GPS Renewables to Manufacture High-Efficiency Biogas Agitators in India Under Exclusive BGTS Partnership

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GPS Renewables, a full-stack biofuels firm offering technology and project solutions for climate-positive biofuel projects, and its subsidiary Proweps, have entered into an exclusive partnership with Germany-based Biogastechnik Süd GmbH (BGTS) to introduce Advanced Paddle Agitators (mixers) under their brand Varibull to India. This partnership aims to improve operational efficiency of biogas plants and reduce costs for Indian CBG (Compressed Biogas) Developers.

Currently, most CBG developers use conventional agitators – mechanical devices that mix organic waste and water within anaerobic digester. These consume more power and are inefficient in handling high fibrous substrates like paddy straw or Napier grass often leading to operational challenges such as poor mixing, crust formation and deposits inside biogas digesters. These inefficiencies are addressed by the Varibull Paddle Agitator, developed by Biogastechnik Süd in Germany. It offers high mixing efficiency, better handling of difficult substrates and significantly lower power consumption.

The agitator will be manufactured at GPS Renewables’ facility in Bengaluru and it will be offered competitively than currently available conventional biogas equipment. The company also plans to explore exports from India to other markets as part of its larger goal of making advanced biogas technologies easily accessible.

Rajesh Ayyappasur, Director - Business Development & Partnerships at GPS Renewables, said, “At GPS Renewables, our focus has always been on introducing innovative technologies that can categorically address challenges in biogas production in India. We do this either through our in-house solutions or through collaborations with global experts. This partnership with Biogastechnik Süd Germany marks a significant milestone for us as we enter into a new product category with the introduction of paddle agitators. Biogastechnik Süd is a pioneer in biogas components, and their Varibull Paddle Agitator is one of the best-selling agitators worldwide, trusted for its durability, low maintenance, and efficiency.”

Mainak Chakraborty, CEO and Co-founder, GPS Renewables, said, “Many Indian CBG plants that rely on conventional agitators face crusting, sediment build-up, uneven mixing, higher power consumption, and frequent breakdowns—challenges that directly impact throughput and reliability. As India’s leading full-stack biofuel firm offering TEPC services and critical process equipment under the OptiMaxx brand, we are committed to solving these issues through global technology partnerships, in-house R&D, and strong execution on the ground. Proven paddle agitators like Varibull from BGTS are purpose-built for tough substrates and will enable efficient mixing, lower energy use, and reliable, low-maintenance operation for CBG developers.”

Gregor Maier, CEO of Biogastechnik Süd, said, “At Biogastechnik Süd, our mission has always been to deliver reliable, efficient and durable technologies that add long-term value to biogas operators worldwide. India is one of the most important growth markets for bioenergy, and we are proud to partner with GPS Renewables, whose strong execution capabilities and deep sector understanding make them the ideal partner for localizing our solutions. The integration of our Varibull Paddle Agitator will help Indian plants maximize performance, reduce downtime, and ensure sustainable operations over decades.”

Robert Ohneberg, International Sales Manager at Biogastechnik Süd, added, “Our products are designed to perform under the toughest operating conditions. Many biogas and CBG plants in India struggle with uneven mixing, sedimentation, and excessive energy consumption. With GPS Renewables, we are confident that we can address these challenges effectively. The Varibull Paddle Agitator has become one of the best-selling agitators worldwide for its robustness, minimal maintenance needs, and efficiency. By bringing it to India, we aim to support developers and operators in achieving higher process stability, greater gas yields, and reduced lifecycle costs.”

Through this partnership, GPS Renewables will distribute and integrate Biogastechnik Süd paddle agitator technology within its turnkey plant solutions and OptiMaxx equipment portfolio, offering Indian CBG developers a proven, future-ready mixing solution.

About GPSR (GPS Renewables) Group

Headquartered in Bengaluru, GPS Renewables (“GPSR”) is a full-stack biofuels firm offering technology and project solutions for climate-positive biofuel projects. Starting from captive biogas plants, GPSR has scaled up to set up some of the world’s largest RNG plants. In 2022, GPS Renewables launched GPSR Arya Pvt Ltd (“ARYA”) a wholly-owned subsidiary, to commission BOO (Build-Own-Operate) projects, augmenting its climate impact ambitions.

GPSR has formed joint ventures with Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum, and Oil India to build compressed biogas (CBG) plants across India. These plants will process agricultural and organic waste, reduce carbon emissions, and support the government’s SATAT initiative.

About Biogastechnik Süd GmbH

In 1999, Biogastechnik Süd’s founders Clemens and Gregor Maier created the Varibull paddle agitator to overcome crusting and poor mixing issues on their own farm. Today, Varibull is the world’s best-selling mixer, proven in thousands of installations. Over the years, BGTS has expanded into a full range of biogas solutions—including paddle agitators, screw presses, feeding systems, and other critical plant components—developed from practice, for practice. This farmer-driven innovation ensures durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient technologies that deliver sustainable success for CBG developers worldwide.

