Centre Takes Key Decision on Ethanol Blending in Diesel

The Centre has decided to put its proposal to blend ethanol with diesel on hold after tests found that the addition significantly lowers the fuel’s flash point. Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi informed the Rajya Sabha that public-sector oil companies had conducted tests through their research and development centres, in collaboration with accredited laboratories, automobile manufacturers and other technical organisations. Since ethanol-blended diesel failed to meet the prescribed flash point standards, the government has decided not to proceed with the plan for now, citing fuel storage, transportation and handling safety concerns.

A fuel’s flash point is the lowest temperature at which its vapour can ignite momentarily when exposed to an external ignition source such as a flame or spark. A lower flash point can increase safety risks during storage and transportation, making it an important parameter for fuel handling facilities and petrol pumps. Meanwhile, the Centre has said there is currently no decision to increase ethanol blending in petrol beyond E20, which contains 20% ethanol. Any proposal to go beyond E20 will be considered only after scientific and technical studies and consultations with automobile companies, oil firms and research institutions.

The government has maintained that E20 petrol is safe based on laboratory tests and field trials conducted by organisations including the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Indian Oil Corporation and Indian Institute of Petroleum. The studies examined engine life, driving performance, starting, corrosion, material compatibility and fuel efficiency. The Centre also said there is no verified evidence linking ethanol blended petrol to widespread engine failures or vehicle breakdowns in older vehicles. E15+ fuel has been in use for more than three years, while E19-E20 has been used for over two years.