And the government here is keen in further exploring the pros and cons of manufacturing biodiesel from locally produced coconut oil.
This followed an official visit by Fiji’s military ruler Commodore Frank Bainimarama and members of the national security council to the first-ever biodiesel service station in Lami Town.
Bainimarama and his team had a chance to get a first-hand experience of how biodiesel is produced after touring the premises with business tycoon Hari Punja.
The biodiesel service station is part of the Blue Gas Company, a subsidiary of the Punja Group of Companies.
Biodiesel Group (Fiji) Limited managing director Ajay Punja said manufacturing biodiesel locally opened up doors of opportunities for those involved in the coconut industry.
He said that biodiesel has a lot of benefits when compared to petroleum diesel.
“It would be better for the people of Fiji because it will reduce the importation of fuel, it is environmentally friendly and creates employment for those involved in the coconut and biodiesel industries,” said Punja.
“Coconut farmers themselves would be paid a reasonable sum because we offer them more than what they used to get previously.”
At least 300 vehicles are already using biodiesel locally which include private vehicles, government vehicles, taxis and even buses.
Punja said the company wants to extend their service all over Fiji.
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