Why Nitin Gadkari Believes Ethanol Fuel is the Future of Clean Energy?

Nitin Gadkari, the Hon’ble Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, called hydrogen the “fuel of the future” along with Ethanol fuel. He also asserted that in the coming few years, Vehicles in India will start running on green fuels. Moreover, addressing the election rally of Union Minister Giriraj Singh in Begusarai, Bihar stated that- “India annually imports fossil fuel… soon, our farmers will generate green fuels.”

He then moved on to talk about ethanol. He opened a new opportunity for the farmers, stating that they could also produce ethanol instead of just growing crops. Nitin Gadkari, expects vehicles like two-wheelers and cars will start using ethanol in just a few years.

He mentioned: “Increased demand for ethanol will change the agro-economy of the country… this will make farmers ‘urjadata’ (providers of energy)… they will no longer remain ‘annadata’ (providers of food)”

Ethanol is considered to be a blessing for farmers and its demand is expected to transform the agro-economical landscape of the country.

Before understanding the potential of Ethanol, let’s first understand what Ethanol Fuel is.

What is Ethanol Fuel?

Ethanol fuel is a renewable energy source often referred to as “green energy.” This biofuel is primarily derived from biomass, such as sugarcane, corn, and other plant materials. Ethanol has gained popularity due to its ability to reduce environmental pollution, improve engine life, and improve fuel efficiency. As a gasoline component, ethanol significantly improves combustion, allowing fuel to burn more completely and reducing harmful emissions.

How to Make Ethanol?

Farmers can make Ethanol fuel by fermentating the sugars that is present in the biomass. The most common sources include grains like corn, sorghum, and barley, as well as sugarcane and sugar beets. The production process involves converting these sugars into alcohol. Refining of this alcohol leads to the formation of ethanol. Now, denaturing of this ethanol by adding certain chemicals is done to make it suitable for use.

In the United States, nearly all ethanol used as fuel is produced from corn starch. This form of ethanol is classified as a conventional biofuel under the U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS). Other potential sources for ethanol production include agricultural residues, fast-growing trees, and grasses like switchgrass. These sources require fewer inputs, such as fuel, fertilizers, and water, making them more sustainable. However, despite the potential, the production of ethanol from these alternative sources, known as cellulosic ethanol, is not yet economically viable on a large scale.

Benefits

The use of ethanol as a fuel has several advantages. Firstly, it is an environmentally friendly source of energy that helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Ethanol’s ability to blend with gasoline allows for smoother engine operation, reducing the risk of engine knock and improving overall vehicle performance. Additionally, the use of ethanol reduces dependence on imported petroleum, contributing to energy security.

Ethanol Fuel Stocks You Can Invest In

As the need for renewable energy sources is growing, investing in ethanol fuel stocks has become an attractive option.  Some of the key players in the ethanol market include:

Conclusion

The use of Ethanol fuel represents a step towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. As a renewable energy source, it offers various environmental and economic benefits. Investing in ethanol fuel stocks could provide a profitable opportunity as the world moves towards greener alternatives.

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