Workshop sharpens path for WA biofuels R&D
A clearer picture is emerging of where research can make the greatest difference in developing Western Australia’s biofuels and bio-based industries.
At the centre of that work is the Biofuel and Bio-based R&D Investment Framework and Opportunity Map, developed by Spiegare Pty Ltd on behalf of WAARC, to identify where research, demonstration and coordination could have the greatest impact.
The work will contribute to the broader Advanced Biofuels Strategy being led by Kerrie House at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
In September, Spiegare Managing Director Cameron Begley and Lead Business Development Consultant Dr Faisal Younus facilitated a stakeholder workshop bringing together industry, government, researchers and end-users to test and refine the draft framework and opportunity map.
Rather than identifying one preferred fuel, feedstock or technology, the workshop reinforced the need to consider the full system, including agricultural production, regional logistics, processing, environmental performance, markets and investment.
“While the workshops and report focused on the R&D opportunities relevant to WA, with ongoing fuel security challenges for WA agriculture (and industry generally), the near-term opportunities for local conversion of feedstock to renewable fuels should bear some consideration,” Mr Begley said.
“WA has an opportunity to move towards liquid fuel self-sufficiency through the establishment and sustainable expansion of feedstock and fuel production industry.
“Servicing current export demand is a foundation to be built upon in the coming years.”
The Perth Workshop Feedback Synthesis is now available, capturing participant feedback, voting signals and recommended refinements to the research priorities.