Pertamina launches Biopertamax

Supporting the government?s program of promoting alternative energy, state oil and gas Pertamina launched its first Biopertamax product Monday.

?This is a continuation of Pertamina?s program to promote green energy after the launching of Biodiesel in April and Biopremium in August,? marketing and trade deputy director Hanung Budya said during the launch.

Called Biopertamax E-5, a mixture of 95 percent Pertamax and 5 percent pure ethanol, the environmentally friendly product can be used in all types of vehicle engine without the need for modification, Hanung was quoted as saying by Jakarta Post.

To promote use the new fuel, Hanung said Pertamina was selling it at Rp 4,750 (US$0.5), or Rp 50 cheaper than Pertamax.

At present, it is only available at gas station within the Senayan compound, located behind the Hotel Mulia.

?We hope to soon expand its availability to other places,? Hanung said. (*)