Ethanol Blending Production
Ethanol blending refers to the blending of ethanol (ethyl alcohol) exclusively with petrol which is a minimum of 99% pure and derived from agricultural produce such as sugarcane, maize, etc.
The Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD) is responsible for managing ethanol manufacturing in the country. The ethanol required may be produced using surplus wheat and rice from FCI, maize, fruit and vegetable wastes, etc. The ethanol supply has dramatically improved from 38 crore L to 173 crore L from 2013-2014 to 2019-2020.
Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Program
Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme (EBP) is an initiative by the Government of India (GoI) under the National Policy on Biofuels. It was launched in the year 2003. It aims to promote renewable energy, reduce the import of fuels from other countries, and promote the use of environment-friendly fuels.
The government aims to mix 5% ethanol in fuel by 2020, which will increase by 20% (E20) by 2030. Ethanol needed to be blended will be sourced from domestic sources and at prices fixed by the government. This initiative will impact various sectors, including agriculture, environment, energy, etc. It will also help the farmers to earn extra income as the ethanol will be produced as a side product from Sugarcane, Maize, Bajra, Fruit and Vegetable wastes, etc.