The government is now considering the use of ethanol for commercial cooking. Ethanol could prove to be cheaper than commercial LPG. It consists of approximately 95% ethanol and a small amount of water. Consequently, it does not require an additional dehydration process, which helps keep its cost low.
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New Delhi: Fluctuations in the prices of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and disruptions in its supply in India have frequently proven to be a persistent headache for hotels, restaurants, and large institutions. However, efforts have now intensified to devise an indigenous and sustainable solution to this crisis. According to a report by Moneycontrol, the government is now seriously considering the use of ethanol for commercial cooking purposes.
If this plan comes to fruition, the dependence of commercial kitchens on LPG cylinders could be significantly reduced in the near future. There are plans to utilize approximately 1,000 crore liters of surplus ethanol capacity for cooking applications. A detailed white paper on this subject is expected to be presented before an inter-ministerial panel in the coming weeks.
Ethanol is cheaper than LPG.
Ethanol—specifically hydrous ethanol—can prove to be cheaper than commercial LPG. It consists of approximately 95% ethanol and a small amount of water. Consequently, it does not require undergoing an additional dehydration process, which helps keep its cost low. The price of commercial LPG is approximately ₹103 per kilogram, whereas hydrous ethanol costs around ₹70 per kilogram. However, the calorific value—or energy potential—of ethanol is lower than that of LPG. This implies that a larger quantity of ethanol is required.
What is Ethanol Made From?
In India, ethanol is primarily produced from sugarcane, maize, and broken rice. It is utilized as a biofuel. Currently, ethanol-blended petrol is sold across India. The ethanol used for cooking purposes differs from the ethanol used as fuel and is also more affordable.
What is the Government’s Plan?
A source revealed that the government initially plans to utilize ethanol for cooking purposes in commercial establishments such as hotels, airports, and restaurants. LPG imports have been disrupted due to the US-Iran conflict, resulting in a reduced availability of LPG in the domestic market. Oil marketing companies are prioritizing domestic requirements, leading to a curtailed supply of LPG to commercial establishments like hotels and restaurants.
A proposal regarding the use of ethanol for commercial cooking will be presented before an inter-ministerial panel. This panel comprises officials from the Ministries of Petroleum, Road Transport, Heavy Industries, and Food. It is this very panel that formulates policy decisions related to ethanol. According to sources, industry representatives have expressed their willingness to initiate trials and collaborate with the government to develop safety and technical standards. A detailed proposal for this initiative is currently being drafted.
