Synopsis
India has risen to become the third-largest biofuel producer globally, according to Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The country is making significant strides in ethanol blending, contributing to cleaner energy and economic benefits.Key Takeaways
- India is the 3rd largest biofuel producer.
- Achieved 19.6% ethanol blending in petrol.
- Set to reach 20% blending ahead of schedule.
- Significant savings of Rs 85,000 crore in foreign exchange.
- Over 400 outlets offering E100 fuel.
New Delhi, March 3 (NationPress) In the global energy sphere, India has established itself as the third largest biofuel producer, spearheading the transition towards cleaner and renewable energy sources, stated Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, on Monday.
The minister emphasized in a post on the X social media platform that “India has reached 19.6 percent ethanol blending in petrol as of January this year and is on track to achieve 20 percent shortly – five years ahead of the initial 2030 target, thereby decreasing fuel imports and emissions.”
Over the past decade, the ethanol blending initiatives have not only enhanced farmer incomes, as it is derived from sugarcane, but have also boosted rural employment, curbed CO2 emissions equivalent to planting 1.75 crore trees, and generated savings of Rs 85,000 crore in foreign exchange, according to official estimates.
Public sector oil companies, including Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum, have led this initiative by introducing various ethanol blends with petrol across the nation.
The oil marketing companies have formed partnerships with 131 dedicated ethanol plants. These facilities are expected to contribute an annual production capacity of 745 crore litres. OMCs have also invested in enhancing storage capacity and related infrastructure to accommodate higher blending ratios.
The minister further noted that, “E100 fuel is now available at over 400 outlets nationwide, propelling India closer to a cleaner, greener future. It is a journey marked by progress, innovation, and sustainability.”
The Petroleum Minister first introduced Ethanol (E) 100 fuel at 183 outlets of Indian Oil in March 2024. With a high-octane rating typically between 100-105, Ethanol 100 is perfect for high-performance engines, ensuring better efficiency and power output while minimizing environmental impact.
Moreover, Ethanol 100 can be utilized in a variety of vehicles, including flex-fuel vehicles designed to operate on gasoline, ethanol, or any blend thereof, demonstrating its practicality and potential to emerge as a mainstream fuel option with the appropriate infrastructure.
“From the tranquil town of Digboi to the world's leading energy markets, India’s petroleum journey is a testament to resilience and progress, guided by the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” stated Puri.
In this context, he noted that India has now become the 4th largest globally in LNG terminal capacity, ensuring a consistent and secure energy supply.
The country also ranks as the 4th largest globally in refining capacity, solidifying its position as a major energy hub. This has enabled India to emerge as the 7th largest exporter of refined petroleum products, enhancing global trade and fuel security, the minister added.
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