Greece could substitute 15 percent of the petrol it consumes with bioenergy fuels in the next few years, industry experts said yesterday.

According to information presented at a conference on bioenergy organized by the German-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce in Thessaloniki, more European countries are developing energy crops that can produce alternative sources of fuel.

Germany and Italy are leading the way while Greece only recently passed legislation that brings its laws in line with EU directives.

The European Commission has instructed member states to replace 5.75 percent of gasoline consumed with other energy sources by 2010. Experts estimate that Greece is well positioned to develop biodiesel fuels since the crops take well to Mediterranean soil.