In India, soon at petrol pumps, customers may get the option to choose different types of ethanol mixed petrol according to their vehicle. The government is preparing to launch many ethanol blended petrols like E20, E22, E25 and E30 in the market. Its objective is to reduce dependence on crude oil imports and promote clean fuel.
The government has instructed state oil companies Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum as well as private companies Jio-BP Mobility, Nayara Energy and Shell to prepare the necessary infrastructure.
There will be different labeling on petrol pumps
Under the new system, each ethanol blended fuel will have separate identification at petrol pumps. It will be clearly written on the dispenser how much ethanol is mixed in petrol, so that customers can choose the right option according to their vehicle. For this, a separate storage tank, blending system and quality monitoring system will also be prepared.
At present, E20 petrol is available in most of the petrol pumps in the country. However, the ethanol industry had been demanding more than 20 percent blending for a long time. Industry experts say that ethanol production in India has now become excessive, hence it is necessary to bring new options.
Efforts to reduce dependence on crude oil
India is the third largest oil consumer in the world and imports a major part of its requirement. Amidst the ongoing tension in West Asia and fluctuating crude oil prices, the government is looking at ethanol as a major option.
According to government data, between November 2014 and February 2026, the country has saved about Rs 1.7 lakh crore due to ethanol blending. Besides, there has also been a huge reduction in carbon emissions.
Debate continues regarding mileage and engine
However, there is concern among people about the mileage and engine performance of petrol with high ethanol content. But the government says that fuel like E20 improves vehicle pickup and does not make much difference in mileage. Experts believe that in the coming times, in India too, like Brazil, customers will be able to choose petrol with different ethanol blends as per their needs.
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