The Energy Ministry is speeding up enforcement of biodiesel B20 use amid a broader effort to reduce diesel emissions in the country.
The worries stem from emissions released by vehicles on roads, exacerbating the pollution problem in Bangkok and surrounding areas. The problem intensified in late 2018 and still persists.
B20 is blended with 20% methyl ester from crude palm oil, but releases less emissions. The current biodiesel is B7, blended with 7% methyl ester in a combination with high-speed diesel.
But B20 is in a trial period of use for a fleet of big trucks, public buses, express boats and agricultural machinery, with stakeholders concerned B20 will pose problems for diesel engines.
Energy Minister Siri Jirapongphan said policymakers are preparing B20 to be ready for pickup and truck assemblers as well as oil traders.
"The ministry has been talking with all stakeholders since mid-2018, and although there was no conclusion, policymakers will take action on B20 enforcement as soon as possible," Mr Siri said.
"We are aiming for B20 to be available at widespread petrol stations very soon."
He said vehicle assemblers must report to policymakers that their diesel-powered pickups, big trucks and buses are compatible with B20.
The ministry is in talks with logistics providers and transport companies regarding their readiness for B20, but there has not been a conclusion.
Vehicle assemblers including Hino Motor Sales Thailand, Daimler Commercial Vehicles Thailand and Tri Petch Isuzu Sales Co were expected to report to the ministry yesterday.
The ministry is also calling on oil companies PTT Plc, Shell Company Thailand, Esso Thailand, Chevron Thailand, Bangchak Corporation Plc and Susco Plc.
An oil industry representative who requested anonymity said many traders are ready for commercial-scale B20, and there are about 10 petrol stations distributing B20.
B20 is three baht lower in price per litre than the current biodiesel because it is subsidised by a levy collected from other fuel types in the State Oil Fund, and an excise tax deduction.
Ninnart Chaithirapinyo, chairman of the board at Toyota Motor Thailand, said Toyota's pickups have already been developed for B20 compatibility.
"But the B20 disadvantage is a grease in the engine when the weather is cold. Toyota has developed its diesel engine to warm up itself and melt the grease when starting, so drivers of pickups can be confident about B20 usage," Mr Ninnart said.
