Indonesia's state railway operator prepares full transition to B50

KAI continues to strengthen its energy sustainability roadmap through the gradual use of biodiesel..

Jakarta (ANTARA) - State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is finalizing operational adjustments to transition its entire fleet to B50 biodiesel fuel ahead of the government's mandatory nationwide rollout set for July 1, 2026.

KAI President Director Bobby Rasyidin confirmed on Monday that the company remains committed to supporting the national energy transition, which aims to reduce transportation emissions and decrease reliance on fossil fuel imports.

"KAI continues to strengthen its energy sustainability roadmap through the gradual use of biodiesel in train operations," Rasyidin said in a statement.

He emphasized that the fuel transformation mirrors a decade-long adaptive policy to align mass transit with national green energy targets.

The company's environmental records indicate a steady and structured progression in fuel usage over the past decade.

KAI utilized pure petroleum diesel (B0) in 2017, before shifting to B20 in 2018–2019, B30 in 2020–2022, B35 in 2023–2024 and B40 in 2025–2026, ahead of the planned full integration of B50.

“KAI is strengthening the role of railways through a biodiesel roadmap from B0 to B50, ensuring that each stage is aligned with safety, service reliability, energy efficiency and emission reduction,” Rasyidin noted.

He emphasized that the railway sector occupies a highly strategic position due to its massive role in public mobility and national logistics distribution. Therefore, any energy efficiency measures implemented by KAI will directly impact national economic competitiveness.

In cooperation with the Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Ministry, KAI has been conducting comprehensive technical trials of the B50 blend on locomotives and generators since April 2026. The ongoing technical testing focuses heavily on evaluating engine performance, fuel consumption efficiency, exhaust emissions and equipment durability.

Due to the heavy loads and extended durations typical of train journeys, rigorous verification is essential to guarantee safety and prevent disruptions to passenger and freight transportation services.

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Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Yashinta Difa

Editor: M Razi Rahman

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