Demand for Ethanol Considering Spatially Differentiated Fuel Retailers

Simone Cuiabano

No 2024/231, IMF Working Papers from International Monetary Fund

Abstract: The document presents an innovative analysis of ethanol demand, emphasizing the significant role of spatially differentiated fuel retailers in shaping consumer preferences and fuel-switching behavior. Utilizing a nested logit model and data from Brazilian fuel retailers, the study reveals that ethanol demand is highly responsive to price changes, with relative price elasticity exceeding that of gasoline. Key findings indicate that retailer characteristics, such as branding and location, influence consumer preferences, highlighting the importance of considering spatial differentiation in demand estimation models. The study's results have profound implications for policy-making, suggesting that encouraging the use of ethanol as an alternative energy source can serve as an effective climate change mitigation strategy. The recommendations stress the need for policies that account for consumer price sensitivities and the competitive landscape of fuel retailers. This could enhance the adoption of cleaner fuels and reduce dependency on imported oil, aligning with broader environmental and economic objectives.

Keywords: ethanol; demand estimation; nested logit; fuel retailer; ethanol demand; retailer characteristic; influence consumer preference; Fuel prices; Gasoline; Logit models; Price elasticity; Agricultural prices; West Africa; Europe (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 18
Date: 2024-11-01
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-dcm, nep-ene and nep-env
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