Episode 1174: PODCAST: Synthetic fuels poised to lead decarbonisation of transport sector - Zero Petroleum CEO Paddy Lowe

LONDON (ICIS)—Synthetic fuels, also known as e-fuels, are derived from renewable electricity, air and water. The power-to-liquid process entails chemical conversion of energy. 

In this latest podcast, markets editor Nazif Nazmul interviews Paddy Lowe, CEO and founder of the synthetic fuels producing company Zero Petroleum. 

Synthetic fuels can play a vital role in slashing emissions across the transport sector in the coming years, although the road to scaling up is fraught with obstacles and opportunities. 

• Energy density of synthetic fuels and compatibility with international combustion engine (ICE) vehicles could provide a long-term decarbonisation alternative to electric vehicles (EVs) and biofuels
• Rail, marine, aviation, agricultural sectors can utilise synthetic fuels alongside road transport 
• Synthetic fuels gaining traction in the aviation industry in the form of e-SAF
• Achieving cost parity with fossil-based gasoline will still take approximately 10 more years
• Legislative support likely to expedite time needed to achieve economies of scale  
• Production process reliant on sourcing vast amount of renewable energy