A new compressed biogas plant is set to be built in Durg district, Chhattisgarh, with a Rs60 crore investment. This initiative, a collaboration between the Bhilai Municipal Corporation, the Chhattisgarh Biofuel Development Authority, and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), aims to convert urban solid waste into eco-friendly biofuel.
The plant is expected to process 150 metric tonnes of solid waste daily, significantly lowering greenhouse gas emissions while promoting organic farming. Additionally, it is anticipated to create 30,000 man-days of employment annually, aligning with the state’s ambitious goals toward achieving net-zero emissions. This initiative reflects India’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity and encouraging sustainable development through innovative waste management solutions.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced the continuation of the National Bioenergy Programme, set to run from FY 2021-22 to 2025-26. This comprehensive initiative aims to promote sustainable energy solutions and has been structured in two phases, with Phase-I receiving a significant budget of Rs858 crore. This allocation includes Rs100 crore specifically for the Biogas Programme.
The Biogas Programme consists of several key objectives including establishing biogas plants for clean cooking fuel, lighting, and thermal energy, which will contribute to GHG reduction, improve sanitation, empower women, and create rural employment. And, producing organic-enriched bio-manure from the digested slurry of biogas plants, helping farmers reduce their dependency on chemical fertilizers.