India generates approximately 228.5 million to 230 million tonnes of surplus agricultural biomass residue annually, holding an estimated gross power-generation potential of 28.45 GW (roughly 10% of India's peak power demand). Converting crop residue (parali) into clean energy can reduce smog and air pollution, create rural employment, and support green energy targets.
India generates approximately 228.5 million to 230 million tonnes of surplus agricultural biomass residue annually, holding an estimated gross power-generation potential of 28.45 GW (roughly 10% of India's peak power demand). Converting crop residue (parali) into clean energy can reduce smog and air pollution, create rural employment, and support green energy targets. Key Pathways to Tap Biomass Potential:- Biomass Co-Firing in Thermal Plants:- The Union government mandates coal-based thermal power plants to co-fire biomass pellets and torrefied charcoal with coal. Mandated minimum shares are 7% for plants in and around the National Capital Region (NCR) and 5% for plants elsewhere. Compressed Biogas (CBG) and Bio-Ethanol:- Paddy straw and agricultural waste are processed via anaerobic digestion or thermochemical conversion into compressed biogas (Bio-CNG), ethanol, and sustainable aviation fuel (such as IOCL’s Panipat project). Densification (Pellets and Briquettes):- ...