Downer Collaborates with FACET on eFuel Plant Project

29/10/2024

Downer is pleased to announce its collaboration with the Franco-Australian Centre for Energy Transition (FACET) on a pre-FEED (front end engineering design) study, to construct a commercial-scale demonstration plant in Australia, producing synthetic fuels (eFuels) for the maritime and aviation sectors.

The project sets a benchmark for multilateral connections and international cooperation and reinforces Downer’s expertise as a delivery partner. By turning ideas into practical solutions, Downer contributes to bringing innovative projects to life.

Downer will work with FACET’s founding partners, including the French Centre for Alternative Energy (CEA), the Australian host institution, Swinburne University of Technology, Université Grenoble-Alpes, alongside FACET’s 16 ‘First Movers’, including Airbus, CMA CGM & Safran, on the study.

Spanning an eight-month period, the project will leverage Downer’s subject matter expertise in solution architecture, asset management, and decades of experience in Australia’s industrial and power generation sectors to develop the conceptual design for the eFuels plant. 

The collaboration between Downer and FACET was announced at the inaugural Franco-Australian Centre for Energy Transition Symposium this week. 

Downer’s work with FACET showcases the power of collaboration across sectors and borders, illustrating the importance of collective action in leading ambitious climate solutions, said Murray Richards, Executive General Manager, Industrial & Power Generation 

"Collaboration is key to achieving a sustainable energy future, and working alongside universities, research institutions, government, and industry stakeholders ensures we have the right mix of expertise and vision to address the complex needs of this transition. We are proud to contribute our expertise to such a pivotal initiative."

Ricky Bridge, Group Executive Manager Sustainability & Environment added to this sentiment:

"Downer’s Purpose, ‘Enabling communities to thrive,’ reflects our commitment to building a more sustainable future. With growing expectations from stakeholders to reduce environmental impacts, while planning for our future needs, our collaboration with FACET is a key example of how we’re contributing to the energy transition.  Through the production of eFuels, we are actively supporting the shift to renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions” 

By collaborating with FACET, Downer not only reinforces its position as a thought leader but also underscores the importance of engaging with industry at all levels to bring pioneering solutions to life.

About FACET

The Franco-Australian Centre for Energy Transition (FACET) is dedicated to strengthening the bilateral relationship between Australia and France through deep collaboration in research, innovation, education, and training to drive the advancement of sustainable and net-zero energy initiatives.

FACET aims to promote the wider adoption of sustainable energy solutions, bolster multilateral collaborations, and enhance education and training to drive a proactive climate change response agenda.