Ethanol is being blended in petrol to achieve the objectives of reducing import dependence, promote clean fuel and provide boost to agriculture.
Ethanol, an anhydrous ethyl alcohol having chemical formula of C2H5OH, can be produced from sugarcane, maize, wheat, etc which are having high starch content.
In India, ethanol is mainly produced from sugarcane molasses by fermentation process.
Since ethanol is produced from plants that harness the power of the sun, ethanol is also considered as renewable fuel.
Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme was launched in January, 2003.
Department of Food & Public Distribution has introduced a Scheme for extending financial assistance to sugar mills for enhancement and augmentation of ethanol production capacity.
Govt has directed Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to sell 10% ethanol blended petrol as per Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) specifications.
The Government has advanced the country’s target of 20 per cent ethanol blending in petrol by five years to 2025, from 2030.