As the central government considers raising ethanol blending in petrol to 27 per cent, Uttarakhand is already witnessing major environmental gains from the use of ethanol. Currently, the state consumes 59.3 crore litres of petrol annually, with 19 per cent of it blended with ethanol.

This blending prevents the release of over 1,04,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere every year, saving nearly 75,700 tonnes of oxygen. Emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and other pollutants have also decreased, officials said.

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Ethanol use is not only benefiting the environment but also creating avenues for industry growth, investment, and farmer income. Farmers cultivating sugarcane, maize, and other grains stand to gain directly.

Ethanol Production in Uttarakhand

  • India Glycols Limited, Kashipur – Capacity of about 590 kilolitres per day.
  • Haridwar – Proposed 50 kilolitres per day grain-based ethanol plant.
  • Cellulosic Ethanol Demo Plant – Will produce about 7,50,000 litres of ethanol annually from crop residue and biomass.

If the cellulosic ethanol project succeeds, experts say it could reduce stubble burning, significantly lowering air pollution.

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Sugarcane Development and Sugar Industry Minister Saurabh Bahuguna confirmed that, along with private mills, cooperative sugar mills are also preparing action plans to step up ethanol production.

“Ethanol is emerging not just as a clean energy option for Uttarakhand but also as a strong foundation for the state’s energy security and farmers’ economic self-reliance,” Bahuguna said.