CSIR-NCL flags DME as indigenous LPG alternative amid West Asia crisis, boosts energy security

• CSIR-NCL identifies Dimethyl Ether (DME) as a potential indigenous alternative to LPG, addressing supply concerns from the West Asia crisis.
• Scientists developed a patent-protected technology using an indigenous catalyst to convert methanol into DME, fillable directly into LPG cylinders.
• DME is a clean-burning, environmentally friendly fuel, offering comparable thermal efficiency and strengthening India's energy security.
• Bureau of Indian Standards permits up to 20% DME blending with LPG; 8% blending requires no infrastructure changes, potentially saving ₹9,500 crore annually.
• Pilot production scaled to 250 kg/day; industrial demonstration plant of 2.5 tonnes/day planned, with future commercial plants up to 500 tonnes/day.