BIS notifies E22–E30 fuel norms (IS 19850:2026) — up to 30% ethanol blending

What: Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) issued specifications for E22, E25, E27 and E30 fuel blends (petrol with 22%, 25%, 27% and 30% ethanol) under IS 19850:2026.

Rollout: Technical standards only; no immediate nationwide E30 rollout mandated.

Significance:

• Energy security: Higher ethanol blending can reduce crude import dependence and oil import bill vulnerability.

• Agri‑linkages: Boosts demand for ethanol feedstock (sugarcane, maize, other feedstocks), encouraging agri value‑chain adjustments.

• Environment: Potential reduction in carbon intensity of transport fuels (subject to lifecycle analysis).

UPSC relevance: Energy policy, biofuels, BIS standards & regulatory processes.

Practice Q: Assess benefits and challenges of increasing ethanol blending in India’s petrol supply.