The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently released updated estimates for Sustainable Aviation Production (SAF). The revised estimates show that the growth of SAF is slower than expected. As per the IATA, the production reached 1 million tonnes in 2024. Although the number reflects twice the increase in SAF produced in 2023 (0.5 million tonnes), it falls short of the expected 1.5 million tonnes earlier predicted.

SAF Production and Global Impact

SAF currently represents just 0.3% of global jet fuel production and 11% of global renewable fuel. The slow growth has raised concerns within the aviation industry. IATA Director General Willie Walsh stressed the importance of for governments to phase out fossil fuel subsidies. He also called for policies that encourage renewable energy production including SAF.

He pointed out that although SAF volumes are growing, the progress is disappointingly slow. He also highlighted that the airline industry is ready to invest in SAF. However, he noted that investors need long term assurances before committing funds.

Also read: Southeast Asia to Supply 12% of Global SAF Demand by 2050, Study Shows

IATA’s Vision for Aviation Decarbonization

IATA stresses that decarbonizing aviation is part of the broader global energy transition. Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Sustainability, explained that renewable fuel refineries will produce multiple fuels for various industries. SAF will only account for a small portion of this production.

To meet the net-zero emissions goal by 2050, IATA predicts that 3,000 to 6,500 renewable fuel plants will be required. The plants that will be established will need annual investments of around $128 billion. In comparison to investments required for wind or solar energy, this amount is far less.

Also read: Trump Presidency Poses Challenges for SAF Industry

Key Measures for SAF Expansion

IATA has proposed three key measures to accelerate SAF production:

1. Increase Co-Processing: Expanding the use of renewable feedstocks at existing refineries could save up to $347 billion by 2050.
2. Diversify SAF Production: Scaling production using methods like Alcohol-to-Jet and Fischer-Tropsch could boost SAF volumes.
3. Create a Global SAF Accounting Framework: Establishing a registry would ensure transparent SAF purchases and prevent double-counting.

Avangrid, Inc., a member of the Iberdrola Group, announced the purchase of 130 new hybrid bucket trucks. This will span for over three years to support its Northeast utilities. Avangrid’s plan highlights its dedication to electrifying its fleet and embracing alternative energy sources, including electric, hybrid, and green fuels.

The hybrid vehicles, from two manufacturers, use diesel engines for driving and electric motors for bucket lifts, providing notable benefits. Benefits include improved safety, with engines off during power line work, reducing exhaust exposure and enhancing crew communication via quieter motors.

Also read: Avangrid and Portland General Electric Launch 120 MW Solar Project in Oregon

The design improves fuel efficiency by using the electric motor for the bucket lift and cabin comfort, minimizing diesel consumption. Using electric power for the lift reduces engine wear, enhancing reliability and extending the vehicles’ operational lifespan significantly over time.

Pedro Azagra, CEO of Avangrid, said, “It is important that Avangrid lives its values as a leading sustainable company and drives innovation across the business. In this case, we are expanding our use of new technologies that will make us more energy efficient.”

He added, “Hybrid vehicles will also improve the health and safety of our employees and the communities we serve, while preserving Avangrid’s ability to respond to emergencies in our service area and beyond.”

Also read: Avangrid’s Renewable Energy Efforts Lead to Significant Reduction in CO2 Emissions

Exploring Additional Sustainable Alternatives

Avangrid is also advancing other environmentally friendly technologies within its fleet. For instance, Avangrid already uses renewable diesel, derived from plant materials, in its Lancaster, New York, service area vehicles. The company plans to increase its use of green fuels in its hybrid vehicles.

The company aims to switch 60 percent of its heavy-duty fleet to alternative energy sources by 2030, meeting its sustainability goals.