(a) the details of the efforts made by the Government to promote bio-diesel in the country;
(b) whether any success has been achieved in this regards; and
(c) if so, the details thereof ?
(a) the details of the efforts made by the Government to promote bio-diesel in the country;
(b) whether any success has been achieved in this regards; and
(c) if so, the details thereof ?
THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR POWER, COAL & NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)
(a): In order to develop, produce and use biofuels, including bio-diesel, a National Policy on Biofuels has been formulated and was announced in December, 2009. The policy aims at bringing about accelerated development and promotion of the cultivation, production and use of biofuels to increasingly substitute petrol and diesel usage for transport and for stationary applications. The research and development on different aspects of production of bio-diesel is being supported by the Ministries of New and Renewable Energy, Science and Technology, and Agriculture. To encourage production of bio-diesel in the country, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas announced a Biodiesel purchase policy in January, 2006. Under this scheme, OMCs would purchase biodiesel at a pre-determined price for blending with high speed diesel to the extent of 5%, at 20 identified purchase centres across the country.
(b)&(c): No, Madam. The Oil Marketing Companies have not procured any bio-diesel so far for blending with diesel.