Oil marketers say that mixing ethanol with Premium Motor Spirit can crash the price of petrol across the country to N49 per litre, as the country is currently experiencing scarcity in some parts.
Saturday PUNCH made the findings on the sidelines of the BusinessDay/Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria Policy Intervention Series on Alternative Fuel in Lagos. According to the marketers, ethanol blending in petrol is an avenue for significant savings for both the Federal Government and consumers.
Clement Isong, the Executive Secretary of MOMAN, told The PUNCH at the workshop, "We all know that everyone is currently complaining about the high price of petrol. However, blending ethanol with petrol is one of the ways to bring down prices by up to N49 per litre. This practice can also support local farming and agro-processing industries, particularly using abundant resources like cassava."
Ethanol is a volatile, inflammable, clear liquid with a distinctive odor and the chemical formula C2H5OH. It is the main type of alcohol found in drinks, but ethanol in its pure form is not fit for human consumption. Most fuel contains ethanol, usually around 10 percent. This helps supply oxygen to the fuel and reduce emissions. Ethanol also increases the octane number in fuel, which helps keep cars healthy."
The inclusion of ethanol in petrol has been touted as a solution to the high fuel prices currently plaguing Nigeria. Oil marketers claim that by mixing ethanol with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), the price of petrol across the country could potentially drop to N49 per litre.
This revelation came to light during the BusinessDay/Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria Policy Intervention Series on Alternative Fuel in Lagos. Such a blending technique, according to the marketers, would result in significant savings for both the Federal Government and consumers. Clement Isong, the Executive Secretary of MOMAN, emphasized the potential benefits of this practice during the workshop.
Isong stated, "We all know that everyone is currently complaining about the high price of petrol. However, blending ethanol with petrol is one of the ways to bring down prices by up to N49 per litre. This practice can also support local farming and agro-processing industries, particularly using abundant resources like cassava."
Ethanol, a clear liquid with a distinctive odor, is a volatile and inflammable substance with the chemical formula C2H5OH. While it is the primary type of alcohol found in beverages, pure ethanol is not suitable for human consumption. However, most fuel contains ethanol, usually at a concentration of around 10 percent. This helps provide oxygen to the fuel and reduces emissions. Additionally, ethanol increases the octane number in fuel, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of cars.
By utilizing ethanol as a fuel additive, Nigeria has a unique opportunity to address both the rising fuel prices and support its agricultural sector. With abundant resources like cassava, the country can tap into its local farming and agro-processing industries to produce ethanol, reducing dependence on imported fuels. This could create a positive cycle of economic growth, job creation, and energy security.
However, the implementation of ethanol blending in petrol will require careful consideration and planning. Issues such as production capacity, distribution infrastructure, and the potential impact on engines must be thoroughly evaluated. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and education on the benefits of ethanol-blended fuel may be necessary to ensure a smooth transition.
Ultimately, with the potential to reduce fuel prices and support local industries, blending ethanol with petrol offers a promising alternative for Nigeria's energy landscape. By embracing this practice, the country can demonstrate its commitment to sustainable and affordable energy solutions, benefitting both the economy and the environment.