1. Why is the ethanol blending programme significant in the context of biofuels?
The programme champions the use of ethanol, a renewable biofuel, aiming to blend it with petrol, which reduces carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
2. What biofuel-related target have the sugar millers proposed?
Sugar millers are eyeing a 50% average ethanol blending with petrol by 2030, enhancing the role of biofuels in India's energy mix.
3. How does the E-100 flex fuel vehicle fit into the biofuel initiative?
The E-100 FFVs are designed to operate on 10-100% ethanol-blended petrol, further promoting the use of biofuels and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.
4. What sources will contribute to the 30 billion litres of ethanol needed annually?
Sugarcane-based molasses will provide half, while biofuels from damaged grains, maize, and other organic materials will supplement the rest.
5. How will this biofuel initiative impact the economy and environment?
The push towards biofuels can save about $15 billion in foreign exchange by 2030, reduce petrol imports, and upsurge farmers’ income. Environmentally, it can curtail carbon footprints and combat climate change.
6. How is ISMA propelling the biofuel agenda forward?
The Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) created this ambitious roadmap and presented it to senior government bodies, emphasizing the importance of biofuels.
7. With the focus on biofuels, how will surplus sugar be utilized?
Biofuel production will utilize the excess sugar, converting it into ethanol, which aligns with the broader biofuel vision, reducing the need for sugar exports.
8. How will enhancing sugarcane yields benefit the biofuel strategy?
Increasing sugarcane yields, from 80 to 100 tonnes per hectare by 2030, will provide more raw material for ethanol production, thereby amplifying biofuel outputs.
9. How is the price of E-100 fuel, a biofuel, expected to be positioned?
The E-100 biofuel is projected to cost around ~70 per litre, inclusive of GST, making it a competitive alternative to conventional fuels.
10. Why are biofuels, like ethanol, viewed as a sustainable energy source?
Biofuels are renewable, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and are derived from organic materials, making them a green and sustainable energy option.
India's dedication to biofuels, particularly through the ethanol blending initiative, reflects a progressive step towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
