Indonesia pushes B50 biodiesel mandate to bolster energy security
Energy experts say President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming's B50 policy strengthens Indonesia's energy security amid global volatility.
University of Indonesia energy specialist Ali Ahmudi Achyak praised President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming for using the B50 biodiesel program to safeguard the nation's energy supply. The mandate obliges diesel fuel to contain half palm-oil biodiesel, while a complementary E10 rule blends ethanol into gasoline, both intended to offset risks from chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz. Achyak highlighted that the measures also address affordability, noting the administration's decision not to increase subsidized fuel prices despite volatile oil markets.
The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry reported that B50 distribution had reached 75-80% of outlets as of Aug. 31, with a target of full implementation by October 2026. Ongoing monitoring will continue to ensure the program’s effectiveness.
