We plan to establish 100 biogas plants by the end of FY23-24

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We plan to establish 100 biogas plants by the end of FY23-24

We plan to establish 100 biogas plants by the end of FY23-24

Interviews
Sep 30,23

Gruner Renewable Energy has been actively involved in setting up BIO CNG plants in India. Utkarsh Gupta, Founder, Gruner Renewable Energy tells in this interview that the company has an acknowledged membership in the Indian Biogas Association and it leverages cutting-edge German technologies to deliver comprehensive solutions in plant setup procedures to companies.

We plan to establish 100 biogas plants by the end of FY23-24

Can you provide a brief overview of your renewable energy production? What types of renewable energy sources does your company utilise or produce?

Our main concentration is on BIO CNG plants and BioCNG pumps, and as active participants in the dynamic BioGas industry, we have had a significant impact on the advancement of BioFuel. Leveraging cutting-edge German technology, our primary competency is in delivering comprehensive solutions that cover every aspect of the plant setup procedures. Having a mission to strengthen India's energy industry, Gruner Renewable proudly relishes an acknowledged membership in the Indian Biogas Association. Additionally, Gruner Renewable is exceptional at putting in high-quality biogas facilities that are known for their cost-effectiveness and intuitive design and transparency in process.

In your view, what are the most significant trends or innovations in the renewable energy sector, and how is your company adapting to them?

At Gruner Renewable Energy, we keenly observe one of the most prominent trends in the energy sector—the growing emphasis on biofuels as a key driver in achieving sustainable energy objectives. Specifically, BioCNG has emerged as a noteworthy renewable energy source with immense potential for curbing carbon emissions and bolstering energy security.

Our dedication at Gruner Renewable Energy centers on advancing every aspect of BioCNG production. This entails thorough project research, meticulous site selection to maximize location advantages, state-of-the-art technology implementation, and efficient storage and utilisation methods aimed at optimising output. We are actively investing in cutting-edge technologies to enhance the efficiency of the anaerobic digestion process, which transforms organic waste into methane-rich biogas.

Furthermore, we recognise the significant trend of integrating renewable energy sources with smart grid technologies. We are acutely aware of the critical importance of grid reliability and flexibility in the context of BioCNG. In response, we are diligently working on innovative solutions to facilitate seamless grid integration. Our approach includes real-time monitoring, the implementation of demand response mechanisms, and the deployment of grid balancing strategies—all designed to maximise the effective utilisation of BioCNG within the broader energy infrastructure.

In addition to these efforts, we are proud to announce our pioneering partnership with BioEnergy Germany, a renowned global expert in Biogas plants. Together, our collaboration is poised to revolutionise India's energy landscape with the establishment of the nation's inaugural Napier Grass BioCNG plant in Lasanpur. This groundbreaking facility is slated to commence operations by the end of November 2023, marking a significant milestone in India's pursuit of sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions.

How does your company mitigate and minimise its environmental footprint? What sustainability practices and efforts are you making towards achieving a carbon-neutral or zero-emissions goal?

Our company's foundation is built on responsibility for the environment and sustainability. By maximising the use of organic waste as the main feedstock for BioCNG generations, we are aligning our practices with the principles of the circular economy. By accomplishing this, we actively contribute to waste minimisation and the safeguarding of precious resources in addition to lowering emission of greenhouse gases.

We consider ourselves fortunate to have been among the earliest companies in India to use Napier Grass as the main feedstock for our BioCNG operations. Our intentions go beyond the simple production of biofuel with each new plant we create. The mission we have is to improve mankind's overall well-being.

To give an example, our Napier Grass BioCNG plant in Maharashtra is evidence of our all-encompassing strategy. It not only serves a trustworthy and clean energy source, but it additionally promotes agricultural sustainability and presents fresh opportunities for rural development. This initiative has the power to boost regional economic growth while generating employment opportunities.

Are you planning to expand into new markets or develop new renewable energy technologies?

Our primarily commitment now lies on the BioCNG market. By the end of the fiscal year 2023–2024, our company plans to have established 100 biogas plants, which is a lofty endeavour. We are pleased to announce that we now have 42 projects underway. Our overriding objective is to generate 1,000 crore rupees in revenue by the end of current fiscal year.

What percentage of energy production comes from each of renewable sources?

We would like to delve into the noteworthy aspects of Napier Grass, which serves as our primary feedstock. Napier Grass distinguishes itself as one of the most promising energy crops, demanding minimal maintenance. Extensive studies have revealed that 20 tons of Napier Grass can yield 1 ton of BIO CNG. The energy potential of Napier Grass may vary, but on average, it can generate approximately 9,000 to 12,000 cubic meters of biogas per hectare per year, which can subsequently be converted into Bio CNG. Moreover, the conversion efficiency from biogas to Bio CNG derived from Napier Grass can range from 70 per cent to 90 per cent, contingent upon the specific technology and purification methods employed.

How do government regulations and policies affect your company's operations and growth in the renewable energy sector?

The bioCNG industry along with the broader subject matter of renewable energy benefit greatly from an array of government policies and regulations that exist in India. We have seen substantial advantages from these initiatives, such the National Biofuel Policy (2018), that offers a variety of incentives for the production of biofuel. These incentives also include tax advantages and funding assistance.

Additionally, there are grants and financial incentives specifically designed for BioCNG facilities to manufacture. These incentives are essential in substantially lowering the capital investment needed to set up BioCNG business operations.

Beyond these, a wide range of government initiatives and tax breaks have been crucial to promoting the expansion and operating ambitions of our organisation.