With support from the International PtX Hub, the Indo-German Energy Forum (IGEF-SO) organised a webinar on 15 November, 2023, to introduce and provide insights into the "Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and Sustainable Maritime Fuels (SMF) Stakeholder Mapping and Survey. The webinar drew approximately 60 participants from industry, academia, research organisations, consultancy, and the public sector.  

Mr. Kumar Abhishek, Energy Advisor, IGEF-SO, initiated the webinar by providing a brief overview of the SAF/SMF sector and its importance in the decarbonisation efforts of typically hard-to-abate aviation and maritime sectors. He also outlined global developments on the topic. 

Mr. Heino von Meyer, Head, Sustainability and Global Relations, PtX Hub, Germany, highlighted the importance of SAF/SMF and the opportunities it offers for transitioning India and the world into carbon-neutrality within the aviation and marine sectors. Acknowledging the efforts of Dornier Group, Mr. Meyer emphasised that this study, being first of its kind in India, serves as a valuable guide for newcomers in the sector, requiring both policy support and government assistance to progress. The study captures developments in India and identifies key stakeholders whose synergies are essential for sector growth. 

Mr. Arun Sarna, MD & CEO, and Mr. Chandan Mishra, Manager, both from Dornier Group India, presented the stakeholder mapping and survey study, highlighting crucial aspects of the efforts required to promote SAF/SMF. The study offered a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and potential pathways for the successful integration of Sustainable Aviation and Marine Fuels in India. Given the expected 17% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) demand, the decarbonisation of these industries becomes imperative to meet net-zero targets by 2070. India's favourable position with lower green energy costs, abundant feedstock, and potential for employment generation and exports adds to the significance of this transition. 

The survey unveiled key insights, including increased awareness among stakeholders, government promotion of public-private partnerships, and the identification of key drivers, priorities, and challenges. Significant policy incentives from the Government of India, such as the Green Hydrogen/Green Ammonia Policy and the National Policy on Biofuels, were highlighted, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a sustainable energy landscape. Recommendations to accelerate SAF/SMF adoption included government support for research, grants, concessions, recognition under carbon credits, and mandates for increasing usage trajectories. The importance of certification processes, sustainability standards, and collaborations were also emphasised for a holistic approach. 

The outputs of the study and the presentation can be accessed here-

Report on SAF/SMF Stakeholder Mapping and Survey 

Presentation on SAF/SMF Stakeholder Mapping and Survey