Government to Introduce Ethanol-Based Cookstoves for Commercial LPG Users
Introduction of Ethanol Cookstoves
The government is preparing to provide relief to users of commercial LPG cylinders by launching Ethanol-based cookstoves. C.K. Jain, President of the Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association (GEMA), shared in an exclusive interview that ethanol producers are developing these cookstoves for commercial applications and have submitted their proposal to the government. He mentioned, "GEMA is focused on the Ethanol-Based Cookstove project and has proposed it to the government. We are addressing initial challenges such as dispensing and refilling. Once these issues are resolved, we will begin the rollout for commercial use." Jain emphasized that ethanol could replace LPG for commercial applications, which currently accounts for about 15% of India's crude oil dependency. Reducing this 15% import would represent a significant achievement for the country.
As India aims to protect itself from future energy crises and escalating crude oil prices, Jain noted that ethanol blending will play a crucial role in the nation’s long-term energy transition strategy.
The commercial LPG sector has been significantly impacted by the crude oil supply crisis, leading to continuous price hikes since the onset of the Iran War. Recently, the price of a commercial LPG cylinder in New Delhi rose by Rs 42, while in Kolkata, it increased by Rs 53.50. Consequently, a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder will now be priced at Rs 3113.50 in Delhi and Rs 3255.50 in Kolkata, effective from June 1, 2026. Additionally, the cost of 5 kg Free Trade LPG cylinders has gone up by Rs 11, bringing the price to Rs 821.50 in Delhi, with no changes to domestic cylinder prices.
Progress on Isobutanol-Diesel Blending
Jain further revealed that manufacturers are also exploring the blending of isobutanol with diesel. He stated, "India may soon require the blending of isobutanol with diesel as part of its strategy to decrease crude oil imports. We are actively working on this initiative. The government is establishing a pilot plant, and research is currently underway in this area." V. Umashankar, secretary at the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), confirmed that the proposal is being taken seriously and could potentially be implemented later this year.