Pertamina confirms infrastructure readiness for B50 biodiesel distribution

Surabaya, East Java (ANTARA) - Pertamina Patra Niaga has ensured the reliability of facilities and infrastructure to receive Biodiesel 50 (B50) products at fuel terminals, subsequently distributing them to petrol stations (SPBU) and the public.

“From the perspective of Pertamina Patra Niaga, we are ensuring the reliability of infrastructure to receive the product at our terminals, then distributing it to petrol stations and ultimately to the community,” said Ahad Rahedi, Area Manager for Communication, Relations, and CSR for the East Java, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara (Jatimbalinus) region, in Surabaya on Wednesday.

Ahad stated that B50 will eventually replace the previous product, Biosolar B40; however, regarding product handling, distribution patterns, and pricing, all matters remain under the authority of the central government.

Regarding distribution infrastructure, he ensured there would be no changes, meaning Pertamina is prepared to carry out government assignments in supporting the use of better, cleaner, and more environmentally friendly energy.

He noted that Pertamina is currently still using a pricing structure based on B40 as it awaits official instructions from the government.

“We are still waiting for the government’s decision. Technically, the implementation guidelines and distribution patterns are ready. We are simply awaiting the official decision from the government,” he said.

Ahad explained that the difference between B40 and B50 lies in the biofuel content within Biosolar; B40 contains up to 40 per cent biofuel, whereas B50 increases this content to 50 per cent.

Regarding the technical readiness of vehicles, Ahad mentioned that testing the feasibility of using B50 in vehicles and industrial machinery falls under the authority of the government, specifically through agencies under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM).

“From our side, the product has been declared fit for distribution to the public. As for technical testing and the feasibility of its use in vehicles, that is the domain of the government as the testing authority,” said A_had.