| Upsc Relevance– Prelims Focus on ethanol blending levels (E10, E20), biofuel types (1G, 2G), National Policy on Biofuels (2018), ethanol properties (corrosive, low energy density), vehicle compatibility, and emission benefits. Important for Environment, Science-Tech, and Energy Economy. Mains Relevant under GS-3 (Environment & Economy). Ethanol blending links energy security, emission reduction, and sustainable transport. Challenges include engine corrosion, mileage drop, and tech readiness. Questions may explore India’s green mobility roadmap, flex-fuel policy, and R&D innovation needs. |
Why in News?
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) has recently clarified that ethanol-blended petrol causes only a marginal drop in mileage, countering concerns circulating on social media about potential engine damage and performance issues associated with E20 (20% ethanol blend) fuel. Industry experts, however, have raised valid concerns regarding engine corrosion, material degradation, and compatibility with older vehicles.
Background
- India launched its ethanol blending programme (EBP) in 2003 to reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels and promote biofuels.
- The National Bio-Energy Policy (2018) and Ethanol Blending Roadmap (2020-25) target 20% ethanol blending (E20) by 2025.
- Ethanol is produced mainly from sugarcane molasses, rice, and maize. It burns cleaner than petrol and reduces carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions.
- The push for ethanol also supports sugarcane farmers, boosts rural income, and promotes the circular economy.
Benefits of Ethanol Blending
- Reduced Crude Oil Import Bill: Saves foreign exchange by reducing dependence on costly oil imports.
- Lower Emissions: Ethanol burns cleaner and emits fewer greenhouse gases and air pollutants.
- Farmer Income Support: Provides assured market for sugarcane and other biofuel crops.
- Waste Management: Uses agricultural residues and industrial waste for 2G ethanol.
Challenges Highlighted in Ethanol (E20) Fuel Adoption in India
1. Corrosion and Engine Compatibility
- Ethanol is hydrophilic – it absorbs water from the atmosphere, leading to phase separation.
- This results in metal corrosion in fuel tanks, pipes, injectors, engines, and exhaust systems.
- Rubber and plastic parts (gaskets, seals, fuel hoses) degrade over time unless replaced with ethanol-resistant materials.
2. Drop in Mileage
- Ethanol has lower energy density than petrol. As a result:
- Vehicles not optimised for E20 may see a 3–6% mileage reduction.
- Vehicles designed for E10 and recalibrated for E20 may see 1–2% drop.
- Efficiency can be improved through engine tuning, but retrofitting costs apply for older models.
3. Cold Start & Combustion Issues
- Ethanol alters air-fuel ratio, affecting combustion in non-E20-compatible engines.
- Leads to knocking, reduced performance, hard cold starts, and engine wear.
4. Infrastructure & Distribution Challenges
- Fuel stations need separate storage and dispensing units for E20.
- Logistics and segregation of ethanol and petrol during transportation remain a bottleneck.
5. Food vs Fuel Debate
- Sugarcane cultivation for ethanol requires large quantities of water, raising concerns over food security and water use efficiency, especially in drought-prone states.
Government Steps Taken
- Flex-fuel vehicle norms introduced by MoRTH; E20-compliant vehicles mandated from April 2023.
- Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) are progressively rolling out E20 at fuel stations in select cities.
- Introduction of second-generation ethanol from crop residues (e.g. stubble) to reduce food crop dependence.
- Financial incentives and viability gap funding for setting up bio-refineries.
Industry Response
- Hero MotoCorp and other manufacturers are updating models with E20-compliant materials (new gaskets, O-rings, fuel tubes).
- Companies have warned that older vehicles (pre-2023) may face severe mechanical issues unless retrofitted.
Way Forward
- Phase-wise Implementation:
Staggered rollout of E20 fuel in regions where vehicles are already E20-ready. - Public Awareness Campaigns:
Educate vehicle owners about engine compatibility, retrofitting requirements, and potential risks of E20 usage in older vehicles. - Incentivise Retrofitting:
Provide financial or tax support for modifying older vehicles to make them E20-compliant. - Strengthen R&D in 2G Ethanol:
Promote crop-residue-based ethanol to resolve food vs fuel and water stress concerns. - Robust Testing and Certification:
Mandate ethanol-blend testing and certification standards for both vehicles and fuels. - Infrastructure Readiness:
Expand ethanol storage, blending, and distribution networks across India.
Conclusion
The ethanol blending programme is a vital pillar of India’s energy transition and climate goals. However, its success hinges on addressing the technical challenges related to engine compatibility, mileage, and corrosion. A calibrated and inclusive approach, guided by science and stakeholder consultation, can ensure that India reaps the dual benefits of clean energy and energy independence without harming consumer interests or environmental sustainability.
UPSC Prelims PYQ
Q. With reference to biofuels, consider the following statements: (UPSC Prelims 2020)
- Biodiesel is produced from animal fats and vegetable oils.
- In India, ethanol is extracted from sugarcane only.
- Alcohol-based fuels are not used in compression ignition engines.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1 only
Answer: A
UPSC Mains Previous Year Questions
Q. Biofuels have the potential to replace fossil fuels. In this context, examine the challenges and prospects of ethanol blending in India. (UPSC 2023, GS-3)
Q. “Clean energy is the order of the day.” Describe briefly India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of growing energy needs. (UPSC 2022, GS-3)
SOURCE- THE HINDU
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