After cars, ethanol set to enter Indian kitchens as cooking fuel

Ethanol moves from fuel tanks to kitchen stoves

India is exploring a major shift in household energy use. After blending ethanol with petrol for cars, the government is now planning to introduce it as a mainstream cooking fuel. The move could see ethanol cylinders or piped supply reaching kitchens alongside traditional LPG.

The plan is still at the policy formulation stage. But sources indicate that pilot projects could begin in select districts within the next financial year. The aim is to reduce dependence on imported LPG and utilise domestically produced ethanol more widely.

72 lakh tonne rice stock earmarked for ethanol

To ensure adequate raw material for this expansion, the Centre has ring-fenced 72 lakh tonnes of rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) stocks. This grain, originally meant for the public distribution system, will be diverted to distilleries for ethanol production.

Officials say the move will not disrupt food security. The allocated rice represents surplus stock beyond buffer requirements. The ethanol produced from this grain will be used both for blending with petrol and for the new cooking fuel initiative.

Ethanol ATMs and E20 push gain pace

Alongside the kitchen fuel plan, the government is accelerating the rollout of ethanol ATMs. These dispensing units allow consumers to directly fill ethanol-blended fuel for vehicles. The programme is part of India's broader target to achieve 20% ethanol blending in petrol (E20) by 2025-26.

Several states have already begun setting up these ATMs at existing fuel stations. The petroleum ministry has issued guidelines for safety and pricing. Industry experts see this as a critical step in building consumer confidence for ethanol as a mainstream fuel.

Challenges ahead for widespread adoption

Introducing ethanol as a cooking fuel comes with hurdles. The calorific value of ethanol is lower than LPG, meaning larger volumes or modified stoves would be required. Safety concerns around storage and handling in domestic settings also need to be addressed.

The government is working with Indian Oil Corporation and other public sector oil companies to develop standardised burners and cylinders. Pricing will be another key factor. Ethanol must be cost-competitive with subsidised LPG to attract households.

Officials have not yet confirmed a timeline for the rollout. A draft policy is expected to be circulated for stakeholder comments in the coming months.

The success of this initiative will depend on production capacity, distribution logistics, and consumer acceptance. If implemented, it could mark a significant step in India's energy transition, reducing import bills and bolstering the rural economy through increased demand for sugarcane and grain-based ethanol.