New Delhi: The West Asia conflict is prompting the government to consider a faster shift towards renewable energy, including the possibility of increasing ethanol blending in petrol by 20-25%, although in a calibrated manner. This would come with increased refining capacity within the country so that there is a buffer in the system and greater domestic flexibility, people familiar with the discussions said, adding that maintaining refineries at 100% capacity is not sustainable.While the Barmer refinery has started operations, expansion is underway at Numaligarh and the focus is also on integrated refineries on the west coast. Apart from a mega refinery in Maharashtra, a new facility is also planned in Gujarat.Officials said the increased use of renewable energy, biofuels and hydrogen in the energy mix is no longer just an environmental issue, but a strategic necessity in a situation like the current one, where military conflict in West Asia has disrupted global energy supplies, leading to a supply crisis and rising oil and gas prices.According to officials, the 20% ethanol blend has helped India save 4.5 crore barrels of crude oil annually and reduce foreign exchange outflow by about ₹1.5 lakh crore. Given concerns over fuel efficiency and impact on vehicles, the government is expected to adopt a gradual approach to address concerns over ethanol blending. The third pillar on energy is to expand strategic petroleum reserves.