Appraising the availability of biomass residues in India and their bioenergy potential

Biomass produced from agriculture at present provides most energy services in developing nations. In India, enormous quantities of biomass are produced for conversion into valuable energy. Bioenergy production from agricultural leftovers, animal manure, and municipal waste has the potential to meet of the rising need sus-tainable energy. It is a practical and sustainable option since the energy produced from the above mentioned sources can minimise the use of fossil fuels, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and alleviate the effects of climate change. In addition, it can boost marginal and small farmers in terms of income and job opportunities. Evaluating agricultural leftovers, animal manure, and municipal waste as bioenergy resources can provide a method of tapping renewable energy opportunities. It is possible to minimise constraints for using agricultural leftovers, animal manure, and municipal waste, support investment decisions, and maximise the utilisation of biomass resources available. This study is intended to establish the amount of energy demand in India that can be met by using crop residues, animal manure, logging residues, and municipal waste. The annual energy potential of these biomass waste was quantified and assessed in the study. It has been determined that the technical bioenergy potential of these biomass resources is 1.29 x 103 PJ in 2.31 x 104 Mm3 of biogas and 7.79 x 102 PJ in 3.49 x 104 Ml of cellulosic ethanol. However, the country must overcome techno-economic barriers to handle the projects likely to be initiated soon.

Automated summary

Biomass from agricultural production in India has the potential to convert into valuable energy sources, meeting sustainable energy needs and benefiting farmers. The study shows significant bioenergy potential of agricultural leftovers, animal manure, and municipal waste, but challenges in overcoming techno-economic barriers remain.