Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the construction of four compressed bio-gas (CBG) plants in Assam as part of his broader push for clean and sustainable energy solutions.
The plants, to be built by Oil India Ltd (OIL), are located in Guwahati, Jorhat, Sivasagar, and Tinsukia.
The virtual event, which Modi presided over from New Delhi, was part of a nationwide groundbreaking ceremony marking the launch of several CBG plants to coincide with Swachh Bharat Diwas, promoting eco-friendly and sustainable energy across the country.
Addressing the virtual gathering, Modi highlighted the transformative role that bio-gas technology is playing in rural India. "Cow dung is bringing changes in our villages.
Hundreds of bio-gas plants are being set up in India's villages now," the Prime Minister said, explaining that cow dung, once seen as a problem for villagers, is now being harnessed to benefit farmers, even when livestock become unproductive due to age or other factors.
As India’s cities and towns grow, the Prime Minister pointed to the increasing waste generation, including emerging forms like e-waste.
"Due to urbanisation, waste generation is increasing. Newer forms of trash such as e-waste are also rising. At this hour, we need new technologies to address this issue," he emphasised.
Modi further urged that future construction should prioritise recycling, and new residential complexes should be designed to generate minimal waste.
The bio-gas plants launched in Assam are part of a broader initiative by Oil India Ltd, working in tandem with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), to establish 25 CBG plants by 2024-25.
These projects are being developed either through Public Sector Unit (PSU) investments or in partnerships with private entrepreneurs.
“As India moves towards its vision of becoming a clean energy leader, the setting up of these CBG plants marks a crucial step forward in achieving a greener and more resilient future,” OIL said in a statement, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable practices while supporting India's energy needs.
The company noted that these bio-gas units will feature advanced zero liquid discharge systems, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
Each plant will process 125 tonnes of municipal solid waste from nearby municipalities daily, converting this into approximately 2 tonnes of compressed bio-gas per day. The produced gas will either be integrated into city gas distribution networks or supplied directly to CNG retailers.
OIL stressed the environmental and economic benefits of the bio-gas initiative, noting that it will contribute to reducing pollution and providing a clean energy alternative.
The project aligns with the Government of India’s Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) initiative and the GOBARdhan scheme, both of which promote the use of biogas as an affordable, clean fuel.
Additionally, the company highlighted that the bio-gas plants will generate significant employment opportunities in local communities, boosting economic growth and improving living standards.
The initiative is also seen as a step towards reducing India’s dependence on imported fuels, thereby strengthening the country’s energy independence.
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