Ethanol Blending for Sustainable Energy Transition in India

Context:

On World Biofuel Day 2025, India reviewed progress towards achieving 20% ethanol blending with petrol by 2025 to reduce crude oil imports, enhance energy security, and promote cleaner fuels.

Ethanol

A biofuel produced from biomass such as sugarcane, maize, rice, and other agricultural residues.
Acts as an oxygenate to petrol, improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions.

Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP):

Initiated in 2003; aimed initially at 5% blending, now targeting 20% blending (E20) by 2025.
Managed by the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas (MoPNG) with procurement handled by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

Benefits of Ethanol Blending:

Reducing Oil Imports: Lowers India’s dependence on imported crude oil, helping manage the trade deficit.
Energy Security: Diversifies fuel sources and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
Environmental Gains: Reduces carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and particulate emissions.
Agricultural Income: Provides an additional market for sugarcane and surplus grain, supporting rural farmers.
Economic Efficiency: Reduces expenditure on crude oil imports; enhances domestic fuel supply stability.

Challenges:

Feedstock Availability: Reliance on sugarcane may affect water sustainability.
Water Consumption: High for certain feedstocks, leading to environmental concerns.
Engine Compatibility: Older vehicles may need modifications for higher blends.
Price & Logistics: Storage, blending, and distribution infrastructure challenges.

Government Measures:

National Policy on Biofuels (2018, amended 2022) promotes use of various feedstocks including damaged food grains, maize, and surplus rice.
Incentives for second-generation ethanol production from agricultural residues.

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