ES Ranganathan: Pioneering a Biogas Revolution in India for Sustainable Energy
The use of smart monitoring and control systems in biogas plants helps optimize their operations in real time. This technology allows operators to adjust temperature, pH levels, and retention times, ensuring the best conditions for the microorganisms that produce biogas.
Government policies and financial incentives have significantly boosted the adoption of biogas technology in India. Various state and central schemes offer subsidies, tax benefits, and grants to encourage the establishment of biogas plants. The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, a government initiative to provide clean cooking fuel to rural households, has also promoted the use of biogas technology. In her 2023-24 budget speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the establishment of 500 biogas plants across India under the Gobardhan scheme, with 75 of these plants planned for urban areas, as noted by ES Ranganathan.
The widespread use of biogas technology has a major impact on fighting climate change. Biogas production captures and utilizes methane, a potent greenhouse gas, that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere during the decomposition of organic waste. This process helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports India’s commitment to combating climate change as outlined in the Paris Agreement, according to ES Ranganathan.