ANNOUNCEMENTS
India’s growing energy demand, coupled with its extensive agricultural activity, presents a significant opportunity for renewable energy generation through the utilization of crop residues. This study investigates the potential of wheat, paddy, and maize residues as primary feedstocks for the production of Compressed Bio- Gas (CBG), or Bio-CNG, with a specific focus on their availability in Sultanpur and Shravasti districts of Uttar Pradesh. These agri-residues, often subjected to open-field burning, contribute significantly to environmental degradation. However, their high lignocellulosic content makes them suitable candidates for anaerobic digestion and bioenergy production when properly pretreated.
The literature review evaluates the biochemical characteristics, regional availability, and seasonal generation patterns of these residues. Wheat and maize residues exhibit higher digestibility compared to paddy straw, which requires advanced pretreatment techniques to enhance methane yield. The study also highlights the critical role of decentralized biomass collection, storage infrastructure, and supply chain mechanisms in ensuring a reliable feedstock supply for Bio-CNG plants. The study underscores the multifaceted benefits of Bio- CNG production, including reduced air pollution, enhanced soil fertility through digestate use, and improved energy security.
This provides an understanding of the technical, environmental, and policy landscape governing agri-residue-based Bio-CNG projects in India. It lays the groundwork for further field-level assessment and project implementation in the selected districts, supporting India’s transition towards a circular bio-economy and low-carbon energy future.
Keywords: CBG, Agricultural residues, Feedstock availability, Anaerobic digestion, Biomass energy, Supply Chain Mechanism.
