KPBB Says Electrification More Sustainable Than B50 Programme

The Leaded Petrol Eradication Committee (KPBB) believes the vehicle electrification programme is a long-term solution to strengthen energy security while reducing emissions in the transport sector, rather than relying on the B50 Biodiesel Programme.

KPBB Executive Director Ahmad Safrudin stated in Jakarta on Friday that the vehicle electrification programme is already a national agenda and must be accelerated to resolve energy security issues in a simpler and more sustainable manner.

Ahmad assessed that while the implementation of B50 is part of an unavoidable energy transition policy, its use must consider the technical specifications of vehicles to prevent engine damage. He noted that Euro 4 standard diesel vehicles produced from 2022 onwards are generally not recommended to use B50 or fuels that do not meet manufacturer specifications.

Therefore, he emphasised that the government should prioritise vehicle electrification to strengthen energy security while simultaneously reducing transport sector emissions.

Regarding the implementation of B50 biodiesel, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) affirmed it will strictly supervise the quality of B50. Director of Oil and Gas Engineering and Environment at the Ministry, Joko Hadi Wibowo, said business actors who fail to meet quality standards face administrative sanctions, including the suspension or revocation of business permits.

Joko stated the government is not only promoting the use of B50 but also ensuring the quality of fuel in circulation meets standards. He added that the government hopes the benefits of using B50 will outweigh any potential negative impacts, and evaluations of the policy’s implementation will be conducted regularly.