Indigenous DME Gas May End India's Dependence on LPG Imports

India is currently the third-largest energy consumer in the world and the fourth-largest consumer of gas. A major concern is that the country depends heavily on imports to meet its energy needs, leading to a significant outflow of foreign currency.

In the case of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), India imports nearly 60 percent of its total requirement. Out of this, around 85 to 90 percent comes from Gulf countries through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Due to the ongoing crisis in West Asia and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, energy supplies have faced serious risks. Amid this growing energy crisis, scientists from Pune have introduced a promising solution in the form of Dimethyl Ether (DME), which is being presented as an indigenous and low-cost alternative to LPG.

According to project scientist Dr. T. Raja, DME has many similarities with LPG in terms of usage. It can easily be blended with propane and butane and used as a domestic cooking gas or industrial fuel.

In the initial phase, the plan is to use a mixture of 20% DME and 80% LPG. This means consumers will not need to replace their existing gas stoves or cylinders, making the transition simple and cost-effective.

Scientists also believe that DME will not remain limited to household kitchens. It can also serve as an alternative fuel for LPG-powered auto-rickshaws, expanding its use into the transportation sector.

Reports suggest that if India starts blending 20 percent DME in domestic LPG consumption, the country could reduce LPG imports by nearly 6.3 million tonnes every year.

This could help India save approximately 4.04 billion US dollars, which is around ₹34,200 crore in foreign exchange annually.

This development is considered highly significant at a time when global LPG prices and supplies are under pressure due to wars and geopolitical tensions in West Asia.