Delhi, 28 June (H.S.): The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has revised guidelines for the Biomass Programme under Phase-I of the National Bioenergy Programme, covering FY 2021–22 to 2025–26, to enhance cleaner energy adoption and ease business operations. Key amendments include streamlined processes that reduce paperwork and approval requirements, aiding MSMEs in increasing production and aligning with India’s net-zero emissions goal by 2070.
Significantly, the guidelines endorse the integration of IoT-based monitoring, allowing easier data submissions rather than costly SCADA systems, enhancing cost-effectiveness for smaller operators. Documentation simplification means briquette and pellet manufacturing developers will have fewer clearance-related documents, saving time and promoting ease of doing business.
Furthermore, the shift from mandatory two-year contracts for briquette and pellet sales to more flexible general sale agreements enables project developers to adapt to market changes without long-term contract constraints. The subsidy disbursement under Central Financial Assistance (CFA) is now performance-based, with projects exceeding 80% efficiency eligible for full funding, incentivizing operational efficiency.
The performance inspection period has been adjusted for convenience, now allowing inspections within 18 months from either commissioning or in-principle approval, whichever is later. The inspection requirement has also been reduced to a continuous 10-hour operational check, aimed at confirming operational capacities.
Additionally, to tackle air pollution from stubble burning, specific provisions allow biomass pellet producers in affected regions to select advantageous support schemes from MNRE or CPCB.
These updated guidelines will facilitate the biomass programme’s execution, ensure prompt financial support for commissioned plants, and encourage the establishment of more biomass-based operations, thereby addressing agricultural waste and promoting sustainable waste management and pollution reduction strategies. Overall, the revisions foster a conducive environment for biomass technology adoption in India.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
