Guwahati: Oil India Limited (OIL) is advancing India's green energy goals with a new set of Compressed Biogas (CBG) projects in Assam, which seek to achieve both environmental sustainability and regional economic prosperity. Following directives from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), OIL will build 25 CBG facilities nationwide, heavily emphasizing the Northeastern region. On Swachh Bharat Diwas, October 2, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the inauguration ceremony for four CBG establishments in Assam, which would convert waste into sustainable biogas in Guwahati, Jorhat, Sivsagar and Tinsukia.
These plants are part of OIL's long-term vision to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 and bolster India's path to energy independence. The CBG units are planned to process 125 tons of garbage per day, creating two tonnes of biogas that will be used to fuel local CNG networks.
During an exclusive interview with Pankhi Sarma for Business North East (BNE), the spokesperson of Oil India Limited, shared how these projects are transforming India's energy landscape and assisting local people.
Here are the excerpts:
Interview Q&A:
BNE: Please tell us how Oil India Limited (OIL) plans to achieve India's ambitious goal of achieving energy independence by 2047 and net-zero emissions by 2070.
OIL Spokesperson: As per Prime Minister Narendra Modi's clarion call, India aims to achieve energy independence by 2047 and net-zero emissions by 2070 by leveraging indigenous alternative energy sources. OIL (Oil India Limited) has developed a strategic plan to diversify into alternative energy, targeting net zero by 2040 while reaping economic, environmental, and social benefits.
BNE: How is OIL integrating the Indian Government's energy transition goals into its strategic initiatives?
OIL Spokesperson: Conforming with the Central Government's vision, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) has directed OIL to establish 25 Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants. OIL plans to develop these plants nationwide particularly focusing on the Northeastern region. These plants will produce CBG using Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and are planned to be established in Guwahati, Jorhat, Sivsagar, and Tinsukia. They are part of our expansion into renewable energy, specifically focusing on supporting NE's sustainable development.
It's a significant step in India's pursuit of a sustainable, greener future promoting a cleaner environment and contributing directly to the government's targets of energy diversification and self-reliance.
BNE: What is the production capacity and environmental impact of these CBG plants?
OIL Spokesperson: Each CBG plant has been designed to process up to 125 tonnes of waste daily, generating approximately 2 tonnes of biogas. This process employs advanced zero liquid discharge systems, ensuring sustainable operations. The generated biogas can be integrated into local gas distribution networks or supplied to CNG retailers. This not only provides a cleaner energy alternative but also contributes to pollution reduction. The project will take nearly about two years to be commissioned.
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BNE: How do these initiatives contribute to the local communities and India’s economy?
OIL Spokesperson: Setting up Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants generates employment opportunities for locals and helps raise their living standards. Moreover, these plants reduce reliance on imported fuels and enhance energy independence, marking a critical milestone in India’s journey toward a sustainable and self-reliant future aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. This strengthens India’s energy independence while fostering economic growth and sustainability on a local level.
BNE: How does the CBG plant initiative reflect India’s commitment to global climate action?
OIL Spokesperson: The CBG plant initiative underscores India’s proactive role in addressing global climate change. The plants support cleaner energy usage and enhance environmental conservation efforts, setting a positive example on the international stage by contributing to its leadership in global climate action.