What Are Biofuels in Australia?

What Are Biofuels in Australia?

Biofuels in Australia are gaining traction as a renewable alternative fuel to traditional fossil fuels like petrol and diesel. Derived from renewable materials such as vegetable and animal products, biofuels offer a more sustainable option for powering vehicles and reducing greenhouse gases. In Australia, the two main types of biofuels used in transport are ethanol and biodiesel. Let’s explore what biofuels are, their types, and the regulatory landscape surrounding their use in Australia.

About Biofuels

Biofuels made from renewable resources are a better choice than petrol and diesel, which come from non-renewable crude oil. The primary biofuels used in Australia are ethanol and biodiesel, both of which have distinct characteristics and applications.

Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP)

Ethanol blended petrol (EBP) is a mixture of unleaded petrol and ethanol. In Australia, the two most common types of EBP are E10 and E85.

• E10 Fuel: This fuel contains up to 10% ethanol blended with unleaded petrol. E10 is widely used across Australia and is compatible with most new and some older vehicle models. However, it is essential to check with the vehicle manufacturer to ensure compatibility. The owner’s manual and vehicle warranty often provide information on recommended fuels.
• E85 Fuel: Containing up to 85% ethanol, E85 is typically suitable only for purpose-built vehicles. Because of its high ethanol content, it is not as commonly used as E10.

To see which vehicle models can use E10 fuel, visit the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries website. They have a complete list available for reference.

Biodiesel

Biodiesel is another significant type of biofuel in Australia. It is made by blending diesel with fatty acids derived from vegetable oil or animal tallow. The most common blends are B5 and B20, which contain 5% and 20% biodiesel, respectively.

• B5 and B20: These blends are named according to the percentage of biodiesel they contain. Not all diesel cars can use biodiesel. Check with the car manufacturer to see if your car can run on biodiesel.

Laws and Regulations on Biofuels

In Australia, laws regulate the sale and quality of biofuels to make sure they are safe and work well.

• Mandated Sales: Some states have mandated the sale of biofuels. For instance, New South Wales required the use of biofuels in October 2007, and Queensland did the same in January 2017. These mandates require certain percentages of bio-based petrol and diesel to be sold in these states.
• Fuel Quality Standards: The Australian fuel industry must comply with legislative requirements for fuel quality. The government department oversees rules to make sure biofuels meet quality standards for the environment and water. For more details, see the regulations on Australian fuel quality.
• Fuel Pump Labeling: Fuel pumps dispensing ethanol blended petrol or diesel containing more than 5% biodiesel must be clearly labelled to indicate their contents. Always check the fuel pump label before filling up your vehicle to ensure you are using the correct fuel type.

The Role of ACCC in Biofuels

The ACCC keeps an eye on fuel prices in Australia. This includes unleaded petrol, diesel, and LPG across Australian capital cities and over 190 regional locations. The ACCC also keeps a close watch on the market for ethanol-blended petrol and biodiesel to ensure fair pricing and market practices.

Conclusion

Biofuels in Australia present a promising path towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. With ethanol and biodiesel leading the way, these renewable energy sources offer significant benefits over traditional fossil fuels. As regulations and mandates evolve, the use of biofuels will increase, contributing to a greener and more sustainable Australia.