Has India Really Added 2,361 MW Biomass Capacity in the Last Decade?
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Synopsis
Discover how India has made remarkable strides in biomass energy over the last decade, achieving unprecedented capacity growth, thanks to government backing. This article highlights the key milestones and future initiatives in the nation's pursuit of sustainable energy.
Key Takeaways
- India has increased biomass capacity by 2,361 MW.
- Established 2.88 lakh biogas plants in the last decade.
- Government initiatives are crucial for promoting green energy.
- Focus on reducing stubble burning through biomass utilization.
- Financial assistance available for biomass power generation projects.
New Delhi, Dec 17 (NationPress) India has successfully increased its biomass capacity by 2,361 MW, alongside achieving 228 MWe in waste-to-energy capacity and establishing 2.88 lakh biogas plants over the past decade. This progress has been significantly driven by various government incentives aimed at promoting green energy, as shared in Parliament on Wednesday.
In a detailed written response to a question in the Lok Sabha, Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy, emphasized that the ministry is actively supporting bioenergy projects across the nation through the National Bioenergy Programme (NBP), Phase-I, which was officially launched on November 2, 2022, with a financial allocation of Rs 998 crore for the duration of 2022-23 to 2025-26.
Throughout the last decade, the government has consistently backed bioenergy initiatives via various schemes, including the National Biogas and Manure Management Programme (NBMMP) during the 12th Five-Year Plan, as well as the New National Biogas & Organic Manure Programme (NNBOMP) from 2018-19 to 2020-21.
In addition, initiatives to encourage grid interactive biomass power and bagasse cogeneration in sugar mills were also introduced during the 12th Plan Period. The Programme on Energy from Urban, Industrial and Agricultural Wastes/Residues was launched during the same period, along with schemes supporting biomass-based cogeneration in sugar mills and other industries from 2018-19 to 2020-21.
The current program has expanded its focus beyond cogeneration to include the production of pellets and briquettes for power generation, offering financial incentives to boost production. This initiative aligns with the implementation of the National Mission on Co-firing of Biomass in Thermal Power Plants, which also aims to mitigate the issue of stubble burning, particularly in northern states.
Under the updated guidelines for 2021-22 to 2025-26, Central Financial Assistance is now available for projects aimed at establishing pellets and briquettes for power generation as well as for non-bagasse-based power generation projects.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the positive developments in renewable energy that reflect India's commitment to sustainable growth. The advancements in biomass capacity are not just numbers; they signify a strategic shift towards environmentally friendly energy solutions that will benefit both the economy and the environment.
NationPress
18/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total biomass capacity added by India in the last decade?
India has added a total biomass capacity of 2,361 MW in the last 10 years.
What government initiatives support bioenergy projects?
The government supports bioenergy initiatives through programs like the National Bioenergy Programme and the National Biogas and Manure Management Programme.
How many biogas plants have been established in India recently?
2.88 lakh biogas plants have been established in the last decade.
What are the financial allocations for the National Bioenergy Programme?
The National Bioenergy Programme has a budget of Rs 998 crore for the period from 2022-23 to 2025-26.
How does biomass energy help the environment?
Biomass energy initiatives help reduce stubble burning and promote the use of renewable resources, contributing to a cleaner environment.
