India, with its vast agricultural landscape and rising energy demands, is on the brink of a bioenergy revolution. The country generates an immense amount of agricultural residues, much of which remains underutilised. If harnessed efficiently, these resources could transform India’s energy landscape, ensuring energy security and environmental sustainability.
I said we were doing a world tour…
Despite possessing significant biomass resources such as crop residues, animal manure, and organic municipal waste, India’s bioenergy sector remains largely underdeveloped. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), unlocking these resources requires technological innovation, investment, and strong policy support.
One of the most promising developments in India’s bioenergy sector is the shift towards cellulosic ethanol production. The country has already established one ethanol plant, with three more under development. These facilities convert agricultural waste into ethanol, providing a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Thoughhhh… the IEA warns that India must diversify its feedstocks to avoid supply shortages like those experienced in late 2023.
Integrating bioenergy with carbon capture and utilisation or storage (BECCUS) could play a vital role in reducing emissions. This technology enables negative emissions, aligning with India’s and global climate goals. The IEA emphasises the importance of international collaboration to advance BECCUS and strengthen India’s bioenergy potential
India’s bioenergy revolution is full of promise. By embracing technological innovation, diversifying feedstocks, and fostering global partnerships, the country can position biomass energy as a key pillar of its sustainable energy transition. This transformation could propel India toward a greener, more energy-secure future.
Google. (2025). Gemini (Imagen 3) [AI image generator]. https://ai.google.dev/gemini-api/docs/imagen
International Energy Agency (IEA), 2025. Unlocking India’s bioenergy potential. [online] Available at: https://www.iea.org/commentaries/unlocking-indias-bioenergy-potential [Accessed 13 Feb. 2025].
International Energy Agency (IEA), 2024. India could triple its biofuel use and accelerate global deployment. [online] Available at: https://www.iea.org/commentaries/india-could-triple-its-biofuel-use-and-accelerate-global-deployment [Accessed 13 Feb. 2025].
International Energy Agency (IEA), 2021. Unlocking the potential of bioenergy with carbon capture and utilisation or storage (BECCUS). [online] Available at: https://www.iea.org/articles/unlocking-the-potential-of-bioenergy-with-carbon-capture-and-utilisation-or-storage-beccus [Accessed 13 Feb. 2025].