About proweps

proweps envirotec GmbH is a Germany based international active consulting and engineering company specialized in technologies to utilize organic waste and biomass for biogas, biomethane or BioCNG or BioLNG production. The company offers a wide range of engineering services that are necessary for the realization of turnkey treatment plants. This includes feasibility studies, design & engineering, project management, supervision of construction and commissioning Furthermore key process equipment or key technologies required for turnkey plants are delivered as pretreatment, pasteurization, digester systems are completely supplied on customer demand. Long time international experience is the key for many successful projects realized on the international waste and biomethane market.

Japan's Sojitz Steps into India’s Clean Energy Sector through GPS Renewables’ New $400 Mn Biomethane Platform

Sojitz Corporation (“Sojitz”) invests in a holding structure of the special purpose company established jointly by GPS Renewables Private Limited. (“GPSR”) and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (“IOCL”), which designs, constructs, operates, and provides maintenance for biomethane plants in India (“GPSR-IOCL Biomethane Platform”). Through this strategic investment, Sojitz will foray into biomethane production and sales in India.

Sojitz will work in collaboration with IOC GPS Renewables Pvt. Ltd. (IGRPL), a joint venture between GPS Renewables and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, to develop and operate biomethane production facilities using agricultural waste as feedstock. IGRPL plans to establish 30 biomethane plants by FY 2026 - FY 2027 with a production capacity of 160,000 tons of biomethane annually. These projects have a total outlay of over USD 400 Mn. EY was the exclusive M&A investment banker and Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas led by Partner Alok Sonkar was the transaction advisor representing GPS Renewables.

GPS Renewables and Sojitz Corporation

Biomethane is produced by purifying biogas and it can be a direct replacement for fossil fuel, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting circular economy.

Commenting on the investment, Mainak Chakraborty, CEO and Co-Founder, GPS Renewables, said, “Sojitz and GPSR group have a shared vision of improving India’s energy self-sufficiency. As the country’s energy demand continues to rapidly grow, it’s crucial for us to prioritize biofuels and find ways to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. This collaboration with Sojitz is a step towards increasing the production of cleaner sources of energy while reducing air pollution caused by the open burning of agricultural waste”.

Sojitz indicates that India is one of its key strategic markets and plans to play an active role in its transition to renewable energy. Green transformation (GX) business is a priority for Sojitz, and to advance this initiative further, a dedicated organization has been set up to drive their GX initiatives. Sojitz currently focuses on developing renewable energy projects that have the potential to accelerate India’s biomethane sector while also addressing a few key environmental concerns such as air pollution.

Through this investment, Sojitz and GPSR will work to drive India’s clean energy goals by accelerating the expansion of biomethane production and operation across the country. The companies will leverage GPSR’s expertise in biomethane production processes, technology expertise, indepth experience in design, construction, operation, and maintenance of biomethane plants. Additionally, IOCL’s expansive network with gas consumers will play a crucial role in scaling distribution. Furthermore, Sojitz will assess opportunities for biomethane production beyond India by deploying GPSR’s technology in new regions to explore opportunities in the broader bioenergy sector.

About Sojitz Group

Sojitz Corporation was formed out of the union of Nichimen Corporation and Nissho Iwai Corporation, both companies that boast incredibly long histories. For more than 160 years, their business has helped support the development of countless countries and regions. Today, the Sojitz Group consists of approximately 400 subsidiaries and affiliates located in Japan and throughout the world, developing wide-ranging general trading company operations in a multitude of countries and regions.

Sojitz Group is engaged in a wide range of businesses globally, including manufacturing, selling, importing, and exporting a variety of products, in addition to providing services and investing in diversified businesses, both in Japan and overseas. Sojitz operates with a 7-division structure comprising the Automotive Division; the Aerospace, Transportation & Infrastructure Division; the Energy Solutions & Healthcare Division; the Metals, Mineral Resources & Recycling Division; the Chemicals Division; the Consumer Industry & Agriculture Business Division; and the Retail & Consumer Service Division.

About GPSR Group

Headquartered in Bengaluru, GPS Renewables (“GPSR”) is a full-stack biofuels firm offering technology and project solutions for climate-positive biofuel projects. Starting from captive biogas plants, GPSR has scaled up to set up some of the world’s largest RNG plants. In 2022, GPS Renewables launched GPSR Arya Pvt Ltd (“ARYA”) a wholly-owned subsidiary, to commission BOO (Build-Own-Operate) projects, augmenting its climate impact ambitions.

Asia's Largest Compressed Biogas (CBG) Plant Coming Up Gujarat's Navsari; To Produce Over 16K Tons of Biogas Annually

• Gruner Renewable to Build Asia’s largest CBG Plant in Gujarat; to Invest Rs 220 crores
• Gujarat is currently seeing significant interest in the green energy space, with major Indian business conglomerates announcing new renewable energy projects in the state.

