Due to gradual exhaustion of mineral oil reserves and the problems of climate change, studying the possibilities that can be offered by biofuel in improving agriculture, can constitute a useful solution. Therefore, this article falls within the framework of technologies transfer with the purpose of exploring the different possibilities by which red palm oil can substitute diesel oil as a source of energy.
Indeed, in the Moungo region of Cameroon, many palm oil extraction units are still processing palm nuts using diesel oil as a main source of energy. On the basis of the socioeconomic study held in the Moungo region of Cameroon, these palm oil extraction units are categorised according to different source of energy that is petrol, diesel oil, electricity and human energy. The mains processes through which palm nuts are being processed are described. These processes do not vary according to the sources of energy used and considering the different step involved in the process, the pressurization can be done using either manual press or motorized press. The analysis of the possibilities by which palm oil can substitute diesel oil as source of energy through comparison of cost of production according to the source of energy shows that all the extraction processes are efficient. However, expenses related to the supply of energy vary not only with the type but also with the quantity of source energy required by these presses
In term of ranking, we found that the cheapest one is electricity followed by diesel oil, petrol and human energy in that last order. Substitution of diesel oil with palm oil is cheaper for presses consuming 0.5 litre of diesel oil per ton of palm nut processed while with a press requiring 1 or 1.5 litres of diesel oil per ton of palm nut, electricity represents the most efficient energy source followed by palm oil, diesel, petrol and human energy. Palm oil as a source of energy is therefore shown to be the most efficient followed by diesel oil, petrol and human energy in none electrified areas of palm oil production.
In conclusion, our experiment suggests that it is possible to use palm oil as fuel in diesel engines. However, these engines should previously be adapted in order to avoid possible technical breakdowns. Beyond considerations of technological and economic feasibility, this study thus highlights the risk of competition between food use and energy conversation of some agricultural products, which could contribute to jeopardize food security in many contexts.