MOU to study sustainable use of unused palm oil byproducts signed

In Malaysia, JGC Holdings Corporation and Japan NUS (JANUS) have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Malaysian natural gas sales, marketing, and distribution company Gas Malaysia Bhd (GMB) for joint study of sustainable domestic palm oil industry development through effective utilization of unused resources from palm oil milling in the country.

This project will study the feasibility of converting the methane sources of POME and EFB into biomethane fuel and pellet fuel through recovery and processing. Potential biocrude oil and biochemical applications for thinned and waste wood will also be investigated. Participants intend to contribute to sustainability in the palm oil industry through effective utilization of the unused resources generated by the industry, with another goal being reduction of Scope 1 CO2 emissions by energy and biofuel consumers.

Specifically, GMB will provide information on facilities with good access to feedstock in Peninsular Malaysia and on bioenergy (including natural gas) distribution networks. JGC Holdings and JANUS will study the solutions needed to convert industrial POME, EFB, and thinned/waste wood to biofuel and biochemicals. The supply chain will also be studied, with one facet being the optimal means of supplying fuel to small general services in Malaysia through biofuel liquefaction. This research will extend to the use of carbon credits, biomethane certification, and other systems that enhance the sustainable value of any products resulting from the project.

The joint study will tie in with the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Initiative announced by the government of Japan in 2022.