In a significant move towards environmental conservation and reducing dependence on traditional fuels, Bihar is set to open more than 40 exclusive ethanol blend petrol pumps. These pumps will exclusively provide petrol with a 20% ethanol mix, contributing to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape in the state. The launch is planned in the second phase, following the initiation of around 400 such pumps in states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka within the next six to eight months.
The push towards ethanol-mixed petrol aims not only to offer an eco-friendly alternative but also to decrease Bihar’s reliance on traditional petrol and diesel. At present, there are 236 Indian Oil Corporation petrol pumps and 20 BPCL petrol pumps offering E-20 ethanol-mixed petrol in Bihar. The plan is to establish 40 exclusive ethanol blend petrol pumps, responding to the increasing demand, particularly in rural areas.
Indian Oil’s Retail (Sales BSO) Manager, Kaushik Chatterjee, mentioned that discussions are currently ongoing at the ministry level, and no formal guidelines have been received from the government yet. However, the establishment of exclusive ethanol blend petrol pumps in Bihar could potentially result in a favorable market share for the state.
Currently, there are 236 Indian Oil petrol pumps providing E-20 ethanol-mixed petrol, with 97 under the Patna DO, 84 under the Muzaffarpur DO, and 55 under the Begusarai DO. Additionally, Bihar Petroleum Dealers Association President, Prabhat Kumar Singh, revealed that approximately 600 petrol pumps across the state are undergoing trials for the sale of E-20 ethanol-mixed petrol.
Ethanol production is also taking place in two HPCL plants located in Lauriya and Sugauli. The move towards ethanol-mixed petrol not only offers an alternative fuel source but also aligns with the government’s vision of promoting cleaner energy and reducing pollution. The upcoming exclusive ethanol blend petrol pumps in Bihar are expected to play a crucial role in achieving these goals.
Overview of Petrol Pumps in Bihar:
– IOC: 1916
– BPCL: 879
– HPCL: 710
– Total: 3505
Understanding Ethanol:
Ethanol is a specialized fuel known for its environmental benefits. It is derived from sugarcane production and serves as a viable alternative to traditional petrol. The E-20 blend consists of 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline, providing a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution for fuel consumption.
