As the race intensifies to find the next main stream renewable energy in the world one fuel source in particular that may just have what it takes to win is Dimethyl Ether otherwise known as (DME). DME is a clean burning colorless gas that is easy to liquefy and transport that has tremendous potential to replace LPG, LNG, diesel and gasoline as a fuel for power generation, in domestic applications and for diesel vehicles. DME provides an enormous opportunity to three key markets; power generation, domestic LPG substitute and an alternative to fuel. 

According to a report by Research and Markets China domestic production of DME saw a jump of 394% from 2006 to 2007. Furthermore the estimated production levels for China in 2008 are projected to reach 4.6 million tons and by years end of 2010 total domestic production levels in China will reach an astonishing 14.84 million tons. Providing an abundant source of alternative fuel for China one of the fastest growing economies in the world today. In response to these findings  a group of Chinese companies are collaborating to build China’s largest DME plant which includes energy power houses; China National Coal Group Corporation, China Petroleum and Chemical Corporation and the Shanghai-based Shenergy Group. 

Additionally major motor vehicle companies such as Volvo with the help from the Swedish Energy Agency whom granted Volvo $2.1 million, has taken initiative in their neck of the world pledging to test 14 trucks utilizing third generation DME engines. The testing will begin in late 2009 to early 2010 as part of a much wider project that is being orchestrated by BioDME a European project group that has already vowed to invest $45 million for the research and development of all aspects from biomass to fuel to include the distribution chain for DME. 

One company that is at the forefront of this technology is Alternative Fuel Technologies (OTC: AFTC.PK). AFTC provides solutions for tomorrow today by offering a wide array of innovative fuel system products and services with a cost effective pricing model to its customers across the globe. AFTC has customers in the United States, Europe, South America and Asia and is seeking to become one of the world’s premier providers for the DME industry. With this vast industry growing momentum everyday AFTC believes that DME can and will significantly reduce fuel costs, lower both engine exhaust and overall CO2 emissions and improve global energy security.

With that in mind AFTC has leveraged itself for success and is currently attending the 3rd International DME Conference & 5th Asian DME Conference in Shanghai this week. Proving that AFTC is ready to take on this global challenge we are faced with everyday by being a part of the solution not the problem.  Check back next week for an update on how things went for AFTC at the two conferences as we hope to have more insight on how things went for AFTC.