Bongaigaon Refinery begins production of ethanol-blended petrol (E-20)

The Bongaigaon Refinery (BGR) in Assam has announced to have successfully produced and certified E-20 petrol (20% ethanol blended petrol). The Bongaigaon Refinery is located in Dhaligaon of the Chirang district in the North-Eastern state. This initiative by the refinery marks a significant step in advancing the Government of India’s National Biofuels Policy, which targets the nationwide supply of 20% ethanol-blended petrol by April 2025.

Bongaigaon Refinery is a complete oil refinery and petrochemical complex of IOCL. The launch of E-20 was officially flagged off by NK Barua, ED & Refinery Head, BGR, in the presence of JJ Das, CGM (Projects), Mihir Singhal, CGM (Technical Services & HSE), and other senior officials from the Refinery and Marketing teams.

The introduction of E-20 plays a crucial role in reducing India’s dependence on crude oil imports by substituting part of the petrol with domestically produced ethanol. By achieving 20% blending, the country can lower its import requirements, enhancing long-term energy security.

Additionally, the production of E-20 petrol from the BGR refinery is also expected to drive economic growth in rural areas of the region. Ethanol production primarily utilizes agricultural products such as sugarcane, maize, and other bio-crops. Increased ethanol demand translates into greater opportunities for farmers, boosting agricultural productivity and providing new revenue streams, thereby strengthening the economy of the rural segment.

The use of ethanol-blended petrol also contributes to reducing air pollution. Ethanol burns cleaner than conventional petrol, resulting in lower emissions of carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds. This leads to improved air quality, benefiting public health and addressing environmental concerns.

BGR claims that it has consistently been at the forefront of ethanol-blended petrol production and supply in the region, achieving key milestones in alignment with the Government of India’s National Biofuels Policy.