The All India Distillers’ Association (AIDA) organised a roundtable with industry experts, technology providers and policy stakeholders, to discuss ‘What lies beyond E20? ‘
The Association said that with ethanol blending with petrol having stabilised and production capacities scaling rapidly across the country, the industry is staring at a new reality of surplus ethanol. AIDA used the forum to flag ethanol–diesel blending as a practical, forward-looking solution that can absorb excess supply while unlocking the much larger diesel market.
Diesel accounts for nearly 40% of India’s total fuel consumption, more than double that of petrol. According to AIDA, even modest blending in diesel can create a significant new demand channel for domestically produced biofuels, easing pressure on distilleries and improving overall energy security.
AIDA President Vijendra Singh said, “The industry has already invested heavily in capacity creation, aligned with national blending targets. “What is needed now is policy clarity on the next phase, higher ethanol blending, and diversified applications, so that these investments can be optimally utilised”.
The roundtable examined emerging technologies and global learnings around ethanol–diesel blends and advanced biofuels such as isobutanol, which offer better compatibility with diesel engines and fuel infrastructure.
It was noted that there is no need to start from scratch, international pilots and domestic trials have already demonstrated that low-level blends can deliver immediate emission benefits without major engine modifications.
AIDA reiterated that increasing ethanol blending beyond the current 20% in petrol, alongside exploring diesel blending, can play a dual role: managing surplus ethanol while supporting India’s climate and import-reduction goals.
The association also underlined the importance of regulatory pilots, OEM engagement and phased implementation to ensure a smooth transition. E20 already supports the rural economy and farmers, and a move towards E30 will make a significant contribution to further strengthening farm incomes and rural livelihoods.
The conference concluded with a consensus that ethanol – diesel blending deserves serious policy consideration as India charts the next chapter of its bioenergy story.
