InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA - The plan to implement a B50 biodiesel mandate in 2026 is drawing sharp criticism from energy experts. Many believe the move is too rushed and could create significant technical and psychological problems if comprehensive road tests are not conducted.
Akhmad Hanan, a member of the Energy Resilience Study Center at the Defense University, emphasized the need for a thorough evaluation before B50 is officially implemented. He argues that an accelerated road test schedule does not allow enough time to study the long-term impacts of using biodiesel, especially on heavy-duty vehicles like trucks and buses.
"If B50 is implemented too quickly, there are several technical issues to be aware of. These problems should be studied in a collaborative effort involving educational institutions, research and development centers, and manufacturing industries," Akhmad stated, as reported by Bloomberg Technoz.
He explained that experiences in Brazil and the European Union show that biodiesel with a high concentration of Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) has different physical and chemical properties than pure diesel. Higher viscosity and pour points could potentially affect fuel injection systems, particularly in vehicles not designed for such a high biodiesel content.
Furthermore, Akhmad warned of the risk of deposit buildup on injectors, filters, and combustion chambers, which could decrease engine performance and increase maintenance costs. In terms of distribution, biodiesel's tendency to absorb water and its susceptibility to oxidation could lead to microbial growth or sludge in storage tanks.
"In cold or mountainous regions, biodiesel with a high FAME blend can face cold flow problems, where it thickens or solidifies, disrupting fuel supply. If the distribution and storage infrastructure aren't ready, the risks are even greater," he cautioned.
Similar warnings were issued regarding public trust. According to Akhmad, if the transition to B50 causes technical glitches, it could damage public perception of a palm oil-based green energy program that is strategically important in the long term.
Meanwhile, the government has said that the B50 biodiesel mandate road test is ongoing and is expected to take six to eight months. ESDM Minister Bahlil Lahadalia acknowledged the possibility of adjusting the target. "We are currently conducting tests. We will wait for the results to determine whether we will go straight to B50 or have a B45 phase first," Bahlil said at the Presidential Palace complex on Friday, September 12, 2025.
Eniya Listiani Dewi, the Director General of New and Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE), added that the ministry has not yet conducted an official B45 test. Therefore, technical and economic studies are being intensified, including the price of palm oil as a raw material, the need for incentives, and export levies and duties.
The palm oil-based biodiesel mandate program is currently at B40. However, some industry players, particularly in the mining sector, have complained of higher operational costs due to more expensive fuel. Some heavy-duty vehicle manufacturers are also still hesitant to provide warranties for the use of biodiesel with a FAME content above 10%. (T2)
