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Now, India pushes diesel, LPG blending plans
India is moving to roll out blended diesel with iso-butyl alcohol and to develop DME-blended LPG for commercial use. The BIS is finalising standards with publication expected later in 2026, while the government plans revisions to existing LPG benchmarks.
Why It Matters
The steps aim to reduce import reliance and bolster energy security amid geopolitical tensions.
Timeline
4 Events
Existing blended LPG benchmark revised for commercial use
April 28, 2026
India already has a benchmark for blended LPG covering household, commercial and industrial uses, excluding automotive applications, though it has not been implemented. Officials said the government has now decided to prioritise blended LPG for commercial use, prompting revisions to the existing standard.
DME-blended LPG for commercial use: final standards planned
April 28, 2026
Separately, the government is preparing final standards for dimethyl ether (DME)-blended LPG for commercial use by May 15, with a revised benchmark expected after consultations. DME is a gas that can be produced from natural gas, coal and biomass; blends are being considered only for commercial applications, while household LPG cylinders will remain unblended.
BIS to publish IBA-diesel standard by mid-2026
April 28, 2026
BIS is examining inputs from refiners and the transport industry to finalise specifications for diesel blended with 10% iso-butyl alcohol. A status report reviewed by HT indicates publication of the standard is expected by June 15, 2026.
Draft standard for IBA-blended diesel prepared by BIS-led group
April 28, 2026
A draft standard for diesel blended with 10% iso-butyl alcohol (IBA) was prepared by a BIS-led working group led by Bharat Petroleum Corp executive Dr Bharat Newalkar, based on fuel-characterisation studies by leading oil marketing companies. Further sample analyses were carried out by oil companies, with BPCL coordinating the process. The draft standard is expected to be released for public comments before final notification.