Sugar palm has potential as national bioethanol source: BRIN

Indonesia is facing a significant challenge in meeting its growing demand for biofuels as part of its broader strategy to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. At the heart of this effort lies the need for four million kiloliters of ethanol annually to support the country's E20 biofuel initiative. This initiative aims to blend 20% ethanol with gasoline, reducing carbon emissions and promoting domestic energy security. However, fulfilling this requirement presents both opportunities and obstacles, particularly when considering the role of sugar palm (aren) as a potential source of bioethanol.

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has highlighted the potential of sugar palm as a sustainable and viable alternative for producing bioethanol. According to Saptadi Darmawan, a researcher at BRIN’s Biomass and Bioproducts Research Center, sugar palm sap is an ideal raw material due to its high content of sucrose, glucose, and fructose. Unlike other bioethanol sources such as starch or wood biomass, which require more complex processing methods, sugar palm sap can be transformed into bioethanol through simpler processes involving fermentation and distillation.

Moreover, sugar palm-based bioethanol possesses an impressive octane rating of approximately 108, surpassing that of conventional high-octane gasoline. This characteristic makes it an attractive option for enhancing fuel performance. Additionally, sugar palm trees have a long lifespan, capable of producing sap for up to 20 years, contributing to their sustainability as a renewable resource. Their cultivation on marginal or less productive lands ensures they do not compete with food crops, addressing concerns about land use conflicts.

Despite these advantages, there are notable challenges associated with developing sugar palm as a primary source of bioethanol. One major issue is the need to standardize the quality of raw materials and the production process itself. In certain regions, sugar palm sap is currently used for traditional alcoholic beverages, which hold greater economic value. To prevent competition between these uses, experts suggest creating distinct clusters—one focused on food production and another dedicated to energy generation—to ensure smooth development of the industry.

Economically, the feasibility of the sugar palm bioethanol business appears promising, especially for cooperatives and small-scale industries. Production costs range from Rp8,500 to Rp10,000 per liter, while the estimated selling price falls between Rp14,000 and Rp16,000 per liter, yielding a gross margin of 35 to 45 percent. However, recent statistics indicate a slight decline in sugar palm plantation areas and production volumes since 2019, underscoring the urgency of addressing this trend to fully realize the crop's potential as a national bioethanol source.

Concrete steps are being taken to advance the utilization of sugar palm for bioenergy purposes. The Forestry Ministry has initiated a pilot project at Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) Kamojang in Garut, West Java, which commenced operations in December 2025. This pilot plant relies on sugar palm sap supplied by the Baru Bojong Social Forestry Business Group (KUPS). With a daily production capacity of roughly 300 liters of bioethanol from 300 to 500 kilograms of sap, the project represents a crucial milestone in exploring the viability of large-scale implementation.

The government's commitment to expanding the use of biofuels is evident through initiatives such as the B50 and E20 programs aimed at curbing fuel imports. These policies align with broader environmental goals, emphasizing the importance of transitioning towards cleaner energy solutions. As Indonesia continues to navigate the complexities of balancing economic growth with ecological sustainability, the role of innovative resources like sugar palm remains pivotal in shaping the nation's future energy landscape.