Jakarta – The Indonesian government is preparing supporting regulations to accelerate the adoption of B100 biodiesel or biodiesel with a composition of 100% Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) from palm oil. This step is taken to realise renewable resource-based energy security and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR) Bahlil Lahadalia stated that the government has developed a plan to gradually implement biodiesel, starting from the currently enacted B35 to B100 as the final target.
“We are preparing all stages towards B100, but of course, this requires a gradual process and in-depth research to ensure the readiness of technology and infrastructure,” Bahlil said in an official statement on Tuesday, November 5.
Indonesia has only used the B35 biodiesel blend, consisting of 35% FAME and 65% diesel fuel. The government aims to increase the use of biodiesel to B40 by early next year. “God willing, the implementation of B40 will start on January 1, 2025. Trials and preparations have been completed,” he added.
Director General of New Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) Eniya Listiani Dewi also expressed the government’s readiness to run the B40 program, including preparing supporting infrastructure. “This preparation includes production, transportation, logistics, and ports. Everything must be ready by December 2024,” Eniya explained.
The government plans to develop B40 and B50 biodiesel in addition to B40. Field trials for B50 biodiesel have already been conducted in South Kalimantan. “This test is to ensure that the engines can operate optimally with higher FAME fuel,” Eniya said.
Although B100 is the ultimate goal of the biodiesel program, Minister Bahlil acknowledged that the government and industry face challenges in achieving this target. Increasing biodiesel production capacity to B100 requires large investments and the support of advanced technology that meets international standards. “We need to ensure the industry can meet globally competitive quality, including investment in appropriate equipment and technology,” Bahlil added.
The government continues encouraging the industrial sector to participate in investment and technological innovation to support the transition to environmentally friendly fuels. This support is carried out by drafting investment-friendly regulations and technical assistance so the industry can adapt to new standards.
Bahlil explained that the increased use of biodiesel is expected to positively impact the Indonesian economy by reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports and increasing the added value of local commodities, such as palm oil. “With the increasing demand for palm oil for biodiesel, the welfare of palm oil farmers is also expected to be boosted,” he said.
The government’s efforts to accelerate the biodiesel transition align with the sustainability and national energy security vision. If implementing B100 biodiesel goes according to plan, Indonesia could become the first Southeast Asian country to utilise biodiesel fully. (Hartatik)
