20210531-世界经济论坛-Deploying_Sustainable_Aviation_Fuels_at_Scale_in_India_A_Clean_Skies_for_Tomorrow_Publication_62页_7mb

India's aviation sector is among the fastest-growing globally, with significant potential for decarbonization through sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). The goal is to transport 100 million passengers on a 10% SAF blend by 2030, requiring 360,000 tons of SAF. This initiative has broad support from industry leaders, policymakers, and civil society, positioning India as a model for global SAF deployment.

Key enablers include abundant bio-based feedstocks (e.g., used cooking oil, agricultural residues, municipal solid waste) and low-cost renewable energy. SAF offers substantial economic and social benefits: an estimated $2.8 billion in GDP growth, creation of over 120,000 green jobs, enhanced farmer incomes, improved waste management, and reduced air pollution. SAF production costs (2-5x higher than fossil fuels) can be bridged through policy support, blended finance, or user premiums.

Technology-wise, ASTM-approved pathways include Hydro-processed Esters & Fatty Acids (HEFA), Alcohol-to-Jet (AtJ), Gasification/Fischer-Tropsch (GAS-FT), and Power-to-Liquid (PtL). Feedstock availability is abundant, and India has the potential to produce up to 24 million tons of SAF annually by diversifying feedstock sources. SAF is a drop-in fuel requiring minimal infrastructure adjustments, with certification aligned to ICAO and ASTM standards.

Policy interventions—such as blending mandates, tax incentives, viability gap funding, and inclusion under the National Biofuel Policy by 2030—will be critical for scaling SAF. Implementation challenges require addressing feedstock collection, reducing costs through learning curves and economies of scale, and global cooperation. Initial action steps include targeting HEFA and AtJ pathways for pilot plants, using existing ethanol infrastructure for SAF conversion, and blending with OMCs and military fleets. For long-term decarbonization, India should foster PtL technology and explore circular economy applications for by-products.