Approval for Blending Up to 30 Percent Ethanol in Petrol

25-May-2026 05:51 PM

New Delhi. Through a Gazette notification, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has issued specifications for the E22, E27, and E30 standards regarding the blending of ethanol in petrol. This implies that, in the near future, the level of ethanol blending could reach up to 30 percent.

The ethanol manufacturing industry had been advocating for an increase in the ethanol blending level in petrol for some time. This BIS standard arrives at a juncture when the government is preparing to further advance the blending levels.

Previously, a blending target of 20 percent had been set—a goal that has already been achieved. An interesting fact is that while this target was originally slated for achievement by 2050, it was attained as early as the 2025-26 fiscal year.

Under the new specifications, the initial target for ethanol blending in petrol will be 22 percent; once achieved, this level will be raised to 25 percent.

Upon the realization of that target as well, the level will reach 27 percent, and ultimately, it will be increased to 30 percent. Thus, while the path for blending up to 30 percent has theoretically been cleared, it will not be mandatory.

The ethanol blending targets will continue to advance incrementally, contingent upon the production and utilization of sugarcane and food grains (primarily maize and rice). This initiative will aid in reducing the nation's dependence on the import of crude mineral oil.