Why India Desires to Promote Ethanol Fuel

Ethanol fuel is a renewable alcohol, which is produced from agricultural feedstock, which includes sugarcane, maize, surplus grains, and molasses. Chemically, it is the same molecule represented by the formula C₂H₅OH.

There are three major reasons why India desires to promote ethanol fuel

1. Ruduce Oil import

Reduce oil; 84% of crude oil requirements are imported. When refined, both diesel and petrol are obtained from crude oil. Few countries from which India imports crude oil are the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. By switching to Ethanol, it can reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign oil.

Govt of India has also taken these crucial steps to reduce oil imports

-It has launched the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (QLAP)

-Initiation of the National Gas Hydrate Programme (NGHP) so that the gas hydrates may be another energy source.

-Use of undergrown coal gasification so that energy demands can be met internally.

Coal Bed Methane is being considered as another energy source

-Subsidy plans are being announced by the government so that oil prices can be reduced.

2. Support Farmers

Ethanol production helps create additional demand for sugarcane and grains, thus helping the farmers to earn more and improve their standard of living.

3. Reduce Pollution

Ethanol help burn cleaner than traditional petrol and it can also help reduce carbon emissions.

One of the major drawback of the ethanol is lower mileage. Those who are very concerned about the mileage might not easily switch to ethanol very early but when there is no alternative and fuel cost is very high, ethanol fuel can emerge as an winner.