In a significant stride towards bolstering green energy production in Punjab, the state is poised to witness the inauguration of seven Compressed Biogas (CBG) projects by the end of this year. Announcing this, the state New and Renewable Energy Sources Minister Aman Arora said that the projects, with a collective capacity of approximately 79 tons per day (TPD) CBG, are slated to consume over 2.72 lakh tons of paddy straw annually.
Arora, chairing a meeting to review the ongoing projects of the Department alongside New and Renewable Energy Sources’s Secretary Ravi Bhagat, underscored the pivotal role these initiatives play in mitigating the stubble burning crisis while propelling Punjab towards becoming a frontrunner in green and clean energy production.
Highlighting the strides already made, Arora said that four CBG projects, totaling over 85 TPD CBG, have already been commissioned. These projects have successfully utilized around 1.70 lakh tons of paddy straw, effectively addressing the stubble burning issue while advancing the state's commitment to sustainable energy practices.
“Punjab Government’s relentless efforts aim to eliminate stubble burning entirely,” said Arora.
The Minister also highlighted the drafting of a comprehensive Biofuel Policy and the establishment of a Green Hydrogen Policy as crucial steps towards decarbonizing the economy and curbing dependence on fossil fuels. “These measures not only facilitate technological advancement but also enhance regional air quality and diminish greenhouse gas emissions,” he added.
In addition to the CBG projects, Ravi Bhagat informed the Cabinet Minister about the extensive solarization initiatives undertaken by the state. Last year witnessed the installation of solar PV panels on 101 government buildings, with plans to equip an additional 897 buildings with solar panels this year under the supervision of Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA).
