Guatemala begins distribution of E10 ethanol-blended gasoline

Guatemala has begun the implementation of E10 gasoline, a blend consisting of 90% gasoline and 10% ethanol. Starting Saturday, approximately 2,177 service stations across the country will begin replacing traditional regular gasoline with this new mixture.

According to the Ministry of Energy and Mines, the E10 blend will be dispensed through existing pumps used for regular gasoline, meaning no changes to refueling habits or vehicle modifications are required. The blending process is automated at terminals before the fuel reaches stations to ensure precise proportions.

The country expects to require approximately 95 million gallons of ethanol annually to sustain the E10 mixture, which will be met through a combination of domestic production and imports. The General Directorate of Hydrocarbons will oversee the logistics and storage chain. Domestic production is supported by several entities, including Pantaleón, Magdalena, Palo Gordo, Madre Tierra (Catsa), and Destiladora Darsa.