India is shifting towards cleaner and greener energy alternatives, and one of the big steps in this direction has been the launch of E20 fuel. E20 fuel is a mixture of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol that is meant to lower carbon emissions and decrease reliance on fossil fuel. These are 10 important things you should know about E20 fuel.
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What is E20 fuel?
E20 is a 20% ethanol blend with 80% petrol. Ethanol, which comes largely from sugarcane, corn, and crop residues, is a renewable fuel biofuel that cuts the country’s dependence on crude oil.
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Target of Government
The target of the government is to make 20% of ethanol blending by 2025, bringing forward the target by five years from the previous target of 2030. This is in consonance with India’s larger energy transition strategy.
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Benefits to the Environment
E20 fuel reduces greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 35%, lowering pollution levels and helping urban air become cleaner.
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Economic impact
Blending ethanol, India can lower its oil import bill, benefit farmers by increased demand for sugarcane and other crops, and create jobs in the countryside.
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Vehicle compatibility
Not all cars can operate effectively on E20 fuel. Although newer vehicles are being made compatible with E20, older cars could experience problems such as compromised fuel efficiency and engine deterioration if not upgraded.
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Fuel efficiency issues
Ethanol is less energy dense than petrol, which could lower mileage by a small extent. Improved engine technology, however, can mitigate this effect.
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Availability in India
Oil marketing firms have started introducing E20 fuel in some cities and plan to progressively introduce it across the country by 2025.
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Benefit to farmers
The growing demand for ethanol is good for farmers in that there is now a market for surplus crops such as sugarcane, maize, and even rice to stabilize agricultural revenues.
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International practice
Brazil and America already sell ethanol-blended fuel on a large scale, with Brazil operating vehicles on 100% ethanol. India is also following this international trend.
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The road ahead
The success of adopting E20 fuel hinges on the development of compatible cars, increased production of ethanol, and countrywide availability. With policy support and infrastructure in place, it can be a game-changer for India’s energy security
Conclusion:
E20 fuel is an important milestone for India’s transition to sustainable mobility. Although there are issues regarding availability and vehicle modification, its long-term environmental, economic, and social advantages make it an essential component of India’s green energy transition.
Read More: E20 Fuel Explained: What It Is and How It Differs from Regular Petrol.
