Vehicle owners deserve support on use of ethanol-blended fuel
The article discusses the benefits and challenges of ethanol blending in petrol. While ethanol blending offers import substitution and lower prices, potentially injecting $10 billion into the Indian economy annually, concerns exist regarding food security, efficiency penalties, and impact on older vehicles. The government promotes C-heavy molasses, broken rice, and maize for ethanol production to mitigate food security issues. However, import of farm inputs for these crops can dent forex savings. Ethanol can corrode fuel systems, though modern vehicles (BS 2 onwards) are compatible up to E15. India aims for E20 and is developing E27 norms, but transparency from automakers and government backing for insurance claims are crucial.
Key Points
- Ethanol blending offers import substitution and lower prices, potentially boosting the Indian economy.
- Challenges include food security concerns, efficiency penalties, and compatibility issues with older vehicles.
- India is progressing towards E20 and E27 ethanol-blended fuels, taking cues from Brazil.
- Transparency from automakers regarding vehicle compatibility and government support for insurance claims are essential for policy success.
Exam Facts
- Ethanol blending up to 20% can ensure $10 billion in Indian pockets annually.
- Vehicles manufactured as per Euro 2, U.S. Tier 1, and India's BS 2 norms (since 2001) are compatible for ethanol use up to E15.
- India has adopted two ethanol-specific norms and is expected to come up with E27, taking a cue from Brazil.
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