Govt mandates 20% Ethanol-blended petrol with minimum 95 RON nationwide from April 1 to cut imports and emissions

The Centre has directed oil marketing companies to retail petrol blended with up to 20% Ethanol, ensuring a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95 nationwide starting April 1, as per a notification issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

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All about the new Ethanol mandate

RON, or Research Octane Number, determines the measure of a fuel's resistance to engine knocking (pre-ignition). When fuel burns unevenly inside the engine, it causes a pinging sound, loss of power and possible engine damage over time.

"The Central Government hereby directs that the oil companies shall sell Ethanol Blended Motor Spirit with a percentage of Ethanol up to twenty per cent as per the Bureau of Indian Standards specifications and having a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95, in the States and the Union territories," according to the notification dated February 17.

Reportedly, in special circumstances, the government may allow the oil marketing companies to sell ethanol-blended petrol that meets only the required Research Octane Number specifications, according to the Bureau of Indian Standards for specific periods and regions, the notification said.

Made from sugarcane, maize, or grain, ethanol is renewable, domestically produced, and burns cleaner than pure petrol.

Now that the government has mandated ethanol blending in petrol, it would help cut oil imports and also reduce emissions.

This mandate also supports farmers by boosting demand for sugarcane, maize and agricultural surplus.

Most vehicles built in India from 2023 to 2025 onward are engineered to operate on E20 fuel, and industry officials told Press Trust of India that no major issues are anticipated.

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