Ethanol (C2H5OH) or ethyl alcohol is a renewable fuel made from various plant materials collectively known as "biomass” (e.g., sugarcane, maize, wheat, and other crops with high starch content).
- It is naturally produced by the fermentation of sugars by yeasts or via petrochemical processes such as ethylene hydration.
Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme
- Genesis: Launched in 2003 to promote blending of ethanol in petrol.
- Target: National Policy on Biofuels (2018), as amended in 2022, advanced the target of 20% blending of ethanol in petrol to 2025-26 from 2030.
- The Policy allowed use of: Sugarcane Juice, Sugar Beet, Cassava, Damaged food grains, Rotten Potatoes, unfit for human consumption for ethanol production.
- The policy allowed: Surplus food grains to be used for ethanol production and blending with petrol, ensuring fair prices for farmers during surplus phases.
- Achievements:
- Ethanol production: Surged from 38 crore litres in 2014 to over 660 crore litres in 2025.
- Saved ₹1.36 lakh crore in forex; Paid approx. ₹1.2 lakh crore to farmers; Cut approx. 700 lakh tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
Measures taken to boost Ethanol Blending Programme
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