In a significant move for the future of low-emission fuels in Australia, Technip Energies has been awarded the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) contract for Jet Zero Australia’s landmark Project Ulysses — a commercial-scale bioethanol-to-Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel facility planned for Townsville, Queensland.
Project Ulysses - Details
Project Ulysses is positioned to become the first alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) SAF plant in Australia, targeting the production of 102 million litres of SAF and 11 million litres of renewable diesel per year by 2028.
Named after North Queensland’s iconic Ulysses butterfly, the initiative stands as more than a technological breakthrough—it reflects a national ambition to lead in sustainable transport fuels and to develop resilient, forward-looking infrastructure.
The facility will rely on locally sourced bioethanol, derived from agricultural by-products, and will integrate advanced technologies from Technip Energies and LanzaJet. With feasibility studies completed, key partnerships secured, and financing in place, Jet Zero has laid the groundwork for delivery.
Technip Energies as the FEED Contractor
The FEED phase will deliver the detailed engineering, cost estimation, and project planning necessary to support the transition into construction and execution. While specific figures have not yet been disclosed, a Final Investment Decision (FID) is anticipated within the next 12 to 18 months, with a notice to proceed for construction expected to follow shortly thereafter.
Technip Energies is bringing to the table its proprietary Hummingbird® technology, which converts bioethanol into sustainable ethylene. This is combined with LanzaJet’s alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) process, a proven solution for transforming ethanol into SAF.
Sylvain Cabalery, Senior Vice President for Sustainable Fuels, Chemicals & Circularity at Technip Energies, commented:
“We are very pleased to see Project Ulysses moving forward to provide the first alcohol-to-jet SAF plant in Australia. With the global aviation industry looking for ways to further secure their supply and lower emissions, Technip Energies and LanzaJet integrated technology is a smart solution, bringing energy security while at the same time eliminating up to 70% of greenhouse gas emissions.”
Suggested Reading: Front-end engineering design (FEED): What is It and How it Works?
Project Ulysses - Strategic Significance
Located in the Townsville State Development Area (SDA), the project is expected to deliver significant regional benefits. Once operational, Project Ulysses is forecast to directly generate 1,000 construction jobs and over 100 permanent operational roles in the region. The flow-on effects across supply chains are anticipated to benefit multiple domestic industries including agriculture, aviation, logistics, energy, and defence.
The strategic importance of the project extends beyond economic gains. Project Ulysses will support Queensland’s aspirations to lead the Asia-Pacific in renewable fuels. It is expected to:
Cut jet fuel emissions by approximately 65% compared to traditional fossil fuels
Fulfil nearly one-sixth of the domestic airline industry’s 2030 SAF targets
Strengthen Townsville’s position as a renewable energy hub
Enhance fuel security for the Australian Defence Force in Northern Australia
Provide renewable diesel for key industries such as mining, reef tourism, and heavy transport
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