SAO PAULO, March 17 — Tests in Brazil exploring the feasibility of increasing the amount of anhydrous ethanol mixed with gasoline to 30% (E30) have shown positive results, with “consistent performance” and “real environmental benefits,” according to Brazilian Minister of Mines and Energy Alexandre Silveira.
Silveira stated that the shift to E30 would help Brazil become “independent from gasoline imports, something that has not happened since 2010.” Currently, gasoline in Brazil contains 27% anhydrous ethanol. Increasing this proportion to 30% would boost the demand for ethanol in the country.
Anhydrous ethanol, which has a water content of less than 0.1%, is mixed with gasoline, while hydrous ethanol, which contains more water, is used as a standalone fuel.
Following the success of the test results, the ministry plans to present the proposal for the E30 ethanol blend to the National Energy Policy Council, Silveira said.
However, the minister did not provide a specific date for when the proposal would be brought before the council, citing concerns over the impact of the change on prices for commodities such as sugar, corn, and soy. The transition to E30 would require an estimated investment of 9 billion reais ($1.59 billion), according to Silveira.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy also noted that E30 could reduce gasoline prices by up to 0.13 reais per liter at the pump.
Related Topics:
- How Long Will Gas Last in a Plastic Gas Can?
- Why Are Wholesale Gas Prices Increasing
- Diesel Fuel vs Gasoline: A Comprehensive Analysis of Fuel Costs