The Centre has directed oil companies to sell petrol with up to 20% ethanol and a minimum Research Octane Number of 95 across all states and Union Territories from April 1, 2026.
"The central government hereby directs that oil companies shall sell ethanol-blended motor spirit (petrol) with percentage of ethanol up to 20 per cent as per the Bureau of Indian Standards specifications and having minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95, in states and the Union Territories," oil ministry stated in a notification.
Made from sugarcane, maize or grain ethanol is renewable, domestically produced and has cleaner burning than pure petrol.
Essentially, the government's mandate is aimed at reducing emissions and supporting farmers as it boosts demand for sugarcane, maize and agricultural surplus. Exceptions can be allowed in special situations, for specific regions and for a limited time, the central government said.
What Changes?
Most vehicles manufactured in India from 2023-2025 onward are designed to run on E20 and no major issues are expected, industry officials highlighted. Older vehicles may, however, see a slight 3-7% drop in mileage and rubber or plastic components may wear.
The push for minimum RON 95 is to prevent engine damage. RON, or Research Octane Number, is a measure of a fuel's resistance to engine knocking (pre-ignition). Knocking occurs when fuel burns unevenly inside the engine, causing pinging sound, loss of power and possible engine damage over time.
The higher the RON, the more resistant the fuel is to knocking. Simply put, octane is like a fuel's 'self-control under pressure' - higher RON means fuel stays stable under high compression. Ethanol naturally has a high octane value (around 108 RON). Blending 20% ethanol in petrol, amplifies its knock resistance.
Government's Clarification On Concerns
In an official clarification issued in August last year, the government had explained how biofuels and natural gas are India's bridge fuels, and represent a viable, non-disruptive transition towards meeting the country's commitments to a greener world.
The mandate, it had said, would be in line with India's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) wherein India has signed up to Net Zero by 2070.
"A study on life cycle emissions of Ethanol done by NITI Aayog has said that GHG emissions in case of use of sugarcane and maize based Ethanol are less by 65% and 50%, respectively than those of petrol," the Centre stated in a press release.
Further, it added that apart from pollution reduction, the mandate produces benefits for the rural economy, eliminates sugarcane arrears and improves the viability of maize cultivation in the country.
"More income to farmers has not only contributed to furthering their well-being but has also helped decisively tackle the challenge of suicides by farmers. It may be recalled that in areas like Vidarbha farmers suicides were widespread a few years ago," the government said.
Driven by India achieving 10% ethanol doping in petrol in June 2022 - five months ahead of the target date - the government advanced 20% blending to 2025-26 from 2030. Most pumps in the country now sell E20 or petrol blended with 20% ethanol.
(With inputs from PTI)
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