A source of renewable energy in Malaysia, why biodiesel?

Recent surge in crude oil price, finite fossil oil resources, and environmental issues all have aroused grave concerns. The world in 2012 consumed up to 12,476.6 million tons oil equivalent and 87% of this energy came from fossil sources. Malaysia has encountered an increase in energy demand following the country's development and economic growth. Currently, biodiesel is one of the main options to replace petroleum-derived diesel. Thanks to its environment friendly properties and almost similar performance with fossil fuels, biodiesel sounds like a promising option. The present paper deals with available renewable energy scenarios and examines alternative energies such as biomass, solar, wind and mini-hydro energy. The purpose of using the new sources of energy is to make sure of availability of reliable and secure supply of energy for the country. The energy demand and supply are also discussed based on source and relation to the country's fuel diversification policy. The study evaluates Malaysia's status quo in energy and biodiesel market, its strengths from economic, social, and environmental viewpoints and the production of biodiesel in the country. Moreover, the country's potentials to become a leading producer of biodiesel are further studied. The concentration in the study is on biodiesel production in Malaysia. The main portion of raw material for producing biodiesel is palm oil as the country is among the largest producers of palm oil at international level. There are optimistic expectations that by developing biodiesel production in the Malaysia, not only will the countries' energy needs be met, but the country will emerge as a role model that paves the path toward more production of biodiesel all around the world. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.