The Centre on Thursday defended its ethanol blending programme, asserting that extensive testing and large-scale field experience have found no evidence that E20 petrol causes abnormal engine wear, corrosion or reduced vehicle life. The government said the initiative has enhanced India’s energy security while protecting consumers from fluctuations in global crude oil prices.
In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi said the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme was introduced through a phased and scientifically validated process involving NITI Aayog, automobile manufacturers, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and other technical institutions.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
According to the minister, laboratory studies and field trials conducted by ARAI, SIAM, Indian Oil Corporation and vehicle manufacturers confirmed that E20 fuel is safe under prescribed standards. He said legacy vehicles have not shown any significant variation in performance or abnormal wear due to ethanol-blended petrol.
The government noted that E15 fuel has been widely used for over three-and-a-half years, while E19-E20 blends have been in circulation for more than two-and-a-half years. During this period, over 20 crore two-wheelers and more than three crore petrol cars have operated on these fuels without verified evidence of widespread engine failure linked to ethanol blending.
The Centre also highlighted benefits such as higher octane ratings, improved combustion, smoother engine performance and lower emissions.
On pricing, Gopi said ethanol procurement is designed to ensure adequate supplies, support farmers and maintain energy security rather than maximise profits. He added that ethanol blending has reduced India’s dependence on imported crude oil and helped moderate domestic fuel prices despite sharp increases in global crude prices during the recent West Asian crisis.
Calling ethanol blending a strategic investment, the government said the programme strengthens energy security, supports farmer welfare and reduces exposure to volatile international oil markets.