Gruner Renewable Energy, in collaboration with a leading business conglomerate, is all set to establish Asia's largest Compressed Biogas (CBG) plant in Navsari, Gujarat. This will mark a significant step towards a cleaner and greener future for India and in line with the government’s efforts to increase dependency on renewable energy solutions. The estimated cost of this plant at Navsari is approximately Rs. 220 crores.

The flagship CBG plant in Navsari is expected to produce an impressive 44 tons of biogas per day (TPD) using cost-effective feedstocks such as paddy, pressmud, canetrash and OF MSW. This equates to an annual production of over 16,000 tons of biogas, highlighting the plant's significant contribution to PM Narendra Modi's vision for India's energy independence and sustainability goals.

Gujarat is currently experiencing a surge of interest in the green energy sector, with major Indian business entities announcing new renewable energy projects in the state. In 2018, Gujarat pioneered the nation's first Hybrid Policy, resulting in an installed capacity of 1,373 MW. Beyond wind and solar energy, the state has diversified its renewable energy portfolio.

Utkarsh Gupta, Founder & CEO of Gruner Renewable Energy, emphasized the company's efforts to address climate change and promote economic growth through sustainable energy solutions. “Since our inception in 2023, Gruner has been committed to mitigating climate risks by converting waste into biogas, thereby promoting environmental sustainability. As India work towards decreasing reliance on fossil fuels, opening of plants like Navsari is going to play a critical role in meeting our goals of championing sustainable energy solutions. Furthermore, in addition to generating employment opportunities within the biofuel sector, the establishment of CBG plants will significantly reduce our country's crude oil import bill,” added Gupta.

The Navsari CBG plant is a crucial step in India's CBG-based rural economy master plan. The local population will directly or indirectly benefit by the opening of this plant with work opportunities created for stakeholders like farmers, suppliers, labourers and youth among others.

Gruner has strategically planned this facility, from selecting high-yielding and cost-effective feedstocks like pressmud, paddy, OF MSW and canetrash to its optimal location. These choices will ensure high-quality biofuel production while simplifying the feedstock supply chain, improving availability, and eliminating pretreatment costs. Additionally, by converting industrial waste products into CBG, the new plant will address disposal challenges and help to reduce environmental pollution.

While speaking at the inaugural ceremony of India Energy Week (IEW) earlier this year, PM Modi stated that India’s energy sector will see an investment of over $67 billion over the next five years. He also unveiled plans for the establishment of 5,000 CBG plants across India.

Based on Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOCL’s) white paper on CBG, the estimated CBG potential from various sources in India is nearly 62 million metric tons (MMT) with bio manure generation capacity of 370 MMT.

According to data from the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell, India's gas production stands at 29,769 million metric standard cubic meters (mmscm) against a consumption of 55,256 mmscm. This results in a shortfall of 25,488 mmscm, or 46.12% of total consumption, currently met through imports. “CBG has the potential to bridge this gap, and Gruner Renewable Energy recognized this critical need early on, understanding the importance of CBG in the growth of India's renewable energy sector. We expect that the push for renewable energy will further strengthen under the term of the new government,” said Gupta.

With an unwavering focus on innovation and sustainability, Gruner Renewable Energy continues to spearhead the revolution in the biogas industry. The company remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive business growth while fostering positive environmental and societal impacts.

About Gruner Renewable Energy:

Established in February 2023, Gruner Renewable Energy has quickly become a premier provider of sustainable energy solutions, dedicated to reducing carbon footprints and achieving sustainability objectives. Leveraging advanced German technology, the company offers end-to-end solutions encompassing the entire plant setup process. Gruner Renewable is a proud member of the Indian Biogas Association, driven by a vision to revolutionize India's energy industry.

Gruner Renewable excels in installing top-tier biogas plants known for their affordability and user-friendliness. Headquartered in Noida, the company has achieved remarkable success in a short period, surpassing a turnover of INR 40 crores within just five months of its inception and currently managing over 50 projects. Starting with a team of four, Gruner has grown into a conglomerate with 200 employees.

Gruner Renewable Energy is committed to paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future. Their expertise in biogas production aims to mitigate environmental impact while promoting renewable energy sources. The company's strategic approach to using high-yield, cost-effective feedstocks ensures the production of high-quality biofuel, addressing significant waste disposal challenges and contributing to a cleaner environment.

ONGC Forms JV with EverEnviro to Establish 10 Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) Plants in India

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and EverEnviro Resource Management have formed a 50/50 joint venture to establish 10 compressed biogas (CBG) plants across India. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote clean energy and reduce the country's carbon footprint. This joint venture is a significant step towards enhancing domestic renewable energy production and reducing India's reliance on imported gas.

The collaboration aligns with the Government of India's initiatives like the Global Bio-Fuels Alliance and the ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2070.

The CBG plants are expected to utilize various types of organic waste to produce biogas, which can be used as a renewable source of energy. By utilizing diverse feedstocks such as agricultural waste, agro-industrial waste, energy crops, and municipal solid waste (MSW), the partnership aims to mitigate approximately 7.5 lakh tons of CO2 equivalent annually.

