India adds 2361 MW biomass capacity, 228 MW waste-to-energy projects in last decade: Minister

New Delhi, December 17: India has added 2,361 megawatts of biomass power capacity, 228 megawatts of waste-to-energy capacity and installed 2.88 lakh biogas plants over the last ten years, as part of sustained efforts to promote bioenergy and diversify the country’s renewable energy mix.

The information was shared by minister of state for new and renewable energy Shripad Yesso Naik in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

The minister said it is supporting bioenergy deployment under the National Bioenergy Programme Phase-I, notified in November 2022 with a budget outlay of ₹998 crore for the period from 2022–23 to 2025–26. The programme provides central financial assistance for a range of bioenergy projects across states.

Over the past decade, bioenergy capacity addition has been supported through multiple schemes, including the National Biogas and Manure Management Programme, the New National Biogas and Organic Manure Programme, and schemes promoting grid-interactive biomass power, bagasse cogeneration in sugar mills, and energy generation from urban, industrial and agricultural waste.

The government has also implemented targeted programmes to promote biomass-based cogeneration in sugar mills and other industries, aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

State-wise details of bioenergy installations over the last ten years have been compiled by the ministry, and fresh capacity addition is now being driven under the National Bioenergy Programme Phase-I.

The government said bioenergy plays a key role in supporting clean energy goals while addressing waste management challenges in urban and rural areas. The sector also contributes to rural employment, additional income for farmers and reduced open burning of agricultural residues.