B50 Mandate Takes Effect, KAI Ensures All Diesel Rolling Stock Is Ready to Implement the New Biodiesel

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) has confirmed that all of its diesel rolling stock is ready to implement B50 biodiesel. This readiness covers locomotives and power generator cars, which are essential components in the operation of diesel-powered train services.

KAI's preparedness is in line with the Government's B50 biodiesel mandate, which officially came into effect today, July 1, 2026. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources stated that the implementation of B50 includes a three-month transition period to allow for operational adjustments in the field, including the management of existing fuel stocks and the gradual transition toward full B50 utilization.

KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication Anne Purba stated that KAI supports the Government's policy to strengthen the utilization of biofuel derived from domestic resources. This support is reflected through the company's readiness of rolling stock, technical implementation testing, and the reinforcement of operational safety and reliability.

"KAI supports the Government's B50 biodiesel mandate, which takes effect today, July 1, 2026. From the rolling stock perspective, all KAI locomotives and diesel-powered equipment are ready to implement B50 after undergoing technical implementation testing and strengthening operational safety measures," Anne said.

Anne explained that this readiness has been reinforced through joint implementation testing conducted with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources on diesel-based railway equipment. The testing was carried out to ensure that the use of B50 is compatible with the operational characteristics of railway services, both for locomotives and power generator cars.

For locomotives, the testing focused on evaluating engine performance when operating with B50 under normal railway operating conditions. Monitoring included engine performance, combustion stability, fuel consumption, and the condition of key components to ensure the rolling stock remains reliable while serving passengers.

Meanwhile, testing on power generator cars included evaluations of generator performance, fuel consumption, emissions, filter condition, and operational durability. These stages are essential because power generator cars provide the electricity supply required to maintain passenger comfort throughout the journey.

"The use of B50 in railway rolling stock requires measurable technical preparedness. Therefore, KAI has conducted testing, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure that its implementation remains fully aligned with railway operational safety standards," Anne said.

From a sustainability perspective, the implementation of B50 further strengthens KAI's contribution to Indonesia's national energy transition agenda. Increasing the biodiesel blend supports greater utilization of domestically produced renewable energy, reduces dependence on fossil diesel fuel, and contributes to emission reduction efforts in the transportation sector.

KAI has also progressively utilized biodiesel in the operation of its diesel rolling stock, beginning with B35 and subsequently B40. This experience forms part of KAI's preparedness to transition to B50 through a technical approach that is safe, well-measured, and aligned with operational requirements.

"KAI is ready to implement the use of B50 in accordance with the Government's policy. We have prepared all diesel rolling stock to ensure that this energy transition proceeds while maintaining travel safety, operational reliability, and service quality for the public," Anne concluded.

VP Corporate Communication KAI