This move is also emphasizes the transition to clean energy by utilizing agro-industrial waste and MSW. The CBG plants will contribute significantly to mitigating carbon emissions, and the fermented organic manure produced as a byproduct will promote regenerative agriculture, enhancing soil health and fertility.

This aligns with India's commitment to increase the share of natural gas in its energy mix and support the global transition to a low-carbon economy.

The collaboration between ONGC and EverEnviro is an excellent example of how public and private sectors can work together to foster sustainable development and energy security.

EverEnviro Resource Management Private Limited, established by EverSource Capital in 2019, is a leading developer in the Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) sector in India. EverSource Capital is known for being India's leading climate impact investor and is an equal joint venture between the Everstone Group and Europe's Lightsource Bp.

EverEnviro is at the forefront of climate solution businesses, focusing on technologies and businesses that can limit environmental damage and promote sustainability. They are involved in various projects, including waste to energy, construction and demolition waste management, renewable natural gas, and collection and transportation of municipal solid waste.

The company is committed to developing green and brownfield projects that produce a low carbon alternative to fossil fuel-based natural gas. With a significant capital investment, EverEnviro is executing about 20 CBG projects across different states in India, aiming for a robust output of CBG.

EverEnviro's capital initiatives reflect their vision to lead the world in circular and sustainable climate solutions, creating a brighter and cleaner future for all.

It may recalled that under the GOBARdhan initiative of the Union Government, there exist over 1200 plants including 320 CBG plants and 892 Biogas plants, spread across the length and breadth of the country, covering as many as 450 districts, as per the records by Unified Registration Portal for GOBARdhan, on July 2023.

Compressed biogas (CBG) holds significant importance as a renewable energy resource due to its multiple benefits. Firstly, it is produced from organic waste materials through anaerobic digestion, making it a sustainable and renewable source of energy. Secondly, by capturing methane from organic waste, CBG production helps mitigate greenhouse gas emissions that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere.

The compression of biogas increases its energy density, making it a more practical and efficient fuel source for various applications. CBG can be used directly to produce electricity and heat, as an energy source for cooking, and is fully compatible for use in natural gas vehicles.

Moreover, Biogas systems recycle organic waste into renewable energy and soil products, reducing the volume of waste and preventing nutrients from entering waterways. Thus, CBG production can turn waste treatment into a revenue-generating opportunity, create new revenue streams, and offer local jobs in construction, engineering, project management, and more

Moving manure from open lagoons to an airtight biogas system reduces GHG emissions and helps protect air, water, and soil. Biogas systems can produce renewable energy 24/7/365 with a high reliability rate, supporting distributed generation of energy.

CBG is a key component in the transition to a low-carbon economy, offering environmental, economic, and energy benefits while promoting sustainable development and energy security.

India's Two Associations for – Biogas (IBA) and Hydrogen (HAI), Join Hands to Promote Hydrogen As Bio-based Energy

Two of India's Associations in energy sector — the Indian Biogas Association (IBA) and the Hydrogen Association of India (HAI) — have joined hands to promote the use of hydrogen as a bio-based energy solution. This collaboration is aimed at advancing the production and use of green and blue hydrogen, with a focus on sustainable energy initiatives and policy advocacy.

The partnership is expected to drive significant market growth, with the green hydrogen market in India forecasted to reach a total worth of $8 billion by 2030 and $340 billion by 2050. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between IBA and HAI reflects a shared commitment to reducing the country's reliance on imported energy sources and supporting India's green energy goals.

This strategic alliance will include comprehensive measures such as training, capacity building, and policy advocacy, all directed towards promoting and advancing bio-based energy solutions. It's an important step towards achieving sustainable growth and energy independence for India.

Under the partnership between the Indian Biogas Association (IBA) and the Hydrogen Association of India (HAI), several specific initiatives have been planned to promote hydrogen as a bio-based energy solution. Below are some key projects:

• Training and Capacity Building: The collaboration will facilitate comprehensive measures including training programs and capacity building for stakeholders involved in the production and use of green and blue hydrogen.
• Policy Advocacy: Both associations aim to engage in policy advocacy to support the bio-hydrogen and biogas ecosystem, leveraging government initiatives to achieve India's green energy goals.
• Promotion of Green and Blue Hydrogen: The strategic alliance is set to catalyze the promotion and advancement of bio-based energy solutions, with a special focus on green and blue hydrogen.
• Steel Industry Utilization: There is a significant focus on the utilization of hydrogen within the steel industry. The process involves breaking methane molecules inherent within biogas to yield both carbon and hydrogen, offering a viable solution for the industry's requirements.
• Market Growth for Blue Hydrogen: The partnership is expected to give an extra push to blue hydrogen, with projections indicating that its market could increase to 80 million metric tons by 2050, contingent upon global governmental efforts to enforce regulations that foster the adoption of emission-free fuel sources.

