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The Federal Government is considering increasing the ethanol content of gasoline to 30% to reduce fuel prices, maintain vehicle performance and strengthen Brazil's clean energy policy.
A new proposal from the Federal Government promises to change the way gas stations are used throughout Brazil. The idea is simple: increase the percentage of ethanol mixed with gasoline from 27% to 30%. According to the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the measure could reduce the price of gasoline and strengthen the country's energy independence.
In addition to the impact on consumers’ pockets, the proposal is directly related to sustainability policies.
The use of ethanol, a domestically produced biofuel, helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels imported. With this, Brazil reinforces its position towards a cleaner energy matrix.
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The government's proposal
The Ministry of Mines and Energy is conducting technical studies to assess the potential of the so-called E-30. This is gasoline with 30% ethanol in its composition. Currently, the mixture is 27%.
The change, although it may seem small, could have a considerable impact on fuel prices, consequently impacting the price of gasoline at gas stations.
Ethanol, because it is cheaper than pure gasoline, can help reduce the final cost of the liter sold at the pumps.
The partial replacement of gasoline can also benefit the production sector, encouraging the ethanol chain, which involves sugarcane production, plants and transportation.
Technical assessment ensures safety
A study by the Mauá Institute of Technology assessed the technical impacts of the proposal. According to the research, the change to the E-30 does not compromise engine performance.
The increase in the percentage of ethanol can be done without harming the vehicles currently circulating on the country's streets and roads.
The Minister of Mines and Energy, Alexandre Silveira, stated that the measure is safe. Studies confirm that the adaptation of engines is already sufficient to handle this new proportion. The country already has experience in using ethanol in gasoline, facilitating a transition.
Impact on the price of gasoline
The main benefit perceived by consumers would be the reduction in the price of gasoline. With ethanol occupying a larger share of the mix, the price tends to fall. This strategy seeks to mitigate the economic effects caused by the high cost of fuel, especially on drivers' budgets.
Even small reductions can make a difference at the end of the month. Increased ethanol use also strengthens the domestic market, which can have positive effects on the economy as a whole.
Drop in the price of gasoline: how the implementation will be done
The government reported that increasing the percentage of ethanol does not require significant changes to the infrastructure of gas stations. Since ethanol is already part of the composition of gasoline, the adjustment would be made easily.
The proposal will still be analyzed by the National Energy Policy Council (CNPE), which will evaluate the technical data before authorizing the change. The expectation is that, if approved, the transition will occur gradually, without negative impacts for the consumer.
Support of the “Fuel of the Future” Law
The proposal is part of a broader plan by the federal government, aligned with the “Fuel of the Future” Law. This legislation was created to encourage the use of biofuels in the country. The focus is to modernize the Brazilian energy matrix, with planned investments of R$260 billion by 2037.
The law includes incentives for the use of ethanol, biodiesel, natural gas and other renewable sources. The goal is to reduce the emission of polluting gases and make Brazil less dependent on imports of petroleum derivatives. The increase in ethanol in gasoline fits into this strategy.
Challenges to be faced
Despite the benefits mentioned, the path is not free of obstacles. The proposal may encounter resistance from sectors that still lack fossil fuels. Complete adaptation of the logistics and production chain may also require effort and cooperation.
