Is There Really No Engine Failure from Ethanol Blending? Hardeep Puri Explains
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a bold statement, Minister Hardeep Singh Puri reveals that India's transition to ethanol fuel has been remarkably successful, with zero engine failures reported. This article explores the positive impact of E20 on the environment, economy, and automotive industry, reinforcing India's commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Key Takeaways
- No engine failures reported since E20 implementation.
- E20 contributes to significant foreign exchange savings.
- India's ethanol blending target has advanced to 20% by 2025.
- 2G ethanol refineries are converting agricultural waste into clean fuel.
- Transformational growth seen in maize-based ethanol production.
New Delhi, Aug 9 (NationPress) Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri announced that there have been no reported cases of engine failure or breakdown since the implementation of ethanol 20 (E20) as a primary fuel over the past 10 months.
He referenced Brazil's experience, noting that the country has successfully utilized E27 for several years without complications.
Puri highlighted that certain interest groups are attempting to sow doubt and disrupt India's ethanol initiative. However, he is confident that these efforts will not prevail.
The transition to E20 is well underway, supported by robust policy measures, readiness from the industry, and acceptance from the public. There is no turning back, the minister asserted during the ‘Pioneer Biofuels 360 Summit’.
Discussing the advantages of E20, Puri pointed out its potential to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, enhance air quality, boost engine performance, and has already saved over Rs 1.4 lakh crore in foreign exchange.
He mentioned that 2G ethanol refineries located in Panipat and Numaligarh are converting agricultural waste, such as parali and bamboo, into ethanol, creating a beneficial solution for clean fuel, pollution control, and farmers' income.
Puri also emphasized the significant rise in maize-based ethanol production, which has surged from 0% in 2021-22 to 42% this year, describing it as a transformative change.
When asked about the success of the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) program, Puri noted that the initiative gained traction only after 2014, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration.
In 2014, ethanol blending was just 1.53%, and by 2022, India achieved 10% blending, surpassing its goal five months ahead of schedule.
The original goal of reaching 20% blending (E20) by 2030 has now been moved up to 2025, and this target has already been met in the current Ethanol Supply Year (ESY).
Puri attributed this success to ongoing policy reforms, including assured pricing for ethanol, permitting various feedstocks, and rapidly expanding distillation capabilities nationwide.
Regarding Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs), he stated that the Indian automotive sector has already proven its expertise, with Indian OEMs beginning to unveil prototypes for E85-compatible vehicles.
Point of View
The transition to ethanol blending represents a significant step towards sustainable energy. Minister Puri's assertions highlight the need for trust in innovative fuel solutions that promise both environmental benefits and economic growth. As India navigates this energy revolution, it’s crucial to support advancements that prioritize public welfare and ecological responsibility.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Has there been any engine failure reported due to ethanol blending?
No, Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that there have been no reported cases of engine failure since the introduction of ethanol 20 (E20) as a base fuel.
What are the benefits of using E20?
E20 offers numerous advantages, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality, enhanced engine performance, and significant foreign exchange savings.
When did India start seriously adopting ethanol blending?
Ethanol blending gained serious momentum in India after 2014, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration.
What is the target percentage of ethanol blending by 2025?
The target for ethanol blending has been advanced to 20% by the year 2025.
How is India supporting ethanol production?
India is supporting ethanol production through various policy reforms, including guaranteed pricing and allowing multiple feedstocks.