These projects are part of a larger effort to minimize the country's reliance on imported energy sources and to support sustainable growth and energy independence for India.

Notably, HAI has signed memorandums of understanding with other associations, like the Scottish Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association, to foster international collaboration.

The Indian Biogas Association (IBA) is a prominent organization in India, established with the goal of promoting biogas as a sustainable and renewable energy source. One of the primary objectives of the IBA is to set up 5000 new commercial biogas plants by the end of the year 2024.

The IBA aims to increase awareness of biogas, promote research and development activities in the sector, and improve the business scenario of the biogas industry by advocating for conducive policies.

The Hydrogen Association of India (HAI) is a key organization dedicated to the growth and development of hydrogen energy in India. HAI was established with the mission to promote, encourage, and develop the growth of hydrogen energy and its applications in India. HAI conducts scientific activities, disseminates information on hydrogen energy developments, and provides technical advice to government and commercial bodies.

Moreover, HAI also organizes international conferences and events to further the discussion and development of hydrogen energy solutions. For example, the 10th International Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Conference was held in December, last year. 

India Mandates Blending of Compressed Bio-Gas in CNG (Transport) and PNG (Domestic) Segments of CGD Sector

• CBG Blending Obligation (CBO) to encourage investment and facilitate establishment of 750 CBG projects by 2028-29 : Petroleum Minister Hardeep S Puri
• CBO to help in saving forex, promoting circular economy and achieving Net Zero Emission
• Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF/Bio- ATF) indicative blending percentage targets set
• Production of ethanol from maize to be promoted through various multidepartment initiatives
• CBG Blending Obligation (CBO) will promote production and consumption of Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) in the country, said Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs.

In a major step towards enhancing use and adoption of CBG, the National Biofuels Coordination Committee (NBCC), chaired by Union Petroleum Minister announced yesterday the introduction of phase wise mandatory blending of CBG in CNG (Transport) & PNG (Domestic) segments of City Gas Distribution (CGD) sector.

The key objectives of the CBO are to stimulate demand for CBG in CGD sector, import substitution for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), saving in Forex, promoting circular economy and to assist in achieving the target of net zero emission etc. Highlighting the key outcomes of the CBO, Shri Puri Said that it will encourage investment of around Rs. 37500 crores and facilitate establishment of 750 CBG projects by 2028-29.

It was, inter-alia, decided that:

1. CBO will be voluntary till FY 2024-2025 and mandatory blending obligation would start from FY 2025-26.
2. CBO shall be kept as 1%, 3% and 4% of total CNG/PNG consumption for FY 2025-26, 2026- 27 and 2027-28 respectively. From 2028-29 onwards CBO will be 5%.
3. A Central Repository Body (CRB) shall monitor and implement the blending mandate based on the operational guidelines approved by Minister, PNG.

Discussions also took place for promoting production of ethanol from maize with all stake holders especially with Department of Agriculture and Department Food and Public distribution (DFPD) to make it a prominent feedstock in coming years. It was discussed that the last few years there is increase in Maize cultivation area, yield per hectare and production. Work has been initiated by this ministry in consultation with Department of Agriculture and DFPD to further develop high starch yielding varieties, improve quality of maize DDGS (Dried Distillers Grain Solids) by removing aflatoxins, faster registration of new seed varieties with high starch. To further promote maize training program for distillers with seed companies has also been initiated.

On Friday, another important announcement was made for promoting biofuels in the country. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF/Bio- ATF) initial indicative blending percentage targets were set by the committee. Based on the comments received from the stakeholders, like MoCA, Niti Aayog, OMCs, etc., the capacities of Sustainable Aviation Fuel plants coming up in the country and projected ATF sales, the following initial indicative blending percentages of SAF in ATF are approved:1% SAF indicative blending target in 2027 ( Initially for International flights) 2% SAF blending target in 2028 (Initially for International flights). 

Germany’s Bioenergy Ties with Noida-based Gruner Renewables To Introduce India's 1st Napier Grass Bio CNG Plant

Bio Energy, a German company that provides technology and engineering design for biomass-based gas plants, has partnered with Noida-based Gruner Renewable Energy (GRE), to Enter India market.

Founded by Uttkarsh Gupta, GRE is sustainable energy company that creates renewable fuel from biomass and bio wastes. The partnership with BioEnergy Germany will introduce India's first Napier Grass Bio CNG Plant.

On Sunday, GRE and BioEnergy Germany signed the partnership agreement to develop 100 BioCNG plants using multiple feedstocks like Napier grass, in India.

Napier grass, elephant grass or Uganda grass, is a species of perennial tropical grass native to the African grasslands. It is specifically stored for the production of biofuels and bio-based products, primarily due to its high cellulose content (34.2-40%), high yields per unit area and drought tolerance.

The Napier grass based bio CNG plant is scheduled to be completed in November and is coming up in Lasanpur Village, Wardha district of Maharashtra. With completion of this state-of-the-art plant, a significant milestone will achieved for India's quest for cleaner and greener energy solutions.

