India Achieves 20% Ethanol Blending in Petrol Ahead of Schedule, Plans Higher Blends and SAF Adoption.

India has achieved 20% ethanol blending in petrol five years ahead of the revised 2025 target, saving over ₹1.4 lakh crore in foreign exchange and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The government will now move towards higher ethanol blends and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) adoption in a phased manner, with a 1% blending target for international flights by 2027 and 2% by 2028.

India has achieved a significant milestone in its ethanol blending journey, reaching 20% ethanol in petrol five years ahead of the revised 2025 target. This achievement, announced by Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri at the Pioneer Biofuels 360 Summit, highlights the country's commitment to clean energy and environmental sustainability [2].

The ethanol-blended petrol (EBP) program has not only met but exceeded the initial targets, saving over ₹1.4 lakh crore in foreign exchange and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The government's ambitious goals have been met through innovative ethanol production methods, such as 2G ethanol refineries that convert agricultural waste into fuel [2].

With this success, the government is now poised to move towards higher ethanol blends and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) adoption in a phased manner. By 2027, India aims to achieve a 1% blending target for international flights, and this will be increased to 2% by 2028. These targets are part of a broader strategy to reduce the country's dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable transportation [2].

The ethanol blending program has also brought economic benefits, with farmers benefiting from increased income due to the demand for ethanol production. The program has led to cleaner air and better engine performance, further enhancing the environmental and economic gains [2].

As India continues to push the boundaries of its clean energy goals, the ethanol blending program serves as a model for other countries seeking to transition to renewable and sustainable energy sources. The government's commitment to these targets indicates a long-term vision for a greener and more sustainable future.

References:
[1] https://seekingalpha.com/news/4482134-aemetis-targets-550000-mmbtu-rng-production-capacity-in-2025-as-regulatory-credits-drive
[2] https://www.dailypioneer.com/2025/page1/ethanol-journey-unstoppable--puri-at-biofuels-360-summit.html