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Ethanol chulha is emerging as a new clean cooking technology, which claims to be less expensive and less pollution than LPG. This bio-fuel based technology can help in cooking without smoke and with less risk.

Tech: Ethanol stove is now in discussion as an alternative to the traditional LPG cylinder used in the kitchen. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently mentioned this technology and described it as a cheaper and better option for the environment. It is being claimed that this ethanol based stove is capable of providing high flame at low cost.

What is ethanol stove?

Ethanol chulha is a modern cooking stove, which works on ethanol fuel. Ethanol is a bio-fuel, which is produced from crops like sugarcane, maize and sweet sorghum. This stove uses ethanol in liquid or gel form and is considered a clean cooking technology.

The biggest feature of this technology is that it produces very little smoke, soot and strong smell. Ethanol produces high flame when burnt, due to which food can be cooked quickly.

How does this stove work?

Ethanol stove has a small fuel tank, in which ethanol is filled. When the burner is lit, it produces heat by burning the fuel in a controlled manner.

According to reports, ethanol can produce temperatures around 700 to 800 degrees Celsius when burned. Its flame is being considered like LPG. In terms of design, it may resemble an old kerosene stove, but its burning technology is more modern and effective.

How much cheaper can it be than LPG cylinder?

The biggest discussion regarding ethanol stove is its cost. Reports have claimed that one liter of ethanol can provide continuous flame for about 15 hours. For this reason it is being said to be a more economical option than LPG.

However, the actual savings will depend on many factors, such as local price of ethanol, availability and capacity of the stove. At present this technology is in its initial stage and its use has not started on a large scale.

Experts say that if the supply of ethanol is strengthened and the price remains controlled, then it can become a cheaper option for the common people.

Why special in terms of environment and safety?

Ethanol is considered a better fuel for the environment because it is produced from plants and does not cause heavy pollution like fossil fuels. Its use reduces smoke and soot in the kitchen, which can improve indoor air quality.

It is also considered better from security point of view. Ethanol can also be used in gel form, which can reduce the risk of accidents like gas leaks. However, experts say that further testing of this technology is necessary before adopting it on a large scale.

Can it become an alternative to LPG in future?

Currently, ethanol stove is in the early development stage, but it is being seen as the clean cooking technology of the future. If the government and companies work on its supply chain, price and safety standards, then it can become a strong alternative to LPG cylinder in the future.

Experts believe that this can reduce people’s fuel expenses and can also help in controlling pollution.