Uttar Pradesh: In a significant stride towards sustainable energy, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Puri commended Uttar Pradesh’s dedication to clean energy initiatives during the inauguration of eight new compressed biogas plants. Addressing an audience at Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s residence, Puri emphasized the state’s ambitious goals and commitment to establishing 100 biogas plants, surpassing the already sanctioned 37.
The Badaun Plant:
The recently inaugurated plant in Badaun spread across 50 acres with a substantial Rs 135 crore investment, stands as a testament to Uttar Pradesh’s proactive approach. This state-of-the-art facility is poised to produce 14 tonnes of compressed biogas daily, contributing significantly to the region’s clean energy landscape.
Financial Incentives and Support:
Highlighting the collaborative efforts between the Union and state governments, Puri underscored the financial incentives available. Apart from the Union government’s support, Uttar Pradesh offers grants up to Rs 20 crore under its bio-energy policy, coupled with advantageous terms like low lease rents and electricity subsidies.
Optimal Agricultural Residue Collection:
Acknowledging the challenge of limited agricultural residue, the state government has introduced measures to support optimal collection through machinery. This strategic approach aims to address environmental concerns while ensuring sustainable practices in residue utilization.
Importance of Biofuels:
Puri stressed the critical need to transition to biofuels, citing environmental hazards associated with burning agricultural residue and India’s substantial petroleum consumption. The state’s implementation of the State BioEnergy Promotion Programme—2018, offering incentives like 100% reimbursement of state GST and stamp duty exemptions, further reinforces its commitment to sustainable energy practices.
Chief Minister’s Vision:
Chief Minister Adityanath reaffirmed his government’s dedication to actualizing the Prime Minister’s vision of converting waste into energy. He emphasized the multifaceted benefits, including pollution reduction, income augmentation for farmers through residue purchase, job creation, and attracting investments.
Alternative Feedstock Development:
Uttar Pradesh’s comprehensive policy extends beyond biogas plants, focusing on developing alternative feedstock for bio-energy. Encouraging the cultivation of non-edible oil seeds and small rotation crops on barren lands involves farmer-producer companies and rural entrepreneurs, fostering a holistic and inclusive approach to sustainable energy production.
