Assessing the readiness to implement bioethanol-blended fuel in Indonesia

The national biofuel program of Indonesia was launched in 2006 to initiate the use of bioethanol as an alternative fuel alongside biodiesel. While biodiesel has achieved notable success in implementing B35 and positioning Indonesia as the global largest user of biodiesel blends, bioethanol has made no significant progress. Bioethanol is a prominent biofuel that is progressively being promoted for utilization. Biofuel as a renewable energy source has emerged as a viable option as energy demands increase while resources decrease and climate conditions worsen. Currently, the use of renewable energy in Indonesia has contributed to 13 % of the target set at 23 % by 2025 and 31 % by 2050, as mandated by Presidential Decree No. 22/2017 concerning the General National Energy Plan. This study aims to assess the readiness for the implementation of bioethanol-blended fuel in Indonesia. The present study provides an in-depth assessment of the Indonesian bioethanol development program, covering topics such as bioethanol product innovation, the present state of bioethanol utilization, and objectives and recommendations to ensure the sustainability of the program. The sufficient supply chain of raw materials, advanced bioethanol production technology, and supporting policies are the three main factors affecting the implementation of the bioethanol program in Indonesia.