Ethanol Blended Petrol Adoption Soars, Reducing Costs and Boosting Sustainability
By CCN News | Published: Dec 03, 2024
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India's shift towards ethanol-blended petrol is accelerating, with the blending percentage now at a record 14.6% as of the 2023-24 Ethanol Supply Year (ESY). This marks a substantial increase from just 5% in 2018-19, reflecting the success of the government’s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme. Under the initiative, the volume of ethanol blended with petrol has surged from 188.6 crore litres in 2018-19 to over 700 crore litres in 2023-24, highlighting the growing adoption of sustainable fuel options in the country.
As of 2024, ethanol-blended petrol is now available at all retail outlets across the country, a significant rise from 43,168 outlets in 2019. This widespread availability ensures that more consumers can access cleaner, cost-effective fuel, contributing to the government's long-term energy and environmental goals. By reducing dependence on imported crude oil, the shift to ethanol is helping India save valuable foreign exchange, with an estimated Rs. 28,400 crore saved in the 2023-24 fiscal year alone.
Government Initiatives Drive Growth of Ethanol Blending Program
The government has introduced a range of measures to encourage ethanol production and blending, including the expansion of feedstocks for ethanol, price support for sugarcane-based ethanol, and financial incentives for ethanol production from grains and molasses. These efforts have not only helped reduce India’s reliance on expensive foreign oil but have also provided economic benefits for farmers. As of September 2024, the EBP programme has facilitated the payment of approximately Rs. 57,552 crore to farmers, boosting rural incomes and supporting India's agricultural sector.
The EBP programme has also contributed significantly to environmental goals, with an estimated reduction of 332 lakh metric tonnes of CO2 emissions over the past few years. Additionally, the program has led to the substitution of nearly 110 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil, marking a significant step towards energy independence and climate sustainability.
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