InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA - Following the successful implementation of a 35% biodiesel blend, commonly referred to as B35, efforts are now underway to increase this to B40 by 2025. Edi Wibowo, Director of Bioenergy at the Directorate General of New Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), believes that the increase in biodiesel blending will proceed smoothly if the supply of raw materials is ensured.
Edi Wibowo is a key figure behind the development of biodiesel in Indonesia, focusing on renewable energy and possessing extensive experience in natural resource management. He is currently leading innovative steps to implement a 40% biodiesel blend, or B40. Although the quota for B40 implementation is still awaiting a decision from the Directorate General of Oil and Gas (Migas), Edi assures that they are ready to welcome this policy.
In a recent discussion with InfoSAWIT, Edi explained that the Directorate General of Oil and Gas will determine the necessary supply of FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters) to meet the B40 quota. "We are still waiting for the exact figures. Once these figures are submitted and approved by the Minister of ESDM, we will see the actual needs for 2025," Edi stated.
Thus, all preparatory processes will run effectively once the quota is established, and the B40 program is expected to meet the government's targets in the near future.
Edi emphasized that from a technical standpoint, there are no significant obstacles to implementing this program. The challenges lie more in the domestic palm oil production capacity, which must be sufficient to meet the FAME requirements for B40. "We hope all mandatory programs run smoothly, both in terms of raw materials and production, so they can be implemented comprehensively," Edi added, expressing optimism about Indonesia's biodiesel production readiness.
As someone who understands the dynamics of the energy industry, Edi has a forward-looking perspective on how energy policies can impact national energy security and sustainable economic development. He holds a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in energy conversion from the University of Indonesia and has played a role in initiating several energy policies aligned with bioenergy mandatory programs. (T2)