From hydrogen to SAF: one day course links Powerfuels and financial modelling
A short course at UNSW Sydney in November will introduce engineers to the fundamentals of project finance with a focus on Powerfuels technologies, giving participants practical modelling experience to assess the financial viability of hydrogen and sustainable fuel projects.
Engineers and energy professionals interested in the economics behind emerging clean fuel technologies will soon have the chance to build both conceptual and hands-on skills through Introduction to Project Financing for Engineers. The in-person course, hosted by the Power Fuels including Hydrogen Network and held at UNSW Sydney’s Kensington campus on Monday 3 November.
Designed specifically around the context of Powerfuels — including hydrogen, e-fuels, and sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) — the program introduces participants to project finance principles as they apply to sustainable fuels production. The course will explore the solar-to-green hydrogen pathway and cover core topics such as capital and operating costs, financing structures, and key performance metrics like internal rate of return (IRR) and net present value (NPV).
Participants will learn to explain the role of Powerfuels (e.g., hydrogen, e-fuels, SAF) in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors and enabling the global energy transition. They’ll also apply modelling skills to build a discounted cash flow (DCF) model for a solar-powered green hydrogen project using Excel, before extending their learning to a Power-to-Liquids model for sustainable aviation fuel as a take-home exercise.
The course combines conceptual learning with applied modelling to help participants understand how technical and financial decisions interact in project development. Real-world case studies form a central part of the program, allowing attendees to explore industry challenges and test financial viability using realistic data.
The teaching team includes Khushal Polepalle, Thomas Wood, Ramesh Archuna, and Sparsh Polepalle, who bring a mix of engineering and finance expertise. The session also offers networking opportunities with professionals working across the Powerfuels industry, connecting attendees with those already developing and financing renewable fuel projects.
Participants are encouraged to bring their laptops to complete the hands-on financial modelling exercises.
