E-Methanol

E-Methanol Latest News

Recently, the government laid the foundation stone for its first port-based e-methanol production facility at Kandla, involving an investment of ₹2,300 crore.

About E-Methanol

• It is a low-carbon fuel produced with renewable energy and recycled CO₂.
• It is part of the family of e-Fuels (electricity-based fuels), meaning its production is made with electricity generated from renewable sources such as wind or solar.
• E-methanol production typically involves three key steps:
• Green hydrogen generation: Renewable energy-powered water electrolysis creates the hydrogen feedstock. (Here water (H₂O) molecules are split into oxygen and hydrogen.)
• CO2 capture: Carbon dioxide is captured from industrial flue gases (e.g. steel mills or cement plants) or directly from the air, reducing overall emissions at the source.
• Methanol synthesis: The hydrogen and CO2 are combined in a catalytic reactor under pressure, yielding methanol with minimal byproducts.
• Applications: It can be used in shipping, heavy industry, and chemical manufacturing.

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Benefits of E-methanol

• Lower Carbon Emissions:  It can significantly reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions when produced using renewable electricity and captured carbon dioxide.
• Reduced Sulfur Emissions: Compared to many conventional fuels, e-methanol produces little to no sulfur emissions during combustion.
• Lower Particulate Matter: Cleaner combustion characteristics can reduce particulate emissions and improve environmental performance.
• Renewable Production Cycle: The use of green hydrogen and renewable energy creates a more sustainable production pathway.

Source: PIB