The Centre is preparing for the next phase of its biofuel programme by planning to allow blending of up to 15 per cent isobutanol with diesel, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said.
The move is aimed at reducing India's dependence on imported fossil fuels while advancing cleaner transport fuels, Moneycontrol said.
'Ethanol Can't Be Blended With Diesel'
Explaining the government's roadmap for alternative fuels, Gadkari said ethanol cannot be blended directly with diesel, prompting efforts to convert ethanol into isobutanol.
"Ethanol can't be blended directly with diesel, so we're producing isobutanol from ethanol."
He added, "Isobutanol can serve as an alternative to diesel."
Pilot Projects Show Encouraging Results
Gadkari said the government is working towards enabling a 15 per cent isobutanol blend in diesel, describing it as an important step in India's energy security strategy.
According to the minister, pilot projects have already delivered encouraging results.
"We've successfully run two generator sets on 100 per cent ethanol and isobutanol. This proves engines can be built to operate on these fuels," he said.
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Why Isobutanol Is Being Considered
The minister said isobutanol is being developed as an alternative fuel because of its compatibility with diesel engines and its potential to support cleaner transportation.
Policymakers believe wider adoption of isobutanol could help reduce crude oil imports while increasing demand for domestically produced biofuels.
Centre Defends E20 Ethanol Programme
Gadkari's remarks come days after the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas defended the government's E20 ethanol blending programme against what it described as misleading claims circulating on social media.
The ministry rejected allegations that ethanol production places excessive pressure on water resources, damages vehicle engines, voids insurance or manufacturer warranties, or harms the environment. It said the programme is backed by scientific research, regulatory oversight and international experience with blended fuels.
The ministry also said India achieved its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending in petrol in December 2025, ahead of schedule.
Rs 1.9 Lakh Crore Forex Savings
According to official figures, the ethanol blending programme has resulted in foreign exchange savings exceeding Rs 1.9 lakh crore. The government also said the initiative has reduced dependence on crude oil imports, lowered carbon emissions and increased income opportunities for farmers by boosting demand for ethanol feedstock.
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