Group eyes use of coco-biodiesel in oil-fired power plants

MANILA, Philippines – The Asian Institute of Petroleum Studies Inc (AIPSI) is looking into introducing locally sourced coco-biodiesel in import-dependent oil-fired power plants.

Speaking at a recent International Electric Research Exchange Meeting, Rafael Diaz, executive director of AIPSI said that, by using Coconut Methyl Ester (CME), harmful emissions will be eliminated.

“When blended with industrial diesel oil or industrial fuel oil, also known as bunker, CME makes oil-fired power plants cost-efficient and environment-friendly because harmful emissions are substantially eliminated,” he said.

According to studies conducted by the US Department of Energy, one liter of this biodiesel reduces carbon dioxide emission by 3.5 kilograms on a life-cycle basis.

Using CME also saves costs in both bunker-fired and diesel-fired power plants by optimizing the conversion of fuel energy in electric generation.

Citing tests conducted in South Korea, Diaz said that a 5% CME blend in diesel reduces friction by 63%.

For the end-users, Diaz said that a clean and lubricated fuel system combined with the superb combustion-efficiency would boost power rate resulting in a more cost-efficient fuel rate.

“In the Philippines, there are many locations that generate electricity through small diesel power utilities. Optimizing their efficiency through coco-biodiesel is within easy reach,” Diaz said.

The Department of Energy has accredited Chemrez Technologies, Inc as the Philippine-based coco-biodiesel supplier. – Rappler.com