Unlocking Net Zero with Low-Carbon Molecules and Co-Products

At Talan, we know that achieving net zero demands a whole energy systems perspective — looking beyond single technologies to assess diverse solutions that address the breadth of end uses, geographies, and sectors. Our expertise spans multiple low-carbon molecules, from renewable liquid gases to advanced fuels, enabling businesses and policymakers to explore multiple pathways to decarbonisation.

Why Low Carbon Co-Products Matter 

One key market that is scaling rapidly is Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) — critical for decarbonising aviation. The production process for SAF can create valuable co-products, including bio-based Liquified Petroleum Gas (bioLPG) and Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). These renewable liquid gases can replace fossil heating fuels for homes and businesses off the gas grid, delivering up to 90% carbon savings with minimal infrastructure changes.[1] 

Talan’s modelling, commissioned by the trade association Liquid Gas UK, projects that by 2040, UK SAF production has the potential to generate 74,000 to 200,000 tonnes of bioLPG annually, depending on feedstock availability and commercial viability.[2] This may be sufficient to meet between 20% to 55% of the UK’s bioLPG commercial and domestic heat demand in 2040. HVO, as a larger co-product, could achieve even greater supply volumes.

As SAF scales globally, these co-products could offer a powerful dual benefit: cleaner skies and cleaner homes. However, realising the opportunity for co-products, such as bioLPG and HVO, requires overcoming key challenges, including ensuring sufficient sustainable feedstock, assessing commercial viability, and understanding consumer impacts.
 

The Opportunity in Co-Products

With strong political support and investment driving the production of renewable fuels, co-products have the potential to support decarbonisation efforts. Achieving truly sustainable net zero depends on whole system thinking, recognising that every molecule matters.

Our Approach

Talan partners with industry and government to:

• Model market potential for renewable low carbon molecules like bioLPG and rDME.
• Advise on policy frameworks that enable co-products to become viable revenue streams.
• Support market entry strategies for businesses navigating emerging low-carbon fuel markets.

From strategy to stakeholder engagement, Talan’s Low Carbon Molecules team helps clients seize opportunities in this rapidly evolving landscape. Together, we can build a resilient, net-zero energy system - one that leaves no sector behind.