, biomass, and leftover cooking oil.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What makes SAF more costly than traditional jet fuel?

Advanced production techniques, scarce feedstock, and undeveloped supply systems are all part of SAF. Even while regulatory incentives and economies of scale can lower costs, present prices are still three to seven times higher than those of fossil fuel jet fuel.

Q2. What are the differences between traditional and synthetic SAF?

• Conventional SAF: Made from agricultural leftovers, biomass, and waste oils.
• Synthetic SAF (Power-to-Liquid): Produced by utilizing renewable energy to combine carbon dioxide and water, this fuel is more costly but cleaner.

Q3. Is it feasible for India to reach its 2030 SAF blending goal of 5%?

Yes, it is possible to fulfill the 5% objective given India’s current ethanol capacity, future developments, and robust policy push. However, timely completion of international certification standards, cost reductions, and feedstock supply chains will be necessary for success.

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