News
Calls Grow for Biodiesel Use Amidst High Fuel Prices in Australia
Amidst rising fuel costs and geopolitical tensions impacting supply, there are increasing calls for greater biodiesel availability in Australia. However, most modern vehicles in Australia cannot use high biodiesel blends, and the Australian industry faces hurdles such as taxation and lack of government support.
Amidst rising fuel costs and geopolitical tensions impacting supply, some are advocating for biodiesel as a solution in Australia, according to ABC News. Biodiesel can be produced from various sources, including used oil, vegetable oil, algae, and organic waste. Two decades ago, biodiesel was considered a significant part of the transition away from fossil fuels due to its ease of manufacturing. The Australian government permits up to a five per cent biodiesel blend. However, most modern vehicles sold in Australia can't run on more than negligible biodiesel blends. Taxation and limited government support caused the local industry to largely disappear, while cheap imported diesel further disincentivized domestic production.
Key Facts
- High fuel prices and Middle East conflicts have spurred calls for biodiesel use in Australia.
- Most modern Australian vehicles cannot use high blends of biodiesel.
- The Australian government allows up to a five per cent biodiesel blend.
- Lack of government support and taxation hampered the Australian biodiesel industry.
- Indonesia is expected to move to a 50 per cent biodiesel blend this year.
- The Philippines is considering a move to a seven per cent biodiesel blend.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- 7NEWS.com.au — Voices grow for biodiesel use, but technology has moved on