The Ethanol Blended Petrol Program
Context:
The Indian government is determined to boost ethanol production and supply for the Ethanol Blended with Petrol (EBP) Programme, particularly during surplus seasons. Policy revisions have resulted in a significant rise in molasses-based distilleries’ capacity, soaring from 215 crore liters in 2014 to an impressive 811 crore liters over the past 9 years.
Relevance:
GS-03 (Environment and Ecology)
Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme:
- The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme was launched in 2003 to promote the use of renewable fuels and reduce India’s dependence on imported energy.
- The government aims to increase the blending of ethanol in petrol from 5% to 10% by 2022 and eventually to 20% (E20) by 2030.
- The program is implemented based on the National Policy on Biofuels, ensuring a systematic approach.
- Oil marketing companies (OMCs) are responsible for procuring ethanol from domestic sources at government-fixed prices.
- Initially, ethanol production relied on sugarcane, but the program has now expanded to include other sources like maize, bajra, and fruit and vegetable waste.
- This expansion benefits farmers by allowing them to sell surplus agricultural produce and supports ethanol production in the country.
- Ethanol blending refers to the process of combining at least 99% pure ethyl alcohol, derived from agricultural products, with petrol.
- The advantages of ethanol blending include its renewable nature, lower vehicular emissions due to enhanced combustion, and reduction in the country’s carbon footprint.
- Ethanol blending can potentially save billions of dollars in annual auto fuel imports and provide additional income to farmers.
- The Ethanol Blended Petrol Program represents India’s commitment to a sustainable and self-sufficient energy ecosystem, with a focus on both environmental and economic benefits.
