Brazil Ministry says that tests have confirmed the increase of ethanol in gasoline to 30%.

The Brazilian Ministry of Mines and Energy announced in a Monday presentation that tests exploring the viability to increase the proportion of anhydrous alcohol mixed with gasoline up to 30% showed "consistent performances" and "real benefits for the environment."

In Brazil, the gasoline contains 27% anhydrous alcohol. The demand for ethanol would be increased in Brazil if the proportion was raised to 30%, also known as E30.

"With E30, we will be independent of gasoline imports for the first time since 2010," said Minister of Mines and Energy Alexandre Silveira during a presentation highlighting the test results.

Silveira said that following the positive test results, the Ministry will present the proposal for an increase in the proportion of ethanol in gasoline to National Energy Policy Council.

Minister said that the move to E30 would result in investments of 9 billion reais (1,59 billion dollars).

The Ministry of Mines and Energy stated that E30 could result in a savings of 0.13 Reais per liter of gas at the pump.

(source: Reuters)