The Petroleum Division is preparing to approve a new policy that will introduce ethanol-blended petrol, aiming to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fuel and promote renewable energy. The plan proposes mixing up to 10% ethanol with petrol, following India’s example of using ethanol to lower oil imports, reports Profit.
The proposal will be presented to the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet for approval. India’s ethanol program has already helped reduce its reliance on imported oil, and the country is working toward achieving a 20% ethanol blend in petrol.
A government committee, formed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on June 23, 2024, and led by the Petroleum Minister and Finance Minister, has finalized the plan. The strategy encourages oil refineries to voluntarily begin with a 1-5% ethanol blend before increasing the ratio over time.
The policy will not be mandatory for oil companies or refineries, but they will be encouraged to participate. Pakistan previously attempted a similar program in 2009-10, introducing E-10 petrol (10% ethanol) in Sindh and Punjab. However, the initiative was discontinued after a year due to limited ethanol supply, concerns from car manufacturers, and rising ethanol prices.
To ensure the success of the new policy, a government committee will monitor its progress every six months and make adjustments if needed. The long-term goal is to increase ethanol production and explore alternative sources beyond sugarcane molasses. The government is also working with car manufacturers to develop engines that can efficiently run on higher ethanol blends.
For detailed information and further insights, please refer to BioEnergyTimes.com, which provides the latest news about the Ethanol Industry
