Cooking with Ethanol Soon? Government Exploring LPG Alternative with Possible Subsidy

New Delhi: After promoting E20 ethanol-blended petrol, the Government of India is now exploring the use of ethanol as a clean cooking fuel for households. If implemented, the initiative could provide an alternative to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and reduce dependence on conventional cooking fuel.

According to available information, the government is considering the phased introduction of ethanol-based cooking stoves and fuel for domestic use. Proposals are also being discussed to provide subsidies on ethanol cooking stoves, making the transition more affordable for consumers.

Ethanol is a renewable biofuel produced primarily from sugarcane, maize, and other agricultural feedstocks. Experts believe that wider adoption of ethanol for cooking could help reduce fossil fuel consumption, lower carbon emissions, and create additional income opportunities for farmers by increasing demand for agricultural produce.

However, the proposal is currently under consideration, and no final government notification has been issued regarding nationwide implementation, subsidy amounts, distribution mechanisms, or the rollout timeline.

If approved, the initiative could mark a significant shift in India’s clean energy strategy by introducing ethanol as an alternative household cooking fuel alongside LPG.