Development of Biopellets as a Renewable Energy Solution to Replace Fossil Fuels - A Review

The fossil fuel crisis and the global goal of increasing renewable energy use to 23% by 2025 are driving the development of alternative fuels derived from biomass. One such solution is biopellets, which overcome the weaknesses of conventional biomass, such as high moisture content and suboptimal combustion. This study reviews the use of various biomass waste feedstocks, including palm oil wood, coffee grounds, coffee husks, teak wood, mahogany wood powder, and rice husk waste, in biopellet production. Most biopellets generally meet the SNI 8021:2014 standards for moisture content and calorific value; however, high ash content remains a challenge. Adding additives such as activated charcoal and vegetable oil and using a ball mill grinding method increased the density and compressive strength of the biopellets. Using non-edible waste supports sustainability and energy diversification principles, demonstrating biopellets' great potential as a clean energy transition solution in Indonesia.