Methanol Rethink and Hydrogen Transition: Insights from Bioenergy Expert YB Ramakrishna
A Leader in Biofuels
India has carved out a significant position as a global frontrunner in biofuels over the last decade. According to YB Ramakrishna, a prominent bioenergy expert and a key architect behind the National Bio-Energy Policy 2018, the next critical phase will hinge on advancements in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), biodiesel blending, and compressed biogas. In a recent conversation, he highlighted the successes and challenges that lie ahead in India’s energy transition.
The Success of Ethanol Blending
India’s ethanol blending program stands as a model of effective climate policy. Ramakrishna noted that in a short span, India escalated its ethanol blending from a mere 1.4% to an impressive 20%. With a current production capacity exceeding 18 billion liters, India has the potential to be a leader in ethanol, even while many countries struggle to achieve modest blending levels.
Despite this achievement, Ramakrishna pointed out a new challenge: finding viable ways to deploy this surplus ethanol beyond merely blending it with petrol. “One of the obvious options is sustainable aviation fuel (SAF),” he mentioned, although he acknowledged that the technology to convert ethanol to jet fuel is not yet fully mature and requires further research.
Untapped Potential in Biodiesel
Biodiesel blending, particularly with diesel, presents another untapped opportunity in India’s energy landscape. Ramakrishna is optimistic about the feasibility of integrating ethanol into diesel. “A lot of R&D has already been conducted,” he stated, encouraging policymakers to expedite the adoption of this approach.
Rethinking Methanol Strategies
When it comes to methanol, Ramakrishna advocates for a strategic shift. He argues that blending methanol with petrol or diesel is not a viable path forward. Instead, he suggests positioning methanol as a standalone fuel, particularly for inland navigation and marine transport. He also mentioned that dimethyl ether (DME), derived from methanol, could serve as a viable diesel replacement in specific applications.
The Long Game with Hydrogen
Ramakrishna has a cautionary perspective on hydrogen as a transition fuel. He emphasizes the need for realistic timelines, explaining that significant scaling of hydrogen applications is likely a long-term endeavor requiring another 10 to 15 years of focused effort. His call for patience underscores the complexities involved in developing a mature hydrogen economy.
The Role of Compressed Biogas
Compressed biogas (CBG) emerges as another focal area, with India setting an ambitious target to produce 15 million metric tonnes through approximately 5,000 commercial plants. However, progress has been slower than anticipated, with only around 185 plants operational and another 300 under construction. Ramakrishna warns that without addressing existing policy gaps, attracting large-scale investments will be challenging.
Critique of Electric Vehicles
On the topic of electric vehicles (EVs), Ramakrishna urges a nuanced view. He points out that the assumption that EVs automatically result in lower emissions can be misleading. If the electricity powering these vehicles comes from fossil fuels, their carbon footprints may still be significant. In contrast, ethanol has the advantage of being produced domestically from agricultural waste and residues, supporting rural economies while contributing to emissions reductions.
The Impact of Policy Interventions
Reflecting on the success of the 2018 Bio-Energy Policy, Ramakrishna describes it as a transformative intervention. At that time, ethanol blending was stagnating at 1.4%, and biodiesel adoption was negligible. Identifying the roadblocks and fostering an implementable policy has resulted in positive outcomes. With over 200 operational ethanol producers and stable supply contracts for oil marketing companies, the program has significantly benefited farmers, transferring an estimated ₹50,000–60,000 crore directly to them. Furthermore, it has saved the country ₹90,000–1 lakh crore in foreign exchange by reducing fuel imports.
These accomplishments are not merely statistical victories; they represent real change in the economic landscape, empowering farmers and revitalizing the industry as a whole.
Future Prospects
As India rejoices in having met the 20% blending goal five years ahead of schedule, the focus now shifts to using this success as a springboard for the next generation of biofuels. Ramakrishna’s insights serve as a vital reminder that while challenges remain, opportunities abound in rethinking strategies and scaling innovative solutions in the realm of bioenergy.