Government to promote B20 biodiesel

The government is actively promoting the use of B20 biodiesel, instead of the standard B7, claiming that the price of B20 is five baht/per litre lower and that this will help public transport operators save costs, Ratchada Dhnadirek, vice minister of PM’s Office said today.

B20 biodiesel is a blend of 20% palm oil and 80% conventional diesel.

She said that the promotion of B20 will also help to boost the demand for palm oil, which will improve the revenues of oil palm farmers and will reduce dependence on oil imports, adding that B20 has the capacity to enhance Thailand’s energy security in the long term.

B20 biodiesel is only available at some service stations at present because, despite its lower price, it is not popular among motorists and transport operators who are concerned that the fuel may not be suitable for their engines.

The road haulage association recently said that most truckers will not use B20 because it may result in higher maintenance costs.