Indian Oil’s Bongaigaon Refinery, located in Dhaligaon, Chirang district, has certified and launched E-20, a petrol blend with 20% ethanol. The official launch of E-20 was held on December 25, 2024, and inaugurated by NK Barua, ED & Refinery Head, BGR, in the presence of JJ Das, CGM(Pj), Mihir Singhal, CGM(TS&HSE), and other senior officials from both the Refinery and Marketing departments.
This achievement is a significant step towards the Government of India’s National Biofuels Policy, which aims to supply 20% ethanol-blended petrol. The introduction of ethanol-blended petrol, particularly with 20% ethanol, is a crucial move to reduce India’s dependency on imported crude oil for its growing energy needs. By incorporating 20% ethanol in petrol, this initiative will decrease the nation’s reliance on crude oil imports, contributing to long-term energy security.
Additionally, the move is expected to stimulate rural economic development. Ethanol production relies heavily on agricultural products such as sugarcane, maize, and other crops. Increased demand for ethanol will create opportunities for farmers and rural communities, boosting agricultural output and providing additional income sources.
The government has been implementing the Ethanol Blended with Petrol (EBP) Programme nationwide, under which Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) sell petrol blended with ethanol. The government has set a target of achieving 20% ethanol blending with petrol by 2025 under this programme.
Government is committed to meet its goals regarding reduction of emissions of Green House Gases (GHGs). Use of ethanol blended petrol reduced emission of Carbon Mono Oxide and other hydrocarbons. In-fact, increasing use of ethanol in transportation will switch Indian transportation sector to be greener and environment friendly.
BGR has been at the forefront of producing and supplying ethanol-blended petrol in the region, achieving several key milestones aligned with the Government of India’s National Biofuels Policy:
-13th August 2021: First launch of ethanol-blended petrol, dispatched via Tank Truck Lorry (TTL).
-19th January 2022: Launch of E-10 (10% ethanol blend).
-17th February 2022: First dispatch of ethanol-blended petrol via Railway rakes.
-14th April 2022: Industry-first unloading of a full rake of ethanol.
-16th February 2023: Launch of E-12 (12% ethanol blend).
-6th May 2024: Launch of E-15 (15% ethanol blend).
-25th December 2024: Launch of E-20 (20% ethanol blend).
Also read: IOC plans 1 per cent sustainable aviation fuel blending by July-September 2025
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