- India is preparing to launch a new biogas support programme called “Sampoorn” to boost domestic compressed biogas (CBG) production.
- The policy is expected to offer Higher guaranteed purchase prices for CBG & Financial incentives and subsidies for setting up new biogas plants.
- The government aims to increase the number of operational CBG plants from around 200 currently to nearly 700 in the coming years.
- Biogas is considered a carbon-negative fuel as it captures emissions and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
- India currently imports about 50% of its natural gas requirements, making energy security a key priority.
- The government aims to increase biogas blending in natural gas supplies to 5% by FY2029.
- The new policy is expected to improve project economics and attract greater private investment.
- The programme is also aimed at reducing crop residue burning, a major contributor to seasonal air pollution in northern India.
- Incentives will support projects using:
- Agricultural residue.
- Food waste.
- Materials sourced through agencies such as the Food Corporation of India (FCI).
- Earlier targets for biogas expansion fell short due to:
– Financing challenges.
– Feedstock availability issues.
– Commercial viability concerns.