A five-year agreement between SuperChar Limited and Rio Tinto marks an important step towards introducing renewable, plant-based biofuels into aluminium refining operations in Gladstone, Queensland.
SuperChar Limited is working with Rio Tinto to explore the use of locally produced bio-pellets as an alternative to a portion of the coal currently used in aluminium refining.
The significance of this project was recently highlighted in Rio Tinto’s Inside Yarwun newsletter, which reported on the five-year agreement, the successful bio-pellet trials and the next steps towards commercial production.
The recognition by Rio Tinto reinforces the importance of this collaboration and the potential for renewable, plant-based fuels to play a meaningful role in reducing industrial carbon emissions.
From Bana Grass to Industrial Biofuel
At the heart of SuperChar’s renewable energy solution is Bana Grass, a fast-growing, high-yielding perennial crop that can remain productive for more than 15 years.
Under ideal growing conditions, Bana Grass can reach heights of up to seven metres, making it a promising renewable feedstock for industrial biofuel production.
SuperChar plans to use locally grown Bana Grass to manufacture bio-pellets at its proposed production facility in the Gladstone region.
These bio-pellets are designed to replace a portion of traditional coal used in industrial processes, helping businesses reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.
Importantly, the project also presents opportunities for Queensland agriculture, creating potential new markets for growers while supporting regional manufacturing and employment.
Working with Rio Tinto to Reduce Emissions
As reported in Rio Tinto’s Inside Yarwun newsletter, previous trials at its Gladstone operations tested different blends of bio-pellets and coal under trial conditions.
The results demonstrated that bio-pellets could replace up to 30% of the coal used to generate steam in refinery boilers.
The new five-year agreement will support further operational demonstrations, testing bio-pellet blends ranging from 5% to 50% as a supplement to coal.
At full contracted volumes, the project could reduce Rio Tinto’s reported Scope 1 emissions by up to 90,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent annually, under Australia’s current National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting framework.
These potential reductions highlight the role renewable biofuels could play in helping energy-intensive industries transition towards lower-emission operations.
Building a Renewable Biofuel Industry in Gladstone
SuperChar is progressing plans to establish a bio-pellet production facility in the Gladstone region, with an initial production capacity of 35,000 tonnes annually.
The next stages of the project include:
- Late 2026: Commencement of Bana Grass planting.
- 2028: Planned commencement of bio-pellet processing.
- 2028 onwards: Initial supply to Rio Tinto’s Yarwun refinery, with the potential for increasing volumes as operations develop.
The project represents more than a new source of industrial fuel.
It is an opportunity to establish a local supply chain connecting Queensland agriculture, renewable energy production and major industrial operations.
By producing renewable fuels locally, SuperChar aims to support regional economic development while helping Australian industry explore practical alternatives to fossil fuels.
A Significant Step Towards a More Sustainable Future
For SuperChar, the agreement with Rio Tinto represents an important step in demonstrating the commercial potential of plant-based renewable fuels.
Heavy industry faces significant challenges in reducing emissions while maintaining reliable, cost-effective production.
SuperChar’s focus is on developing renewable fuel alternatives that can be integrated into existing industrial operations, providing a practical pathway towards lower-emission manufacturing.
The coverage in Rio Tinto’s Inside Yarwun newsletter is a welcome acknowledgement of the progress being made and the potential contribution of renewable biofuels to the future of Australian industry.
As the project progresses towards production in 2028, SuperChar looks forward to continuing its work with Rio Tinto and contributing to the development of a sustainable renewable biofuel industry in Queensland.
SuperChar Limited: Powering the Transition to Green Energy.
Learn more about SuperChar and our renewable biofuel technology at www.superchar.com.au.
Source acknowledgement: Project information and reported trial results referenced from Rio Tinto’s Inside Yarwun newsletter, in its article “Bio pellets take next step”.