Alternative fuels gain momentum | Bangkok Post: business

ENERGY

Alternative fuel development in Thailand is gathering pace in 2011, as global oil prices are still rising and the country is committed to energy saving and fossil fuel consumption reduction.

Even though palm oil is in short supply, the government is likely to move ahead with plans to replace B3 biodiesel with B5 by the middle of the year. B5, containing 5% palm-based biofuel, was supposed to have become mandatory today but the recent palm shortage has caused officials to delay enforcement.

Rapid expansion of ethanol-based fuels such as E20 and E85 gasohol is also expected, according to Peeraphol Sakarin, director-general of the Department of Energy Business.