India’s first 2G bamboo ethanol plant to boost green energy, rural economy, and support ethanol blending targets
Overview of the Bamboo-Based Ethanol Plant in Assam
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a ₹5,000 crore bamboo-based ethanol plant at Numaligarh Refinery in Assam’s Golaghat district. This is India’s first-of-its-kind second-generation (2G) bioethanol facility that produces fuel-grade ethanol from bamboo.
- Location: Numaligarh Refinery, Golaghat, Assam
- Investment: ₹5,000 crore
- Operator: Assam Bio Ethanol Private Ltd (ABEPL), a joint venture of Numaligarh Refinery Ltd, Fortum BV, and Chempolis Oy
- Annual Capacity: 300,000 tonnes of bamboo feedstock producing 48,900 tonnes of ethanol
Key Features & Benefits of the Project
- Advanced Technology: Uses 2G bioethanol technology from bamboo, a renewable resource.
- Zero Waste Operation: Produces byproducts such as furfural, acetic acid, food-grade CO₂, and bio-coal along with green energy.
- Power Generation: Includes a 25 MW captive power plant to meet energy needs onsite.
- Employment Generation: The project is expected to create livelihoods for over 50,000 people involved in bamboo cultivation and supply chains.
Strategic Importance for India’s Energy & Economy
- Supporting E20 Ethanol Blending Target: This plant will contribute to India’s national goal of 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025-26, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
- Boost to Rural Economy: Encourages bamboo cultivation, which benefits farmers and tribal communities across Northeast India.
- Sustainability: Focuses on clean, renewable energy, aligning with India’s climate action goals.
- International Collaboration: Technology and expertise come from Finnish and European partners, showcasing India’s growing global partnerships in green energy.
What This Means for Assam & the Northeast
- The plant will establish Assam as a leader in biofuel innovation and sustainable development.
- Expected to catalyze more investments in renewable energy and allied sectors in the region.
- Enhances energy security and economic growth for the Northeast states.
The inauguration of the bamboo-based ethanol plant marks a significant milestone in India’s renewable energy journey. With this project, PM Modi not only furthers the government’s green energy agenda but also strengthens rural livelihoods and regional development.
