Sumitomo Joins Pongamia SAF Project in Queensland, Australia

Sumitomo has partnered with Idemitsu Kosan, Terviva, and Stanmore Resources in a pilot project focused on pongamia as a feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The project will utilize 50 hectares near Stanmore's coal mines in Queensland.

Pongamia, known for its high oil content and drought resistance, addresses sustainability concerns in biofuel production. This marks Sumitomo's initial foray into SAF feedstock production through its Energy Solutions division.

The company is already involved in energy initiatives in Australia, including gas developments and a proposed green hydrogen plant with J-Power in Latrobe Valley. Interest in pongamia cultivation is increasing in Australia, highlighted by Jet Zero's 10-hectare plantation and Rio Tinto's plan to plant 130,000 pongamia trees at its 2,250-hectare site near Townsville.