New pilot project in Indonesia to cultivate Pongamia on former coal mine site
In Massachusetts, AJOT reported that Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, PT Hasnur Group Indonesia, Hanwa Co., NH Foods, Four Pride Management and SPIL Ventures announced the formation of a consortium to launch a pilot cultivation project for Pongamia, a plant known for its oil-bearing seeds, in Tapin Regency, South Kalimantan Province, Indonesia.
The consortium will use approximately 10 hectares at the site of a former coal mine to conduct technical verification over a five-year period from 2026 to 2031, including the cultivation of Pongamia, the collection of growth data, and the assessment of its potential both as a biofuel feedstock and as a source of carbon credits, according to the report.
The Pongamia seeds contain approximately 30%–45% oil, and because this oil is non-edible, it can be used in the production of biofuels without impacting food supplies. For cultivation, the consortium will draw on the expertise and technical guidance from Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency and national university in Japan regarding plant cultivation and seed production, the report added.
Drawing on the insights gained through the verification activities outlined below, the consortium will jointly explore the potential for future commercialization.
Category: Fuels
