Starting October 1, 2024, diesel fuel will include 1% more coconut methyl ester (CME), increasing the blend from 2% to 3%, as announced by the Department of Energy (DOE), reported PhilStar.
On September 30, the DOE stated that this change is expected to enhance fuel mileage, mitigate potential oil price increases, support local coconut farmers, and promote cleaner energy sources.
“To foster economic growth, environmental stewardship, and cleaner energy use, the nationwide implementation of a 3% CME blend in all diesel fuel will take effect on October 1, 2024,” the department noted in a press release.
According to the DOE, this increase in CME content will require approximately 900 million coconuts to produce between 100 and 120 million liters of CME.
“This boost in the CME blend is anticipated to benefit coconut farmers, biodiesel producers, and other stakeholders in the coconut industry,” the agency added.
CME, derived from coconut oil, serves as a type of biodiesel. While blending CME with diesel does not make it entirely renewable, it does help reduce reliance on pure petroleum.
The DOE also indicated that this change will lead to a slight improvement in mileage, with fuel efficiency rising from 10 kilometers per liter to nearly 11 kilometers for CME-mixed diesel. This conclusion is based on on-road testing covering 30,000 kilometers, which showed that a 5% CME blend improved mileage by 10%, allowing for longer travel on less fuel.
The DOE’s plan includes gradually increasing the coconut-based biodiesel content, aiming for a 5% CME blend by October 2026, with increments of 1% each year. “The CME blend will rise to 4% by October 1, 2025, and to 5% by October 1, 2026,” the announcement stated.
With the 1% increase in the CME blend, the DOE estimates consumers could save around P0.50 per liter, based on the average diesel pump price of P54.70 during the week of September 24 to 30. “These savings are expected to offset any potential increases in pump prices due to the CME blend adjustment,” the DOE noted.
However, motorists should also brace for higher fuel prices starting October 1 due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. This marks the second consecutive week of rising fuel prices.
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