Wood alcohol: A planet-friendly energy source?

Methanol, often referred to as wood alcohol or methyl alcohol, is the simplest form of alcohol. A clear and flammable substance, methanol is popularly utilized as a solvent, antifreeze, and industrial fuel. Racing cars have especially recognized it for its use as an alcohol-based fuel. Furthermore, methanol stands as a primary ingredient in the production of chemicals, plastics, and biodiesel.

Environmental Merits of Methanol:

Renewably produced methanol, often termed as "Green Methanol," presents a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels, especially in sectors like marine transportation where reducing carbon footprints is vital. Notably, a type of green methanol is generated from green hydrogen.

Potential Benefits of Using Methanol:

  • Economical Production: Methanol emerges as a cost-effective choice compared to other alternative fuels.
  • Safety Advantages: Compared to gasoline, methanol has reduced flammability risks.
  • Environmental Advantages: Methanol, when derived from sustainable methods like green hydrogen and carbon capture techniques, has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Versatility: Apart from its use in dedicated engines, methanol finds relevance in diverse blends, shipping, aviation, and even industrial power generation.

NITI Aayog''s Vision for a Methanol Economy:

  • India''s strategic initiative, the ''Methanol Economy'' program under NITI Aayog, aims to harness methanol''s potential for energy, environment, and economic advancements.
  • The program seeks to minimize India''s reliance on imported oil, with a targeted 15% reduction in gasoline or crude oil imports by blending 15% methanol.
  • Additionally, it underscores methanol''s role in decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, optimizing domestic resources, and fostering employment.

Methanol in the Indian Context:

India has taken several steps to bolster its methanol economy:

  1. The Methanol Economy Research Programme (MERP) launched in 2015, emphasizes novel methanol production techniques.
  2. The Methanol Cooking Fuel Programme by Assam Petrochemicals in 2018 introduces methanol as an eco-friendly cooking alternative, targeting a reach of 1 lakh households.

Challenges Faced by India:

While methanol offers promise, India confronts several obstacles:

  • Limited domestic reserves of natural gas.
  • Abundant but high ash coal reserves.
  • Infrastructure deficits for methanol production and consumption.
  • Limited public awareness and acceptance.

Steering India Towards a Methanol-Driven Future:

To truly harness the potential of methanol, India must:

  • Foster R&D in methanol production.
  • Promote methanol in marine sectors.
  • Innovate with methanol-based fuel cells.
  • Partner with automobile sectors for methanol-adapted engines.
  • Augment methanol distribution networks.
  • Intensify public awareness campaigns and offer incentives for adoption.


POSTED ON 14-10-2023 BY ADMIN
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