Indonesia Launches B50 Biodiesel as Milestone in Energy Sovereignty

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia has entered a new phase in its national energy policy with the launch of B50 biodiesel, aimed at reducing dependence on imported fuel.

House of Representatives Commission XII lawmaker Junaidi Auly said the implementation of B50 represents a major opportunity for Indonesia to optimize domestic resources. He noted that the policy comes amid geopolitical uncertainty and global energy price volatility.

“The launch of B50 is a significant milestone on the path toward national energy sovereignty. This deserves recognition because it demonstrates the courage to utilize domestic resources as the foundation for strengthening Indonesia’s energy security,” Junaidi said in Jakarta on Friday, July 10, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He emphasized that the program's success must be measured not only by its launch but also by its implementation. The government must ensure a steady supply of raw materials, user readiness, and sustainable economic benefits.

Indicators of success, Junaidi added, include reduced diesel imports, greater industrial competitiveness, and improved welfare for palm oil farmers. The program is also expected to create a more efficient and reliable energy system for the public.

He urged the government to strengthen national research and technological development to support an energy ecosystem based on local resources. Mastering technology, he said, is crucial for Indonesia to produce competitive energy innovations.

“When the public feels the benefits, the industry grows stronger, farmers become more prosperous, and dependence on imported energy continues to decrease -- that is when B50 will be recognized as a major milestone in the national energy transformation,” Junaidi said.

President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the B50 mandate in Karawang, West Java, on Thursday, July 9. The policy makes Indonesia the first country to implement biodiesel blended with 50 percent palm oil feedstock.

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed that B50 quality has been tested on vehicles manufactured in Asia and Europe. Road tests conducted over six months showed B50 performed better than B40, with some vehicles traveling 40,000 kilometers without filter replacement. ***