War in Iran accelerated Asia’s transition to biofuels

Asian countries have begun to shift more actively to biofuels amid the energy crisis caused by the war in Iran and disruptions to oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Associated Press.

In India, the effects of the crisis have already led to an increase in fuel and household gas prices by $11–$31. Against this backdrop, Indian authorities have decided to accelerate the use of ethanol-blended fuels. Currently, most gas stations in the country sell gasoline with 20% ethanol, but the government wants to increase the share of biofuels. The Indian Ministry of Transport has also proposed allowing vehicles to run on fuel with up to 85% ethanol or completely on ethanol.

Similar measures are being discussed in Southeast Asia. In Indonesia, authorities are legislatively increasing the share of palm oil-based biodiesel from 40% to 50%. Malaysia has approved a gradual transition to fuel with 15% biodiesel.

Tags: biofuel, Asia