The plant is said to be inspired by the Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari’s speeches, and is claimed to be the country’s first bio-CNG plant using Napier grass as feedstock.

Till date, Napier grass is mainly used in India as a fodder crop, used as feed to the cattle directly or made as hay or even silage to feed farm animals.

The upcoming plant in Maharashtra will not only provide a clean and reliable energy source but will also promote agricultural sustainability and provide new avenues for rural development.

The 20-year-old BioEnergy has built over 300 plants in 12 countries and is currently building the world’s biggest one, in Malawi in southern Africa (where the gas will fuel a 56 MW power plant). BioEnergy has experience in handling 580 types of feedstock.

In India, the reported annual production yield of Napier grass ranges from 150-200 tonnes per acre per year, which is significantly higher (25-35 tonnes per hectare) compared to other energy grasses like miscanthus and switchgrass.

This fast-growing Napier grass can reach a height of 10-15 feet and can be harvested 5-6 times annually.

In February this year, Delhi based CEF Group announced of setting up multiple waste processing plants in various locations in Uttar Pradesh to address the problem of waste mismanagement and augment bio-fuel production, utilising Napier grass as one of the sources for bioenergy. The group is investing ₹650 crore for the same.

Late last month, the GOBARdhan initiative of the Union Government, has said that in a short span of just 60 days, over 1200 plants including 320 CBG plants and 892 Biogas plants, spread across the length and breadth of the country, covering as many as 450 districts have been registered on the GOBARdhan portal.

Waste To Wealth: 1200+ BioGas Plants Across 450 Indian Districts Registered on GOBARdhan Portal within Just 60 Days

CBG Plant, Ms Goverdhannathji Energies LLP, Kheda, Gujarat

The GOBARdhan initiative of the Union Government, which aims to transform “Waste to Wealth” using a “Whole of Government” approach, has started stimulating investments and reaping good results by creating a nurturing ecosystem for Compressed Biogas (CBG)/Biogas through a slew of policy enablers and attractive benefits.

Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan (GOBARdhan) is an umbrella initiative of Govt. of India based on the whole of Government approach. It covers the entire gamut of schemes/programmes/policies promoting the conversion of organic waste like cattle dung/ agri-residue etc. to biogas/ CBG/ Bio CNG.

The Unified Registration Portal for GOBARdhan was launched by the Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Mr Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on 1st June 2023, is witnessing laudable enthusiasm from States/UTs and CBG/Biogas operators/ investors.

In a short span of just 60 days, over 1200 plants including 320 CBG plants and 892 Biogas plants, spread across the length and breadth of the country, covering as many as 450 districts have been registered on the portal.

CBG Plant, Mahindra Waste to Energy Solutions Ltd, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

Among these, 52 Commissioned CBG plants registered on the portal have the capacity to process more than 6600 Tonne Per Day (TPD) of organic/agri residue to produce more than 300 TPD of CBG and more than 2000 TPD of Fermented Organic Manure (FOM).

The GOBARdhan portal streamlines the process of registration of functional, under construction or yet-to-start Biogas/Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants across the country.

The registrations are projected to rise further considering the renewed commitment and emphasis of the Government of India in creating a nurturing CBG/ Biogas ecosystem through a slew of enablers such as framing a scheme for Market Development Assistance (MDA) of Rs. 1500/Ton for promotion of organic fertilizers (co-product of GOBARdhan plants), amendment in Fertilizer Control Order to make marketing of FOM/Liquid FOM easier, exemption of central excise duty to CNG blended with CBG to prevent double taxation, inclusion of CBG in the list of activities for trading of carbon credit under bilateral/ cooperative approaches etc.

The CBG/Biogas operators/investors have welcomed the various initiatives under GOBARDhan. The upcoming policies such as fiscal support for biomass aggregation, pipeline connectivity from the CBG plants to the city gas distribution grid etc. are envisioned to create greater awareness and participation for the stakeholders across the value chain.

GOBARdhan initiative has been undertaken with the objective of scientific management of organic/ biodegradable waste while also providing resource and monetary benefits to rural households. The initiative is a convergence of interest and efforts of Government of India, State Governments, private players and other stakeholders.

Anyone who operates or intending to setup a biogas/ CBG/ Bio CNG plant in India can obtain a registration number by registering in this unified regitration portal. The registration number is required to avail benefits/ support from other Ministries/ Departments.

Who can apply

Any government/ private entity operating or intending to setup a Biogas/ CBG/ Bio CNG plant can apply in this portal.

For Biogas plants, the designed gas production capacity should be greater than or equal to 10 cubic meter per day.

For Step by step guideline for registration, check this YouTube video

 

Bengaluru-based BuoFuel Tech Firm GPS Renewables Receives Patent for Its Decentralised Distributed Biogas Model

GPS Renewables strengthens IP Portfolio; receives patent for its Decentralised Distributed Biogas model

GPS Renewables, a Bengaluru based biofuels technology and EPC firm, has received a patent from Intellectual Property India for its Decentralised Distributed Biogas model (DISPRED model).

