IOC tests 10% ethanol blend in Karnataka

India’s Union Petroleum Ministry (UPM) has embarked on a special project to introduce a 10% ethanol-petrol blend in the state of Karnataka. Apart from Belgaum in Karnataka, Indian Oil Corp. (IOC) has been supplying the new petrol in Rourkela in Orissa state, as part of a pilot project. According to the UPM, the fuel has a higher octane rating (between 91 and 93) compared to conventional gasoline (87 and 88 octane). The ministry said the fuel can boost the efficiency of new-generation engines, which are Euro III compliant. IOC will start supplying the green petrol nationwide once sufficient stock is made available by refinery upgrades. (April 17, 2009)