The National Bioenergy Programme supports various bioenergy sub-schemes, including waste-to-energy, biomass-based cogeneration, and biogas production, with government funding and policy support

Achieving net zero by 2070 seems very much within grasp for India, riding on surging bioenergy initiatives as part of its broader energy transition strategy. Bioenergy, derived mainly from biomass, biofuels, and biogas, could very well cut down dependence on fossil fuels, cut emissions, and promote sustainable economic growth. Key elements for scaling bioenergy in India include leveraging abundant agricultural residues, promoting sustainable feedstock use, advancing bioenergy technologies, and implementing supportive policies and financial incentives.

Leveraging Agri Resources, Tech & Govt Initiatives

Key trends in the bioenergy sector include rising demand for biomethane and renewable natural gas (RNG), co-firing biomass pellets in existing power plants, and expansion of waste-to-energy projects.

India is leveraging its abundant agricultural residues and biomass resources as feedstock, supported by national programmes like the National Bioenergy Programme and waste-to-energy initiatives. Emerging technologies such as torrefaction, microbial fermentation, and digital monitoring systems are improving energy yield and operational efficiency. The sector also sees growing private sector participation, international partnerships, and investments in biofuels, including cellulosic ethanol and green hydrogen projects. These developments align with India’s renewable energy targets and net-zero commitments, with bioenergy playing a pivotal role in rural development, waste management, and energy security. India already derives about 25 per cent of its primary energy from biomass, with a large rural population dependent on it. The country has a surplus of biomass and agricultural waste, which can be converted into energy through modern technologies. The potential for biomassbased power is projected to exceed 35 GW by 2030, which can significantly augment India’s renewable energy capacity.

The National Bioenergy Programme supports various bioenergy sub-schemes, including waste-to-energy, biomass-based co-generation, and biogas production, with government funding and policy support.

Biomass power generation is the dominant sector, involving conversion of biomass such as agricultural residues, forestry waste, and organic garbage into electricity and heat. India’s biomass power capacity was nearly 10.75 GW in 2023, with expectations to grow significantly due to government policies promoting biomass pellets and co-firing with coal in power plants. The biogas market segment is growing rapidly, driven by the use of organic waste and agricultural residues to produce biogas and compressed biogas (CBG). Government initiatives such as SATAT encourage private sector involvement in establishing CBG plants, boosting biogas usage especially in rural and circular economy models. Biofuels (Ethanol and Biodiesel): Ethanol blending targets (20 per cent by 2025-26) and biodiesel blending targets (5 per cent by 2030) are key drivers. Biofuels are created from biomass feedstocks providing sustainable fuel alternatives for transportation and industrial use.

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