The Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association (GEMA) has urged the government to introduce ethanol-based cookstoves as an alternative and complementary cooking solution to LPG in India.
The proposal comes at a time when India remains heavily dependent on imported LPG, with global supply risks rising due to geopolitical tensions. Ethanol cookstoves are being suggested as a way to strengthen energy security and reduce import dependence.
Ethanol, a domestically produced biofuel, burns cleanly with low smoke and reduced indoor air pollution, making it an environmentally friendly cooking option. These stoves also do not require gas cylinders and can operate using liquid fuel directly.
GEMA has recommended pilot projects and feasibility studies to evaluate safety, cost, and large-scale adoption potential across households and commercial kitchens like restaurants and street vendors.
Experts believe ethanol cookstoves could complement LPG rather than replace it entirely, helping diversify India’s cooking energy mix while supporting farmers and the domestic biofuel industry.If implemented, the move could boost clean energy adoption, rural income, and long-term sustainability, while providing a backup cooking solution during fuel supply disruptions.
