India's Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP): Opportunities and Challenges
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Indian Economy (Energy Security, Agriculture), Environment (Biofuels, Pollution), General Science (Properties of Ethanol, Fermentation).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy; Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation; Indian Economy (issues relating to mobilization of resources, agriculture).
Key Highlights from the News
India's target is to add 20% ethanol to petrol by 2025 (20% ethanol blending - E20).
The main objectives are to reduce carbon emissions and decrease oil imports.
Ethanol is a biofuel. It is produced from molasses, a byproduct of sugarcane, and from damaged food grains through a process called fermentation.
Ethanol has a lower calorific value than petrol but a higher octane number (which helps reduce engine knocking).
A key property of ethanol is its hygroscopic nature (ability to absorb moisture from the atmosphere). This can cause corrosion and damage to the fuel tank and rubber parts of older vehicles.
New vehicles with Electronic Control Units (ECUs) can adapt to E20 fuel. However, this is a major challenge for older vehicles without ECUs.
Brazil's ethanol project was implemented gradually over decades. However, there is criticism that India's E20 target is too rapid.
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