KAI Confirms All Diesel Fleet Ready for Mandatory B50 Biodiesel Implementation
Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) has ensured that all diesel rolling stock is ready to implement B50 biodiesel. This readiness includes locomotives and power cars, which are vital components in diesel-based railway operations.
KAI’s readiness aligns with the government’s B50 biodiesel mandate, which comes into effect today, 1 July 2026. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources stated that the implementation of B50 includes a three-month transition period to allow for field adjustments, including the management of existing stocks and the process of moving towards full B50 usage.
KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication, Anne Purba, stated that KAI supports the government’s policy to strengthen the use of plant-based energy derived from domestic resources. This support is demonstrated through equipment readiness, technical field testing, and the reinforcement of operational safety and reliability.
“KAI supports the B50 biodiesel mandate implemented by the government starting today, 1 July 2026. From the equipment side, all KAI locomotives and diesel rolling stock are ready to implement B50 following technical field tests and the strengthening of operational safety aspects,” said Anne.
Anne explained that this readiness was reinforced through field tests conducted alongside the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources on diesel-based railway equipment. The testing was carried out to ensure that the use of B50 is compatible with railway operational characteristics, both for locomotives and power cars.
For locomotives, the testing focused on observing engine response when using B50 during train operation patterns. Monitoring was conducted on engine performance, combustion stability, fuel consumption, and the condition of key components to ensure the rolling stock remains reliable in serving passengers.
For power cars, testing involved inspecting generator set performance, fuel consumption, emissions, filter conditions, and operational durability. These stages are crucial as power cars play a role in maintaining the electricity supply to support passenger comfort during journeys.
“The use of B50 in railway rolling stock requires measured technical readiness. Therefore, KAI is conducting testing, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure its implementation remains aligned with railway operational safety standards,” said Anne.
In terms of sustainability, the implementation of B50 strengthens KAI’s contribution to the national energy transition agenda. Increasing the biodiesel blend helps expand the use of domestic renewable energy, reduces fossil diesel consumption, and supports emission reduction efforts in the transport sector.
KAI has also been using biodiesel gradually in its diesel operations, progressing from B35 to B40. This experience has been part of KAI’s preparation for entering the B50 stage using a technical approach that is safe, measured, and in accordance with operational needs.
“KAI is ready to implement the use of B50 in accordance with government directives. We have prepared all diesel rolling stock so that this energy transition can proceed while maintaining travel safety, operational reliability, and the quality of service to the public,” Anne concluded.