OMCs Reassure on E20 Petrol Quality Post-Testing

The Cliff News | 8 August 2026

State-run oil marketing companies (OMCs) have issued a strong statement on August 8, asserting that recent nationwide testing of E20 petrol has revealed no evidence to support claims of widespread moisture or chloride contamination. The comprehensive testing, which spanned the entire supply chain, found fuel quality to be consistently within prescribed limits.

This intensified scrutiny follows a wave of media reports alleging the presence of excessive moisture and chloride in E20, the petrol blend containing 20 percent ethanol. The joint affirmation from Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) aims to address concerns and reinforce confidence in the fuel's integrity.

Extensive Testing Confirms Fuel Standards

The OMCs stated that the exercise was scientifically designed to thoroughly assess the fuel quality. Their findings, based on this extensive testing, directly contradict earlier assertions. The companies emphasized that the results validated the quality of E20 petrol across its journey from production to delivery.

In their joint statement, the oil giants declared, “Contrary to certain assertions being made, there is no evidence of any alarm on account of fuel contamination validated by extensive and scientifically designed tests.” This underscores their commitment to maintaining high standards and transparent communication with the public and stakeholders.

Supply Chain Integrity Validated

The testing covered every stage of the E20 petrol supply chain, a crucial step in addressing public and media concerns. This thorough approach sought to identify any potential issues from blending facilities to retail outlets. The reaffirmation that fuel quality remained “consistently well within prescribed limits” offers reassurance to consumers and the automotive sector.

The companies' proactive stance in conducting and publicizing the results of this extensive testing demonstrates their dedication to ensuring the reliability of India’s fuel supply. The focus remains on upholding the quality benchmarks set for biofuels and traditional fuels alike.