Synopsis: The government has mandated 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) from April 1, sparking attention among vehicle owners and industry stakeholders about its implications for fuel usage, emissions, and the automotive sector.
A recent government rule on 20% ethanol petrol has drawn significant attention, raising questions and discussions among vehicle owners, industry experts, and policymakers about its potential impact on the automotive sector.
Government Directive
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has directed all oil marketing companies (OMCs) to sell petrol blended with up to 20% ethanol (E20) starting April 1. The notification, issued on February 17, applies to all States and Union Territories, marking a major policy shift in India’s fuel regulations.
Fuel Specifications
The ethanol-blended petrol must comply with standards set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and maintain a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95. RON is a critical measure of a fuel’s resistance to engine knocking, ensuring smoother engine performance, reducing the risk of pre-ignition, and preventing long-term engine damage.
Under special circumstances, the government may allow OMCs to sell ethanol-blended petrol that meets only the RON norms, without fully adhering to other BIS specifications. Such relaxations will be applicable for specific regions and limited periods as deemed necessary.
What is Ethanol?
Ethanol is a renewable fuel derived from sugarcane, maize, grains, and other agricultural surplus. It burns cleaner than conventional petrol, resulting in lower emissions, and contributes to a greener and more sustainable energy mix.
Objective Behind the Move
The mandate aims to reduce India’s dependence on crude oil imports, lower vehicular emissions, and promote cleaner fuel usage. It also provides a boost to the agricultural sector by increasing demand for sugarcane, maize, and other feedstocks, thereby supporting farmers and strengthening India’s energy security.
The rollout of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) from April 1 marks a significant step toward cleaner and more sustainable fuel usage in India. For vehicle owners, it means adapting to a fuel that not only meets stricter Research Octane Number (RON) standards but also contributes to reduced emissions and improved environmental outcomes.
The move is designed to reduce reliance on crude oil imports, support farmers by creating additional demand for ethanol feedstocks like sugarcane and maize, and strengthen India’s overall energy security. While minor adjustments may be needed for some vehicles, the E20 mandate represents a long-term push toward greener mobility and a more self-reliant energy ecosystem.
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