On February 6th, 2023, a significant stride in India’s journey towards sustainable energy was made when Prime Minister inaugurated the India Energy Week (IEW) 2023 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Marking a notable milestone in the endeavor towards green energy, the PM also launched E20 fuel at 84 Retail Outlets spread across 11 States/UTs and initiated the Green Mobility Rally led by Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL).
E-20 Ethanol Fuel: A Leap towards Atma Nirbharta
Underpinning the Indian Government’s commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in the energy sector, the Ethanol Blending programme has been prioritized. This initiative involves the production of E20, a fuel blend consisting of 20% ethanol and petrol. The ambitious plan aims at achieving a total 20% blending of ethanol by the year 2025. To aid this progress, HPCL and other oil marketing companies have initiated setting up of 2G-3G ethanol plants.
Triumphs of the Ethanol Blending Program
The dedicated endeavors of the Government towards augmenting ethanol production have borne fruitful results. Since 2013-14, there has been a six-fold increase in ethanol production capacity. These accomplishments not only bolster India’s energy security but also provide environmental benefits such as reduction of 318 Lakh Metric Tonnes of CO2 emissions. This initiative has also contributed significantly to the economy by saving approximately Rs 54,000 crore in foreign exchange.
Green Mobility Rally: Steering towards Sustainable Transportation
The Green Mobility Rally was designed to heighten public awareness about green fuels and saw participation from 57 vehicles powered by sustainable sources like E20, E85, Flex Fuel, Hydrogen, Electric, etc. The term ‘Green mobility’ refers to the adoption of sustainable transportation methods that curtail carbon emissions and conserve natural resources. With the right blend of policy support, industry effort, market evolution, investor interest, and public acceptance, India can emerge as a low-cost, carbon-neutral manufacturing hub in green mobility.
Other Green Initiatives
The PM also launched uniforms crafted from recycled PET bottles under Indian Oil’s ‘Unbottled’ initiative. Additionally, the twin-cooktop model of Indian Oil’s Indoor Solar Cooking System was introduced, followed by its commercial roll-out.
UPSC Civil Services Examination: A Look at Previous Year Questions
In the 2019 edition of UPSC Civil Services Examination, the question focused on the use of hydrogen enriched CNG (H-CNG) as fuel for public transport buses. Meanwhile, the 2010 question centered around energy crops suitable for ethanol production. The 2020 question revolved around India’s National Policy on Biofuels and potential raw materials for biofuel production. These questions underscore the increasing relevance of sustainable energy practices in civil service examinations.
Conclusion
The inauguration of IEW 2023, launching of E20 ethanol fuel, and flagging off of the Green Mobility Rally are notable strides in India’s journey towards energy self-sufficiency and environmental sustainability. As we move towards a future shaped by sustainable energy practices, initiatives like these give hope for a greener, cleaner tomorrow.
