Indonesia aims for full B50 biodiesel distribution at all gas stations by October 2026
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources aims to complete the distribution of 50% biodiesel (B50) fuel at all gas stations by October 1, 2026.
- The B50 mandate, implemented in July 2026, includes a three-month transition period before a full evaluation in December.
- The program is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 44.46 million tons of CO2 equivalent and save the state approximately Rp 170 trillion in foreign exchange in 2026.
Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has set a firm target to ensure the nationwide distribution of 50% biodiesel (B50) fuel at all public refueling stations is completed by October 1, 2026. This ambitious goal is part of the country's ongoing commitment to energy security and environmental sustainability.
Director General of New, Renewable Energy, and Energy Conservation, Eniya Listiani Dewi, stated that the full rollout of B50 across all gas stations is expected by the target date. The mandatory B50 program, which officially began on July 1, 2026, incorporates a crucial three-month transition period. This phase allows fuel companies to deplete existing B40 stocks and adjust their blending processes to meet the new B50 standard before a comprehensive evaluation in December 2026.
Currently, approximately 57% of gas stations are already distributing B50, and the government anticipates this figure will rise significantly in the coming weeks. The implementation of B50 is projected to yield substantial environmental benefits, with an estimated reduction of 44.46 million tons of CO2 equivalent in greenhouse gas emissions for 2026. This marks a significant increase compared to the emission reductions achieved through the B40 program in 2025.
Beyond its environmental advantages, the B50 mandate is poised to deliver considerable economic benefits. The program is forecasted to save the state around Rp 170 trillion in foreign exchange in 2026. Furthermore, it aims to enhance the value-added of crude palm oil (CPO) and create approximately 2.1 million jobs. This policy positions Indonesia as a global pioneer, being the first nation to mandate a 50% biodiesel blend in its diesel fuel, building upon a decade of implementing previous biodiesel programs like B30, B35, and B40.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.