GPS Renewables’ DISPRED model which stands for DIStributedPREDigestion is a 100% decentralized model. It enables the direct many-to-one or many-to-many mapping of Waste Generators to Bulk Energy Users in a completely B2B way.

GPS- DISPRED MODEL

GPS’ unique proprietary model bypasses the standard global approach of transporting food waste to a centralised location, processing it, and then bottling and delivering it to energy users. Transportation of waste accounts for 60-70 percent of waste management costs. By adopting the DISPRED Model, the cost of transportation as well as the distance of transport greatly reduces.

The DISPRED model includes:

• Pre-digestor: The Pre-digestor is an ultra-compact Liquid Anaerobic Composter (LAC) that processes and converts food waste at source into a stable pre-digestate, which does not release any biogas. It can be set up in basements or terraces of apartment communities and requires merely 200 sq ft of space for 1 ton waste. The LAC is located at the waste generator’s premises or other designated area near the waste generator. In waste management, about 60-70% of expenses are in transportation of waste. But the slurry from the predigestor needs to be collected once in 4 - 5 days, thus reducing the transportation cost of transportation costs
• Gas Generation Unit: The second component of the model is the Gas Generation Unit(GGU) that processes the pre-digestate (slurry) produced by Liquid Anaerobic Composter (LAC). The slurry, which is essentially fuel, can be easily transported in tankers, without creating a mess. Hence, the GGU can be set up anywhere, where there is space available and there's a need for large volumes of LPG/PNG.
• Scheduler: A scheduler tracks every Liquid Anaerobic Composter and communicates the number of tons of pre-digestate to be picked up from each unit to the pre-digestate carrier. The collection can be done on a predetermined route increasing the overall efficiency.

Designed for apartment communities and housing societies, the DISPRED model is easy to manage and operate. The biogas generated from the ‘Gas Generation Unit’ can replace LPG/CNG, thus generating revenues. The DISPRED Model allows maximum resource utilisation of the food waste and ensures segregation at source Since the processing of food waste starts early, it has the highest possible biogas productivity potential. Furthermore, since the biogas is generated near the point of usage, no additional resources are wasted in bottling and transportation of biogas.

Commenting on this, Sreekrishna Sankar, COO and Co-Founder, GPS Renewables, said, “Rapid urbanisation and a burgeoning population have led to an exponential increase in the generation of municipal solid waste (MSW). GPS Renewables’ DISPRED Model has been designed to remove all the challenges that are usually seen in the standard centralised model of waste collection and treatment.”

“ There are no two ways about the fact that the future is all about sustainability and renewable energy. Biogas generation from food waste diverts the entire food waste from landfills. Thus, avoiding the harmful impact of poorly managed waste. Moreover, the biogas generated replaces usage of fossil fuel, thus further contributing to the mitigation of GreenHouse Gases.” he added.

About GPS Renewables

GPS Renewables is a Series B funded cleantech company headquartered in Bangalore. The company focuses on biofuel technologies to solve the organic waste management challenge, accelerate substitution of fossil fuel with bioenergy and play a key role in mitigating climate change. Starting from captive biogas plants, GPS has scaled up to setup some of the world’s largest BioCNG plants, including Indore city’s recently commissioned 500TPD BioCNG plant.

For more information: http://www.gpsrenewables.com/

SustainEarth - A Clean-Tech Startup Providing Low-Cost Biogas Plant For Household Use In Rural Communities

In today's world where everybody is thinking about themselves, there’s an organization which is thinking about others. SustainEarth is a Chennai based startup which converts animal waste into clean fuel solutions by integrating issues of energy and livelihood.

There are many rural areas in India where electricity is still a farfetched dream and modern cooking fuels such as PNG and LPG are either very expensive or completely inaccessible. Under such circumstances, Biogas Technology is the only hope and SustainEarth is working to provide these areas with just that.

The organization which went live in September, 2013 has a mission to provide solutions for the problems in energy access in rural areas. In order to fulfill its mission, the organization is developing Biogas applications and combining them with innovative business models so as to make them more affordable and accessible for the rural population.

The organization has a core team of three members which includes its co-founder and CEO Piyush Sohani, co-founder and Director of Operation Koushik Yanamandram and co-founder and Chief Technologist Shankar Ramakrishnan. Though the organization went live in 2013, it was envisaged back in 2012 when the three founders had visited various rural parts of India. During their visits they realized that these areas have acute scarcity and access of clean cooking fuel and electricity. Instead of feeling bad about the situation, the three of them decided to do some action and came up with SustainEarth.

The organization which was set up under Companies Act of 1956 has support from Villgro Innovation Foundation, which is a not for profit organization based in IIT Madras research park. Villgro is providing support to SustainEarth through its entrepreneur in residence program.

