Alternative Fuel for Transportation Systems
10% Blending of Ethanol Mandatory From This Year
Under alternative
fuel for transportation systems, 10% Ethanol Blended
Petrol (EBP) becomes mandatory from coming October.
Earlier 5% blending of Ethanol with petrol was made
mandatory by the Government since 9th October 2007 in
the Country and 10% blending was made optional. During
the last three years the Government has taken various
steps to develop and promote use of alternative fuels
like ethanol, bio-diesel and hydrogen for transport
applications.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural
Gas (MoP&NG) has mandated the use of 5% Ethanol
Blended Petrol (EBP), subject to commercial viability
in the entire country with effect from 1st November
2006. Though North-Eastern States, Jammu & Kashmir,
Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshdweep have been
exempted. As a result, release of 5% EBP has commenced
at all locations in 15 States and 4 Union Territories.
The modalities for implementation
are being worked out by the Ministry of Petroleum &
Natural Gas in consultation with stakeholders. A broad
based programme for research & development, production
and utilization of bio-diesel is under implementation
by different Ministries.
The Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy (MNRE) has also prepared a Draft National Policy
on Bio-fuels. Under its ongoing Research, Development
and Demonstration Programmes, MNRE has supported field
trials of different blends of bio-diesel in diesel cars,
use of hydrogen as fuel in motorcycles and three-wheelers
and introduction of hydrogen - compressed natural gas
(CNG) blends in different vehicles. In addition, support
is also being provided for development & promotion
of battery operated vehicles.
Source:
Press Information Bureau Date: March 28, 2008
