Source: Down to Earth

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Context

• Uttar Pradesh has significant potential to contribute to India's renewable energy landscape by generating 24% of the nation's compressed biogas (CBG), leveraging its rich feedstock availability.
• Despite promising potential, the CBG sector in UP faces challenges such as limited offtake of bioslurry, gas purchasing issues, lack of skilled personnel and financing difficulties, requiring strategic planning and collaboration to overcome.

Details

Key Points

• Uttar Pradesh's potential to generate 24% of India's CBG is highlighted, making it a key player in the nation's renewable energy strategy.
• The state's bioenergy policy includes a significant allocation of Rs 750 crore for CBG development from 2022-27, showcasing its commitment to renewable energy.
• Challenges such as limited offtake of bioslurry, partial gas offtake by oil and gas companies, and financing difficulties need to be addressed for optimal sector growth.

Biogas:

• Biogas is produced from organic waste and offers an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels, aligning with sustainable development goals.
• Compressed biogas (CBG) can enhance waste management practices, turning agricultural residues and organic waste into valuable energy resources.
• Reports like the CSE highlight the potential of biogas in reducing dependence on imported fuels, contributing to energy security and environmental sustainability.

CNG:

• Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a cleaner alternative to other fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and urban air pollution.
• CNG is currently imported, and increasing domestic production of CBG can decrease reliance on imports, aligning with energy self-sufficiency goals.
• Integration of CNG and CBG in transportation can be a significant step towards achieving India's targets under the National Policy on Biofuels.

CSE:

• The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) is a key think tank providing research and policy recommendations on environmental issues, including renewable energy.
• CSE's reports and symposia, such as the one in Muzaffarnagar, play a crucial role in highlighting challenges and opportunities in the CBG sector.
• CSE's advocacy for better waste management and clean energy solutions supports India's sustainable development and environmental policies.

India's Energy Demand:

• India's growing energy demand requires a diversified energy mix, including renewable sources like CBG, to ensure energy security and sustainability.
• Policies like the National Action Plan on Climate Change emphasize the importance of renewable energy in meeting India's energy needs.
• The Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) scheme aims to promote CBG production, contributing to India's energy diversification and sustainability goals.

UPNEDA:

• The Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA) is instrumental in implementing the state's bioenergy policy and promoting renewable energy projects.
• UPNEDA's initiatives include providing subsidies, land for lease, and other incentives to boost CBG production in the state.
• UPNEDA's efforts to involve farmers and local stakeholders in bioenergy projects ensure community participation and shared benefits, supporting rural development and energy access.

Sources:

Down to Earth

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a key component of India's strategy for clean transportation fuels. Discuss the potential of bio-CNG derived from Compressed Biogas (CBG) in achieving energy security and environmental sustainability.