At the height of the 2008 oil crisis when emerging market governments were seeking paths to reducing their diesel dependence, Jatropha and biofuels emerged as promising solution. Riding the coat tails of initial successes in India, Jatropha Curcas, considered a hardy plant with seeds containing attractive oil properties was quickly talked about as a viable solution for biofuel production in West Africa and South East Asia.

Since that time the challenges faced in India with Jatropha production have come to light and the hype of biofuel companies in countries such as Ghana has faded.  Thus it is with much surprise and interest that we learn that the aviation industry has taken an interest in Jatropha and biofuels as a viable means to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels.

It is too soon to say whether Jatropha, and biofuels in general, will be viable solution for the aviation industry but the R&D investment is a welcomed addition to the alternative energy sector.  Big business and big industry bring with them the money, resources and intellectual capacity to crack the toughest issues. So who knows, maybe Jatropha will overcome its failed promises and fuel an off-grid community and mobile tower near you.

Photo Source: GE Ecomagination Blog