DOE brings coco-diesel to US for tests as alternative fuel

After the successful launch of coco-biodiesel as an alternative fuel for transport, the government’s energy research program got another boost – this time from the international community.

A seven-man delegation from the Philippines, led by the Department of Energy, went to the United States on the invitation by the US Department of Energy to pursue discussions on the implementation of coco-biodiesel as alternative fuel for transport.

The DOE said the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has recommended the conduct of several tests on coco-biodiesel to confirm the results of tests conducted by the DOE, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) and various other stakeholders in the project.

In numerous tests that were conducted, it was found that coco-biodiesel blends have positive impact on the environment and on engine performance. At one percent coco-biodiesel blend, emission tests show that there is a significant black smoke reduction.

The engine power increase is also seen to translate to additional mileage and eventually generate savings for motorists in terms of fuel purchase.

Further confirmatory tests will be conducted by the USDOE- NREL in the third quarter of 2004 and is expected to be completed within six months. The tests are expected to address the concerns being raised by several petroleum companies.

Coco-biodiesel is another first for the Philippines. In most countries, biodiesel is a mixture of diesel fuel and ester derived either from corn, soya, rapeseed or palm. The Philippines is the first country to use coconut oil for biodiesel.