The Chennai based startup currently has its eyes set on achieving its mission of providing Biogas technology to all needful rural areas. The organization has already been successful in completing a few pilot projects in some areas of Andhra Pradesh and is constantly working towards increasing its reach and impact.

SustainEarth innovatively addresses issues of livelihood and clean energy in rural India, with a pilot in South India and potential to scale across the country. With almost 1.5 lakh dairy animals in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, animal waste will be converted into clean biogas fuel using a portable, easy to install and use system.

[caption id="attachment_95384" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Sustainearth's Biogas plant in Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh which gives 2 hours clean cooking gas from food waste [/caption]

The startup builds user-friendly, economical and reliable biogas plants in rural areas. The base of operation is currently in and around Andhra Pradesh but the organization has future plans of expanding to the whole of India. The startup's biogas system is a low cost robust system that converts animal waste into clean cooking fuel. The system is extremely user friendly as it is very easy to install it and operate. The system is extremely portable, occupies less space and comes with an assurance of product support from SustainEarth.

About 144 million Indian households (represents 88% of total rural households) do not have access to clean cooking fuel. ​Main cooking fuels used are firewood, crop residues and cowdung cakes. Traditional cookstoves used mostly with little or no ventilation causes Household Air Pollution (HAP). As per WHO estimates HAP causes about 1 million annual deaths in India alone. Apart from this, millions are suffering from cancer, pneumonia, heart and lung diseases, blindness and burns.

whereas, A Biogas plant requires dung from 2-3 cattles to produces sufficient clean cooking gas for a family of 5. SustainEarth Energy is dedicated to solve challenges in rural energy access and developing Biogas applications and combining with innovative business models to make it more affordable for India's rural consumers.

In today's world where everyone is busy and focused on themselves, this organization is a welcome change.

SustainEarth - A Clean-Tech Startup Providing Low-Cost Biogas Plant For Household Use In Rural Communities

In today's world where everybody is thinking about themselves, there’s an organization which is thinking about others. SustainEarth is a Chennai based startup which converts animal waste into clean fuel solutions by integrating issues of energy and livelihood.

There are many rural areas in India where electricity is still a farfetched dream and modern cooking fuels such as PNG and LPG are either very expensive or completely inaccessible. Under such circumstances, Biogas Technology is the only hope and SustainEarth is working to provide these areas with just that.

The organization which went live in September, 2013 has a mission to provide solutions for the problems in energy access in rural areas. In order to fulfill its mission, the organization is developing Biogas applications and combining them with innovative business models so as to make them more affordable and accessible for the rural population.

The organization has a core team of three members which includes its co-founder and CEO Piyush Sohani, co-founder and Director of Operation Koushik Yanamandram and co-founder and Chief Technologist Shankar Ramakrishnan. Though the organization went live in 2013, it was envisaged back in 2012 when the three founders had visited various rural parts of India. During their visits they realized that these areas have acute scarcity and access of clean cooking fuel and electricity. Instead of feeling bad about the situation, the three of them decided to do some action and came up with SustainEarth.

The organization which was set up under Companies Act of 1956 has support from Villgro Innovation Foundation, which is a not for profit organization based in IIT Madras research park. Villgro is providing support to SustainEarth through its entrepreneur in residence program.

The Chennai based startup currently has its eyes set on achieving its mission of providing Biogas technology to all needful rural areas. The organization has already been successful in completing a few pilot projects in some areas of Andhra Pradesh and is constantly working towards increasing its reach and impact.

SustainEarth innovatively addresses issues of livelihood and clean energy in rural India, with a pilot in South India and potential to scale across the country. With almost 1.5 lakh dairy animals in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, animal waste will be converted into clean biogas fuel using a portable, easy to install and use system.

[caption id="attachment_95384" align="aligncenter" width="700"] Sustainearth's Biogas plant in Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh which gives 2 hours clean cooking gas from food waste [/caption]

The startup builds user-friendly, economical and reliable biogas plants in rural areas. The base of operation is currently in and around Andhra Pradesh but the organization has future plans of expanding to the whole of India. The startup's biogas system is a low cost robust system that converts animal waste into clean cooking fuel. The system is extremely user friendly as it is very easy to install it and operate. The system is extremely portable, occupies less space and comes with an assurance of product support from SustainEarth.

About 144 million Indian households (represents 88% of total rural households) do not have access to clean cooking fuel. ​Main cooking fuels used are firewood, crop residues and cowdung cakes. Traditional cookstoves used mostly with little or no ventilation causes Household Air Pollution (HAP). As per WHO estimates HAP causes about 1 million annual deaths in India alone. Apart from this, millions are suffering from cancer, pneumonia, heart and lung diseases, blindness and burns.

whereas, A Biogas plant requires dung from 2-3 cattles to produces sufficient clean cooking gas for a family of 5. SustainEarth Energy is dedicated to solve challenges in rural energy access and developing Biogas applications and combining with innovative business models to make it more affordable for India's rural consumers.

In today's world where everyone is busy and focused on themselves, this organization is a welcome change.