| PAPER | ARTICLES | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| GS PT Facts | E-20 Fuel | Infrastructure |
Recently, India’s auto industry lobby confirmed that car manufacturers will continue to honor warranties, even if older vehicles, not originally designed for higher ethanol fuels, use E20 fuel. This statement comes as the country moves forward with its plan to increase ethanol blending in automotive fuel.
E-20 fuel is a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline. It is part of India's efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote cleaner, more sustainable alternatives.
Ethanol blending is the process of mixing ethanol (a renewable biofuel) with petrol to create a cleaner and more sustainable fuel. Ethanol is typically derived from biomass sources, such as sugarcane, maize, rice, and other agricultural products.
Reduced Fossil Fuel Dependence:
Ethanol is derived from renewable sources, reducing India’s dependence on crude oil imports.
Cleaner Emissions:
By increasing the oxygen content of the fuel, ethanol blending leads to lower emissions and cleaner combustion.
Support for the Agricultural Sector:
Since ethanol in India is primarily produced from sugarcane molasses, rice, and maize, it boosts the agricultural economy by creating additional demand for crops.
Sustainability:
Ethanol blending supports India’s goal of using greener fuels to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
India started its journey toward ethanol blending in 2003 with the launch of the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme. Since then, India has made significant strides in ethanol blending, aiming to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and achieve energy security.
10% blend: Achieved in 2021-22.
12.06% blend: Achieved in 2022-23.
14.06% blend: Achieved in 2023-24.
20% blend (E20): Target set for July 2025, initially intended for 2030.
This ambitious target of E20 aims to further reduce India’s dependence on imported crude oil while promoting a cleaner environment.
Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive odor. It has the chemical formula C₂H₅OH and is made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms.
Nontoxic and biodegradable: Pure ethanol is safe for the environment and breaks down into harmless substances if spilled.
Fuel Ethanol: While pure ethanol is safe, fuel ethanol contains denaturants to make it undrinkable.
Ethanol can be produced from various sources:
Crops: Common sources include sugarcane, corn, barley, and wheat.
Cellulosic Materials: Ethanol can also be made from agricultural residues, such as straw, wood, and other biomass.
This process promotes the use of renewable resources and reduces dependence on traditional fossil fuels like gasoline and diesel.
The transition to E20 fuel marks a significant step in India’s quest to reduce fossil fuel reliance, lower emissions, and promote sustainability. By increasing ethanol blending in fuel, the country is not only contributing to cleaner air and a greener environment but also providing a boost to the agriculture sector. The ongoing efforts are in line with India's broader energy security and environmental goal
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In every Lecture. Director Sir will provide conceptual understanding with around 800 Mindmaps.
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