ENERGY POTENTIAL OF OIL PALM MESOCARP AS A RENEWABLE SOLID FUEL

The increasing demand for sustainable energy has intensified interest in agricultural residues as alternative solid-fuel resources. Oil palm mesocarp, a lignocellulosic residue generated during palm oil extraction, represents a potential feedstock for renewable energy production, particularly in oil palm-producing regions. This study evaluated the energy potential of oil palm mesocarp as a renewable solid fuel by characterizing its proximate composition and calorific value. Moisture content, volatile matter, ash content, and fixed carbon were determined using the analytical procedures reported in the study, while calorific value was measured using a bomb calorimeter in accordance with ISO 18125. The results showed that oil palm mesocarp had a moisture content of 8.36%, volatile matter of 71.48%, fixed carbon of 15.34%, and ash content of 4.82%. Its calorific value was 19.76 MJ/kg, indicating appreciable energy content and potential suitability for solid-biofuel applications. The relatively low moisture content suggests reduced drying requirements, while the high volatile matter content indicates favorable ignition characteristics. The measured ash content also suggests a comparatively modest inorganic residue fraction following combustion. In comparison with the conventional solid fuels discussed in the study, the calorific value of oil palm mesocarp was comparable to that of some wood fuels, although lower than that of wood charcoal. These findings demonstrate the potential of oil palm mesocarp as a renewable solid-fuel feedstock and support its valorization as an agricultural waste-to-energy resource. Further investigation of briquette durability, combustion emissions, and performance under controlled operating conditions is recommended to establish its practical applicability for domestic and industrial energy systems.